Evaluation of Anthelmintic Activity of Lichen Usnea Undulata Stirt. (Parmeliaceae)

Abstract

Lichen compounds are also known to have biological activities. Traditionally Usnea used as antibacterial, antidermatophytic and anthelmintic. The present study was carried to determine the anthelmintic activity of a macrolichen Usnea undulata Stirt. (Parmeliaceae) collected from forest area of Chikmagalur district. The lichen was powdered and extracted sequentially using solvents of increasing polarity viz., acetone, methanol and water. Thin layer chromatography showed the presence of usnic acid. The anthelmintic assay was performed on Pheretima pasthuma. High inhibitory potential was observed in case of acetone extract. Inhibitory effect could be ascribed to the bioactive secondary metabolites, mainly Usnic acid present in the lichen. Purification of bioactive principles is to be conducted.