Abstract

Pericarp of unripe areca fruit-a potent antimicrobial source

Author(s): T.R.Prashith Kekuda, Meera B.Aiyar, T.R.Rohini, K.V.Nayana, Nethravathi Pai, N.S.Anitha

Areca catechu is grown for the important seed crop. The present study highlights the antimicrobial activity of steamdistillates of pericarp of areca fruit. The pericarp of unripe areca fruitswere collected, cut into small pieces and subjected to steam distillation. The steam distillate obtained was subjected to antibacterial activity against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria in liquid media.Antifungal activity of steamdistillate was carried employing poison food technique.Among bacteria tested, more inhibition was observed in case of E. coli followed by other bacteria.All tested fungi were found to be sensitive among which A. terreus was least affected. It can be concluded that antimicrobial activity of steam distillate is due to active constituents present in the distillate. The steam distillate could be employed in the treatment of infections caused by enteric bacteria, food poisoning bacteria and opportunistic fungi. Further experiments should be conducted in animal models to validate the activity in vivo.