Abstract

Euphorbia antiquorum L. is conspicuously and regularly represented in the flora of the Rayalaseema region,
A.P, India and is used as insecticide, fungicide, anti-hyperglycaemic, cytotoxic agent, for curing skin infections,
applied to cosmetic injuries and wounds for speedy healing. E. antiquorum containing latex, distributed in
laticiferous tissue. Its extracts containing flavonoids as the principal physiologically active constituents; this
class of natural products is becoming the subject of antibacterial activity. The present study is focussed to
isolate and quantify latex from phylloclades, roots of E. antiquorum and investigate their antibacterial
activities. Antibacterial activity was tested against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus
vulgaris, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus anginosus and Bacillus subtilis. Disc method of Bauer-Kirby was
found that, flavonoids of E. antiquorum latex were effective against G+ve and G-ve bacterial species. 30 μg/ml
concentration of extract is sufficient to constrain bacterial growth. Qualitative analysis of flavonoids and
quantitative analysis of total flavonoids has been carried out and the studies revealed that the pure latex of E.
antiquorum contained 7.54 mg/g total flavonoid.