Investigation of antibacterial activities of Chrysophyllum albidum cotyledon and its topical cream formulation

Background: Emergence of multidrug resistant bacteria has rekindled interest on plant derived compounds as substitutes for synthetically produced antibacterial agents.

Objective: This study determined the chemical constituent of Chrysophyllum albidum seeds, the antibacterial activity of the ethanol extract and its topical cream formulation.

Method: The antimicrobial activity of the seed extract was evaluated against S. aureus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa and Klebsiella using agar diffusion method. Chemical constituents were determined with GC-MS.

Results: A solid, pleasant smelling and reddish brown coloured extract with a yield of 1.4%w/v was obtained. The extract inhibited growth of all test bacteria with an inhibitory zone diameter(IZD) of 20.3-22,5mm, while the cream had IZD between 12.5-15mm. GC-MS profile of extract showed the presence of Oleic acid 32.0%, Stearic acid19.86% and Palmitic acid 12.46% among other constituents which amounted to 35.68% of the extract.

Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of C. albidum seeds had antibacterial effect against gram positive and gram negative bacteria. 14 chemical compounds including fatty acids; Oleic, Stearic and Palmitic acids have been identified in the seeds. Formulation of extract into cream decreased antibacterial activity, suggestive of the need to increase its concentration in the cream in order to achieve a favourable therapeutic effect.