Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research (ISSN : 0975-7384)

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Original Articles: 2010 Vol: 2 Issue: 4

Antimicrobial Activity of Earthworm Extracts

Abstract

Earthworm plays a major role in the proper functioning of the soil ecosystem. It acts as scavenger and helps in recycling of dead and decayed plant material by feeding on them. Earthworm increases the soil fertility and is often referred to as a farmer’s friend. Earthworms have been used in medicine for various remedies. In the present investigation, various solvent extracts of an earthworm, Eudrilus eugeniae were prepared and antimicrobial activity of these extracts were determined by well diffusion method. It was found that 95% ethanol extract of earthworm was potent antibacterial agent against Streptococcus pyogens and antifungal agent against Candida albicans. Petroleum ether extract showed maximum potency against Staphylococcus aureus in comparison to Streptococcus pyogens. Petroleum ether extract was found to possess maximum antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger in comparison to Candida albicans. Against E. coli, ethanol and petroleum ether extract possessed least antibacterial activity. Phosphate buffer extract of earthworm possessed no potency against bacterial and fungal cultures. These studies may lead to the formulation of new antimicrobial drug.