Antibacterial potential of extracts of leaves of Parrotia persica

Ethanol, methanol, chloroform, petroleum ether and aqueous extracts of leaves ofParrotia persica were evaluated for antibacterial activity. The zone of inhibition varied from 13 to 22 mm. The highest inhibit-tion was obtained with methanol and ethanol. Chloroform and petroleum ether extracts did not show any activity. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of the methanol extract for the test bacteria ranged between 3.12 and 6.25 mg/ml and that of ethanol extract ranged between 6.25 and 12.5 mg/ml. The results scientifically validate the use of this plant in the traditional medicine of Iran. Key words: Parrotia persica, antibacterial activity, methanol extract, traditional medicine.