Antimicrobial, toxicity, and anti-inflammatory activities of Buddleja perfoliata Kunth

Buddleja perfoliata Kunth is an endemic plant in Mexico. It has been used in traditional medicine as a topical antiseptic and diuretic against headaches, colds, tuberculosis, heart disease, dizziness, and nervousness. To investigate the bioactivities of B. perfoliata to support its use in traditional medicine as an antiseptic and against colds and tuberculosis. Chloroform extracts and fractions obtained from different sub-extracts of the aerial parts of B. perfoliata were tested for their antimicrobial activity against a panel of Gram-positive, -negative, and fungi. Ex vivo (human-derived monocytic THP-1 cells) and in vivo (brine shrimp) models were used to test the toxicity of the chloroform extracts and fractions. Also, the inflammatory response, including pro-inflammatory (IL-6 and TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines, were evaluated using the THP-1 model. This study revealed that B. perfoliata extracts and fractions had antimicrobial activity against various pathogens, showing significant activity with MICs ranging between 100 to 200 µg/ml. In addition, extracts and fractions showed anti-inflammatory properties, lowering IL-6 while increasing IL-10 secretions, respectively. Finally, a cytotoxic effect was discovered against the THP-1 cell line with an LC50 less than 20 µg/ml, suggesting a potential use in treating cancer. Our study showed that the chloroform extracts and fractions of the aerial parts of B. perfoliata possessed antimicrobial activities and anti-inflammatory properties.