In vitro experiments with Centella asiatica: investigation to elucidate the effect of an indigenously prepared powder of this plant on the acid-fastness and viability of M. tuberculosis.

ABSTRACT

The herb Centella asiatica (Linn.), found throughout India, is acclaimed to have medicinal properties and has been used in leprosy patients from very early times. It is considered that the active compound of this herb, called asiaticoside, probably acts on the waxy covering of M. leprae. The in vitro effect of an indigenously produced dry powder of Centella asiatica (CA) on the acid-fastness and viability of M. tuberculosis was investigated in the present study. The results indicate that CA may not have any direct action on the acid-fastness or viability of M.tuberculosis H37Rv in vitro. Further studies using purified asiaticoside of the plant or in vivo studies are required.