Priya S Rao, Sheth Navinchandra Ra and K. N Jayaveerab
Helminthic infections are among the most common infections affecting a large sector of the world’s population. Various concentrations of the essential oil of leaves of Pimenta dioica (Linn.) Merill, Family: Myrtaceae, collected in summer during months of January to May (AOS1 - 5) from South Canara district, Karnataka, India were studied for their in vitro anthelmintic potential against Pheritima posthuma (Earth worm). The helminthes were found to be more susceptible to the oil sample AOS4 when compared to Albendazole standard. Variation in the activity was noted based upon the month of collection which may be due to the changes in the chemical constituents. The present investigation throws light on the versatile use of allspice leaf essential oil against helminthes, which indicates that the leaf can be used in culinary practices providing additional health benefits.
