Antimicrobial activity, chemical compositions and proximate analysis of ixora coccinea l. leaves on some clinical pathogens

Plants derived bioactive compounds have been the centre of recent research owing to their health promoting effects. An attempt was made in evaluating the phytochemical, minerals, proximate and anti-microbial activity of Ixora coccinea L. The phytochemicals, minerals and proximate analyseswere investigated using standard methods. Anti-microbial activity was determined by standard agar well diffusion method. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, oxalate, phenol, anthraquinone and phytate. The minerals analysis revealed the presence of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, copper, manganese and phosphorus. Highest mineral content was recorded in magnesium (21.65 mg/100g). Proximate analysis showed the presence of ash (10.3%), moisture (7.10%), protein (16.45%), fat (6.10%), fibre (10.99%) and carbohydrate (40.20%). The antimicrobial analysis revealed the activity of the plant against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Samonella typhi, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It showed its highest potency against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results showed that substantial amounts of nutrients, minerals and phytochemicals present in I. coccinea leaves would contribute greatly to the human nutritional requirements and give adequate protection against various diseases associated with the tested organisms.