M. MINI AND P.M. BEEBI RAZEENA
Abstract
Annona muricata Linn belongs to Annonaceae family called soursop tree (vernacular name- Mullenchakka or Lakshmana Pazham) and can grow in low elevated areas of Kerala. The present study focuses on the bioefficacy and cytotoxic activity of the leaf of this plant on root meristem of Allium cepa Linn. In vitro studies of aqueous leaf extract showed inhibition of the growth of Aspergillus flavus Link; Fr, Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus niger Van Tieghem. The cytotoxic study of different concentration of Annona muricata leaf extract (90%, 80%) on root meristem of Allium cepa Linn showed chromosome aberrations (chromosome bridges, rings, lagging and fragmentations, diagonal Anaphase and metaphase, vacuolated and sickle shaped nucleus, ball metaphase and Micronuclei). In 60% and control have no chromosomal aberrations..This study again proved this plant can prevent the pathological malignancy of the cells. Nowadays this plant is endangered and threatened. At these circumstances this plant must protect and conserve for the welfare of human beings.