Botanical study of Meryta denhamii Seem. and its antihelminthic activity against Fasciola gigantica

The anthelmintic activity of the ethanolic extracts of stems and leaves of Meryta denhamii Seem. against adult liver flukes "Fasciola gigantica" was studied in vitro. Although leaves extract was inactive, stems extract exhibited anthelmintic activity and recorded LC50 and LC90 values, 16 and 26 gm/l respectively. The mode of action of the ethanolic extract of the stems on the adult flukes was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Tegumental sloughing, loss of spines and deformity of suckers were observed. These damages are responsible for the vermicidal effect of the ethanolic extract of the stems. The saponin contents of the stems (4.25%) and leaves (2.45%) were determined using haemolytic index. The plant was identified based on the macro and micromorphological features of the stem and leaf.