Abstract

In the present study, crude methanolic extract and its subsequent solvent fractions of Viola betonicifolia were tested against the adult species Pheretima posthuma and Juvenile species (Cephalobus litoralis and Helicotylenchus indicus) of worms. The anthelmintic activity of ethyl acetate and chloroform fractions was very significant against P. posthuma, in a concentration dependent manner (100 mg/ml), mortality time was 42 and 58 min, respectively. Mortality of chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions was 66 and 62% after 48 h against C. littoralis, respectively. Nevertheless, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions exhibited 49 and 57% mortality against H. indicus. It is concluded that the extracts of V. betonicifolia could be a significant natural source of vermicides.

Key words: Viola betonicifolia, Pheretima posthuma, Cephalobus litoralis, Helicotylenchus indicus.