In silico and in vitro anthelmintic activity of β-sitosterol isolated from rhizomes of Hedychium spicatum Buch.-Ham.

Abstract

Hedychium spicatum Buch.-Ham. (Family-Zingiberaceae), commonly known as spiked ginger lily, is found in the entire Himalayan region. The rhizomes are reported to be used as tranquilizer, hypotensive, antispasmodic, CNS depressant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal, pediculicidal, cytotoxic and anthelmintics. The present study is an attempt to explore the anthelmintic activity of β-sitosterol isolated from the rhizomes of H. spicatum by molecular docking with tubulin and in vitro activity against adult Indian earthworms, Pheretima posthuma. β-sitosterol binds very efficiently within the active pocket of tubulin which is better when compared to orientation of standard drug, Piperazine citrate. These results were also confirmed with in vitro study. The time taken for each worm for paralysis and death were determined. The time taken for paralysis and death with β-sitosterol at 40 mg/mL was comparable to standard Piperazine citrate.