Exploring the Microbial Safety of Catharanthus roseus Chloroform Extract in Healthy Vaginal Flora

Abstract

Women often experience occasional vaginal discomfort due to environmental exposures like public toilet use, which may lead to minor microbial imbalance or irritation. This study evaluates the safety and biological profile of a chloroform-based extract of Catharanthus roseus a well-known medicinal plant on beneficial vaginal microflora. Vaginal swabs were collected from 100 healthy women aged 18–50 from Raipur, Chhattisgarh. Three dominant bacterial isolates Bacillus velezensis, Alkalihalobacillus clausii, and Bacillus tropicus were identified via 16S rRNA sequencing and selected for further testing. Leaves of Catharanthus roseus were extracted using Soxhlet apparatus with chloroform and analyzed using TLC, FTIR, HPLC, and NMR to determine phytochemical content and functional group composition. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenols, saponins, and proteins. HPLC detected ferulic acid and atropine, while NMR and FTIR confirmed aromatic, hydroxyl, and methoxy functional groups. Antimicrobial activity tested through agar well diffusion and MIC assays showed only mild inhibition against all three isolates, indicating the extract does not harm beneficial vaginal bacteria. Additionally, the extract exhibited strong antioxidant potential, with a DPPH scavenging activity of up to 47.85%. The chloroform extract of Catharanthus roseus appears to be microbiota-friendly while offering antioxidant and phytoprotective benefits. These findings support its possible use in gentle, herbal-based formulations aimed at maintaining vaginal comfort and microbial balance in women exposed to non-ideal hygiene conditions.