Exploring quality control standards and potential antibacterial property of different extracts of the root of Physalis minima L.

Physalis minima (Fam. Solanaceae) is well known (local name: Pokmou) ethno-medicinal plant in north-east part of India. Traditional knowledge claimed that aerial parts of this plant has medicinal values like antiulcer, anti inflammatory, antimalarial, antidiabetic, antimicrobial etc but there are lack of scientific evidence to support these properties. The aim of study is to established standard monograph of the root of Physalis minima  and  also evaluate antibacterial property from root extracts against selected Gram (+ve) (S. aureus) and Gram (–ve) (E. coli) bacteria strains by agar disc diffusion method. Morphological study revealed that root is tap root, greyish white in colour, slightly sweet taste. Microscopic evaluation showed the presence of phelloderm, cambium, medullary rays across the xylem and phloem, starch grains. Physicochemical parameters were found to be within limit. Different extracts have shown the existence of metabolites viz. Alkaloids, steroids, tannin, flavonoids. Phytoconstituents like flavonoid, phenolic and tannin were quantified. Pet ether and ethanol extracts at 5mg/ml concentration showed remarkable zone of inhibition against Gram (+ve) and Gram (–ve) microorganism. Recent study suggests standardized Physalis minima root contains bioactive compounds mainly flavonoids, tannins possess significant antibacterial potential against both Gram (+ve) and Gram (–ve) microorganism.