The aim of the present study was to evaluate the utilization of Azolla pinnata as potential source of antimicrobial compounds and investigate the antioxidant potential of the fern. Extracts of the fern was prepared using various solvents (ethyl acetate, methanol, chloroform, acetone and water) and preliminary screening was done. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds especially phenols and flavonoids in the extracts. Further antimicrobial activity was carried out using different bacterial and fungal strains.Since the results of phytochemical analysis showed the presence of maximum phytochemicals in the methanolic extract, antioxidant activiy was evaluatd in the methanolic extractof Azolla. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH free radical scavenging assay and FRAP assay. Total phenolic and flavonoid content was estimated by Folin-Ciocalteau and aluminium chloride colorimetric method respectively. Extract of Azolla pinnata showed marked free radical scavenging and reducing potential. The significant antioxidant efficacy of A.pinnata could be attributed to the presence of high phenolic and flavonoid content. Hence the results of the present study suggests the potential of the aquatic pteridophyte as a rich source of antimicrobial compounds which could be exploited against pathogenic microbes and also a powerful antioxidant against oxidative stress.
