Anthelmintic activity of Ficus benghalensis

Th e World Health Organization estimates that a staggering two billion people harbor parasitic worm infections. Parasitic worms also infect livestock and crops, aff ecting food production with a resultant economic impact. Despite this prevalence of parasitic infections, the research on anthelmintic drug is poor. As per WHO, only few drugs are frequently used in the treatment of helminthes in human beings. Anthelmintics from the natural sources may play a key role in the treatment of these parasite infections. In view of this, an attempt has been made to study the anthelmintic activity of roots of Ficus benghalensis. In this study, methanolic, aqueous, chloroform, petroleum ether extracts were used and studied for paralysis and death of earthworm. All the extracts were found not only to paralyze (Vermifuge) but also to kill the earthworms (Vermicidal). Th e aqueous and methanolic extract was found to be more eff ective to execute the earthworm. Key words: Anthelmintic activity, Ficus benghalensis, pheretima posthuma