Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Ficus Carica Leaves: an In Vitro Approach

Abstract

Ficus carica L. (fig) belongs to the mulberry tree (Moraceae) which is one of the oldest fruits in the world. It is used in our traditional system of medicine for healing various diseases. In a continuous bid to explore new biocompatible antioxidant and antimicrobial with the least associated side-effects Ficus carica were tested against pathogenic microorganisms; S. epidermidis, K. Pneumoniae, B. Subtilis, E. aerogens, and B. cereus. The methanol extracts were prepared and screened for in-vitro antioxidant activities an antimicrobial activity using 2,2-diphenyl- 1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and agar well diffusion method respectively. In addition, exract of Ficus carica prepared by soxlet apparatus and were partially purified by preparatory Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). In conclusion, the results indicate antimicrobial activity of the extract which could be further explored for purification of antioxidant compounds