Antimicrobial, toxicity, and anti-inflammatory activities of Buddleja perfoliata Kunth

Abstract

Background: Buddleja perfoliata Kunth is an endemic plant in Mexico. It has been used in traditional medicine as a topical antiseptic and diuretic against headaches, colds, tuberculosis, heart disease, dizziness, and nervousness. Aim of the study: To investigate the bioactivities of B. perfoliata to support its use in traditional medicine as an antiseptic and against colds and tuberculosis. Materials and methods: Chloroform extracts and fractions obtained from different sub-extracts of the aerial parts of B. perfoliata were tested for their antimicrobial activity against a panel of Gram-positive, -negative, and fungi. Ex vivo (human-derived monocytic THP-1 cells) and in vivo (brine shrimp) models were used to test the toxicity of the chloroform extracts and fractions. Also, the inflammatory response, including pro-inflammatory (IL-6 and TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines, were evaluated using the THP-1 model. Results: This study revealed that B. perfoliata extracts and fractions had antimicrobial activity against various pathogens, showing significant activity with MICs ranging between 100 to 200 µg/ml. In addition, extracts and fractions showed anti-inflammatory properties, lowering IL-6 while increasing IL-10 secretions, respectively. Finally, a cytotoxic effect was discovered against the THP-1 cell line with an LC50 less than 20 µg/ml, suggesting a potential use in treating cancer. Conclusions: Our study showed that the chloroform extracts and fractions of the aerial parts of B. perfoliata possessed antimicrobial activities and anti-inflammatory properties.

Keywords

• Buddleja perfoliata
• Scrofulariacea
• Antimicrobial activity
• Toxic activity
• Anti-inflammatory activity