Citrus aurantium L. PEELS AND SEEDS: PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY

Abstract

In this intriguing study, orange peel and seed extracts were tested for their antibacterial effects against pathogens isolated from urinary tract infections and wound swabs. Ethanol and acetone extracts demonstrated potent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. The ethanol extract showed larger inhibition zones against P. mirabilis (27 mm) compared to acetone extract. There was a significant decrease in bacterial growth when acetone extract was used, with the largest inhibition observed E. coli (23 mm). The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, alkaloids, and saponin in the extracts, except for acetone extract lacking terpenoids and saponin. This in vitro study demonstrates the significant antibacterial activity of Citrus aurantium peels and seeds against a range of common bacterial pathogens. These findings warrant further investigation to assess the potential real-world applications of these extracts, including toxicity testing and determination of optimal dosage.