Phytochemistry, Antimicrobial, Analgesic, Antibiofilm, Diuretic Activities, and Acute Toxicity of Bark Extracts From Three Plants (Khaya senegalensis, Ocimum americanum, and Cassytha filiformis) Collected in Benin.

Abstract

In Beninese traditional medicine, <i>Khaya senegalensis</i>, <i>Ocimum americanum</i>, and <i>Cassytha filiformis</i> are commonly used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs). This study aimed to evaluate their phytochemical composition, antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activities, analgesic and diuretic effects, and acute toxicity. Qualitative phytochemical screening was performed using staining and precipitation methods. Plant materials were extracted with 70% ethanol, yielding a hydroethanolic extract. Antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant uropathogenic strains was assessed using disk diffusion and broth microdilution assays. Anti-biofilm effects were evaluated with a colorimetric method. Analgesic and diuretic activities were tested in vivo in Wistar rats. Acute toxicity of hydroethanolic extracts was assessed over 14 days following OECD guidelines. Phytochemical analysis revealed alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, saponosides, tannins, reducing compounds, and mucilage in various plant parts. All extracts exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococci and uropathogenic Enterobacteria, with inhibition zones of 13.8-21.2 mm and MICs of 3.5-9 mg/mL. Both aqueous and hydroethanolic extracts reduced bacterial biofilm formation to varying degrees. At 200 mg/kg, the hydroethanolic extracts significantly reduced acetic acid-induced pain. <i>K. senegalensis</i> and <i>C. filiformis</i> exhibited diuretic activity comparable to furosemide. No toxic effects were observed at 2000 mg/kg. The antimicrobial, anti-biofilm, analgesic, and diuretic properties of these plants support their use in managing UTIs. Their favorable acute toxicity profile further highlights their therapeutic potential and supports the development of improved traditional medicines.