Investigation of Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties of Bidens biternata

Being a part of Chinese medicine and western herbalism, Bidens biternata is highly medicinal, used to cure almost 26 diseases including some dreadful skin and lung infections. The present study was conducted to evaluate phytochemical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities of extracts obtained from B. biternata. The whole plant was powdered, extracted with methanol and chloroform and subjected to qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening. Extracts were subjected to antibacterial activities through agar well and paper disc diffusion method as well as antifungal activities through agar tube dilution method. Antioxidant analysis was done by DPPH, reducing power and phosphomolybdenum assay. Phytochemical analysis indicated the presence of alkaloids (1.13mgg(-1)), flavanoids (0.39mgg(-1)), phenols (0.17mgg(-1)) and tannins (1.32mgg(-1)). Both plant extract showed substantial antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. In conclusion B. biternata appeared as an important source for the discovery of new antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds. [GRAPHICS]