Abstract

OCULAR ANTIMICROBIAL POTENTIAL OF PITHECELLOBIUM DULCE LEAVES: A PHYTOPHARMACOLOGICAL INSIGHT

Mohammedkabeer A.*, Dr. C. Jothimanivannan, Sathya Jasmine A., Kiruthika P., JothiPrakash P, Sundhar S.

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Abstract

The increasing incidence of ocular infections and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance have prompted a renewed interest in plantbased therapeutics for eye care. Pithecellobium dulce, commonly known as Manila tamarind, is a tropical plant traditionally used in folk medicine for various ailments. Recent phytochemical and pharmacological investigations have revealed the therapeutic promise of its leaves, particularly in antimicrobial applications. This review explores the potential of P. dulce leaf extracts in managing ocular infections, emphasizing their bioactive constituents, mechanisms of antimicrobial action, and compatibility with ocular tissues. The leaves of P. dulce are rich in flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and glycosides—all known for their antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, and antioxidant activities. These compounds exert bactericidal and bacteriostatic effects by disrupting microbial cell walls, inhibiting protein synthesis, and generating reactive oxygen species. The review also compiles evidence from in vitro studies where P. dulce leaf extracts exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against ocular pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. In addition to its antimicrobial effects, the anti-inflammatory properties of the leaf extract may help reduce ocular inflammation associated with infections like conjunctivitis and blepharitis. The safety and biocompatibility of herbal extracts in ophthalmic formulations are also addressed, considering the delicate nature of the ocular surface. Moreover, the integration of P. dulce in novel drug delivery systems such as ocular gels, eye drops, and nanoparticlebased carriers is discussed, presenting opportunities for enhanced bioavailability and sustained release. This review emphasizes the need for clinical trials and formulation optimization to translate the pharmacological benefits of P. dulce into mainstream ophthalmic therapies. In conclusion, Pithecellobium dulce leaf extract represents a promising, underexplored phytopharmaceutical candidate for developing herbal treatments against ocular infections. Its rich phytochemistry, proven antimicrobial properties, and potential for safe ocular use make it a valuable alternative in the fight against antibiotic-resistant eye pathogens.

Keywords: Pithecellobium dulce, Ocular infections, Antimicrobial activity, Phytopharmacology, Herbal eye drops, Conjunctivitis, Traditional medicine.