Phytochemical and pharmacological studies on Mikania micrantha H.B.K. (Asteraceae)

Asteraceae is one of the largest families of Angiospermae, and contains the Mikania genus. Several species of this family contain polyacetylenic and thiophenic compounds which are used as taxonomic markers. Also, their phototoxic activity acts as plant defense mechanism. In this paper we report the absence of these compounds in Mikania micrantha.We also describe the composition of the volatile oil from the seeds and inflorescence in the species. Linalool and α-pinene were the main components of this M. micrantha’s essential oil. This study tested the ability of extracts of Mikania micrantha to inhibit the mouse ear inflammation in response to topical application of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). The antibacterial activity of extracts was also evaluated against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli. Ethyl acetate extracts of this plant exhibited significant antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, it could be used as a medicinal plant.