The Schiff base (C=N double bond) is synthesized by the reaction of amine and carbonyl compound (aldehydes or ketone). Schiff base are multilateral ligand and offer a resilient series of ligand, who capable to co-ordinate with different metals. The Schiff base, strong candidate in medicinal field as a drug because they exhibit activity against various microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and cancer cells etc.. The Schiff base and its iron complexes show biological activity like antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antileishmanial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, radical-scavenging activity and anticancer etc. The coordination of metal with Schiff base enhances the biological activity of Schiff bases. These synthesized Schiff base and metal complexes, characterized by various spectroscopic and analytical techniques. At present time, these complexes are highly demanding in medicinal field due to its effective activity against cancer cells and microorganisms. This review mainly aims to provide an extensive overview of the various methods used for the preparation of Schiff bases and Schiff base metal complexes, characterization with their biological activities.

Keywords : Microorganism, Multilateral Ligand, Antioxidant.