Phytochemical profiling and antimicrobial evaluation of Digitaria ciliaris (Retz.) Koeler (Poaceae)

Digitaria ciliaris (Retz.) Koeler, an important fodder grass species, was investigated for its bioactive compounds and antimicrobial activity. Qualitative phytochemical screening of whole-plant extracts (n-hexane, ethanol, and aqueous) revealed the consistent presence of tannins and saponins across all extracts, with reducing sugars detected exclusively in the ethanolic extract, while flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics, steroids, alkaloids, and carbonyl compounds were absent. Antimicrobial activity was assessed by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the hydroethanolic extract against Escherichia coli, which exhibited complete growth inhibition at 100 mg/mL. The findings highlight the therapeutic potential of D. ciliaris, supporting its dual role as a valuable fodder resource and a source of bioactive compounds with antibacterial properties, suggesting its relevance in livestock health management and future pharmacological studies.