Mirabilis jalapa: Phytochemical screening and antistress activity of methanolic leaf extract

Mirabilis jalapa (M. jalapa) is widely used as a traditional medicine in the treatment of various ailments. In the present study we aimed to evaluate the phytochemical constituents and anti-stress activity of the methanolic extract of aerial parts of M. jalapa. The extract was screened for preliminary phytochemical tests. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, and saponins. This is one of the first studies reporting the anti-stress property of M. jalapa using Drosophila melanogaster where different groups were assayed for stress related marker enzymes like SOD and CAT. The activity in stress induced flies has increased compared to that of control flies. After incorporation of
the plant extract there was reduction in level of these defensive enzymes there by increased the ability to scavenge ROS reducing the free radical concentration in the stress induced flies. Thus, M. jalapa may have anti-stress property.