Chemical profile and antimicrobial activity of Cymbopogon citratus leaves.

Abstract

Chemical composition and antibacterial activity of aqueous extract of Cymbopogon citratus leaves were studied. Moisture, Crude protein, Crude fibre and Carbohydrate contents were 12.36%, 15.68%, 27.72% and 29.58% respectively. Phosphorus was found to be the most abundant (15.58mg/100g) followed by Potassium (8.60mg/100g). Zinc an important microelement was present in considerable amount (0.93mg/100g). Lead and Chromium which are toxic at low concentrations were not detected. Phytate and Oxalate contents were 0.48±0.02 and 0.48±0.05mg/g respectively. Terpenoid, Cardiac glycosides and Phenol were also present. Antimicrobial activities of aqueous and ethanol extract of Cymbopogon citratus leaves were compared against four bacteria by disc diffusion method. Both extracts were found to exhibit selective inhibition against the isolates. Ethanol extract exhibited high inhibitory activity against all the tested bacteria in order of sensitivity as Staphylococcus aureus>Salmonella typhi>Bacillus aureus>Escherichia coli, while aqueous extract was more active against Salmonella typhi, at the tested concentrations. In view of the nutrient and antinutrient contents determined, Cymbopogon citratus leaves could be considered safe and good as a therapeutic agent in traditional medicine practice and as dietary supplements.