Comparative Study of Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antioxidant Activity of Bitter Apple (Citrullus colocynthis) Plant Parts in Methanol and n_Hexane

Abstract

Background:

 Citrullus colocynthis (Linn.) Schrad (CCT) which belongs to the family of Cucurbitaceae is used for many important medicinal purposes. In this study we have made the extracts with different parts of the plant in n-hexane, methanol extracts and investigated its in vitro activity against fungus and bacteria and also its antioxidant activity.

Methodology:

           The collected sample of C. colocynthis and their different parts (Fruit, Leaves, Stem & Seed) were soaked into n-hexane and methanol solvent. In this experiment we used 12 bacterial and 4 fungal strains, Citrullus colocynthis n-hexane methanol extracts were tested against it. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the compound was determined using broth micro dilution method. The antibacterial and anti-oxidant property and inhibition effect of fungal biomass is determined during this process. Result:

Extracts showed antibacterial activity against almost all tested bacteria. C. colocynthis was most effective against S. aureus. Anti-fungal activity found strong against A. flavus and Rhizopus while A. Niger and S. cerevisiae show no activity. The fruit extract showed the maximum antioxidant and free radical scavenging ability.  

 Conclusion:

The result of experiment shows that this extract can be used for the control of bacterial & fungal diseases as an alternative treatment to the chemical additives. Antioxidant property of the plant is the additional advantage of using the plant as a medicine.