Evaluation of Aqueous Extract of Eclipta alba Leaves for Preservative Potential Against Fusarium Species

An aqueous extract of the leaves of Eclipta alba (Astraceae) was obtained by cold maceration process and tested for it antimicrobial activity against Fusarium species to ascertain preservative potential in food products. The screening was performed against Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium subglutinans by agar plate disc diffusion method at 50 µg/ml and 100 µg/ml concentrations. The results were interpreted by Kirby-Bauer standard and indicated that the extract showed significant antimicrobial property against Fusarium species, however, predominant activity was found against Fusarium oxysporum.