Evaluation of the effect of a plant alkaloid [berberin derived from berberis aristata] on trichomonas vaginalis in vitro

Berberine is a quaternary alkaloid derived from the plant Berberis aristata having antibanterial, antiamoebic, antifungal, antihelminthic, leishmanicidal and tuberculostatic properties. The effect of berberine sulphate salt on the growth of Trichomonas vaginalis in vitro was compared to the efficacy of metronidazole as a reference drug. Results showed that berberine sulphate was comparable to metronidazole as regards potency with the advantage of being more safe and possible replacement in metronidazole resistant cases