A REVIEW ON IN VITRO ANTIFUNGAL ACTIVITY OF MORINDA TINCTORIA ROXB AGAINST SELECTED FUNGAL PATHOGENS

Morinda tinctoria Roxb. (noni / Indian mulberry) belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is an important medicinal plant used in Indian medical systems. The study aims to collect and evaluate the pharmacognostical, phytochemical, and pharmacological properties of Morinda tinctoria leaves. The plant has significant ethnomedical value and is traditionally used to treat inflammation, diabetes, infections, wounds, gastrointestinal issues, and skin illnesses. Leaf extracts were prepared using solvents of increasing polarity: aqueous, ethanolic, acetone, n-hexane, benzene, and ethyl acetate. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, saponins, and anthraquinones. The results support traditional claims and indicate promising therapeutic potential, warranting further investigation for pharmaceutical use. In-vitro studies demonstrated antimicrobial and antifungal activities; literature reports antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective, anticonvulsant, and wound-healing properties.