Chemotype Analysis and Antimicrobial Activities of Essential Oils from Fresh and Sun-Dried Berries of Piper guineense (Schum. and Thom)

Abstract

Plants derived products have been major means of sustenance for mankind through ages. Plants′ volatile components also known essential oils have been used in different applications by man especially as fragrance and in the treatment of diseases. In addition, the bioactivity of essential oils has been explored in food preservation and in medicine, especially in aromatherapy [1-6]. Piper guineensis (Schum. and Thom) commonly known as 'Iyere' in Southwest Nigeria is a plant from the family Piperaceae [7,8]. The genus, Piper is native to West African sub region [9]. In parts of Nigeria, it is used in traditional medicines and as ingredient in soup preparations [10,11]. In some parts of the country, especially among the 'Igbo' speaking population, it is used to enhance quick delivery of new born babies by pregnant women [12,13]. Piper guineense essential oils are also used