Antimicrobial and antitumor properties of the leaves of Ficus religiosa

The aqueous, methanol and chloroform extracts of the leaves of Ficus religiosa were critically evaluated for their antibacterial and antitumor activities. These extracts showed an elevated level of antibacterial activity and a reduced antifungal activity. The most sensitive organisms S. typhi, R vulgaris, S. typhimurium and E. coli were inhibited even at lowest concentrations of the chloroform extracts. Aqueous and methanolic extracts were found to be less active. The antitumor activity conducted by crown gall potato disc assay proved that all the three extracts are efficient in reducing the tumors formed.