Investigation of phytochemical and pharmacological assessment of ethanol extract of Stenochlaena palustris- an edible fern of Sundarbans

Stenochlaena palustris is a widely found fern in mangrove forests and other areas of different countries over the world. This plant has many uses in traditional medicine of many countries. This study was conducted on its leaves extract to investigate its different phytochemical and pharmacological properties based on its local medicinal uses. Phytochemical screening indicated the presence of different secondary metabolites in this plant. On silica coated TLC plates, the extract exhibited the presence of different antioxidative compounds. Total phenolic, flavonoid and tannin contents were determined (97 mg GAE/g, 90 mg QE/g and 23 mg GAE/g, respectively). This extract also scavenged DPPH, hydrogen peroxide and superoxide radicals (SC50 = 80, 158 and 236 μg/ml, respectively). It also showed ferric ion reducing capability (RC50 =166 μg/ml). This plant showed significant antihyperglycemic, peripheral analgesic (acetic acid induced), anti-inflammatory (formaldehyde induced) and laxative activities in mice. This plant also showed little cytotoxic activity in brine shrimp lethality bioassay. These results are also compared with respective standard drugs and our findings justified its traditional usage.