Anthelmintic resistance modifying properties of extracts of Cyperus difformis L. (Cyperiaceae)

Abstract

Background: Resistance by parasites to anthelmintic drugs is known to be on the increase and little attention is paid to the subject. The aim of study was to determine the anthelmintic and helminth resistance modifying activities of methanol whole plant Cyperus difformis extract against the adult Indian worm Pherethima posthuma using albendazole, mebendazole and levamisole as reference anthelmintics.

Methods: The worms were exposed to various concentrations of the extracts and reference anthelmintics (albendazole, mebendazole and levamisole) and observed for times for paralysis and death.

Results: The extract exhibited a concentration dependent anthelmintic activity against P. posthuma with a significant (p<0.001) paralysis and death times of 66.67±1.8 and 140.7±2.3 min respectively when the extract concentration was 20 mg/mL compared to the negative control (Ringer’s lactate) group with paralysis and death time above 200 min. In the presence of 1, 2 and 5 mg/mL of the extract the reference anthelmintics (albendazole, mebendazole and levamisole), showed a potentiated activity against the test organism. In the presence of 2 mg/mL of the extract the paralysis and death times of 8 mg/mL albendazole against P. Posthuma were reduced from 41.33±0.33 and 106.67±0.88 min respectively to 33.33±0.88 and 85.67±1.2 min, respectively. Similar results were obtained for mebendazole and levamisole.

Conclusion: The extract had anthelmintic activity against P. posthuma and modified the resistance of the organism to albendazole, mebendazole and levamisole.