Comparison of the phytochemical characteristics of Batis maritima with traditional uses

Batis maritima, commonly referred to as Saltwort, is a halophyte found in coastal regions of various parts of North America, South America and Africa. It has historically been used in traditional medicine in the treatment of ailments such as eczema and cutaneous infections, among others. Since many of these ailments are known to be caused by fungal and bacterial pathogens, it is highly likely that extracts of B. maritima possesses strong antimicrobial properties, and, as such, may contain phytochemicals which have been known to display these phytochemical properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to perform a phytochemical screening of alcoholic extracts of B. maritima leaves and compare these to the traditional uses of the herb.

Alcoholic crude extracts of leaves of the B. maritima shrub were subjected to a series of phytochemical analyses. The results of these analyses indicated the presence of glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, sterols, tannins and terpenoids.

Upon a comparison of the phytochemicals detected and the documented traditional uses of the herb, a correlation may be seen between the two. Many of the phytochemicals present in the extract have been previously noted to be used in medicine to treat many diseases that are similar to those that have historically been treated with B. maritima.