Evaluation of the Phytochemical Composition and Antimicrobial Properties of Crude Methanolic Extract of leaves of ocimum gratissimum L.

Abstract

Methonolic extract of the leaves of Ocimum gratissimum L. was investigated for its phytochemical composition and antimicrobial properties. Phytochemical screening of the leaf extract revealed the presence of carbohydrates, proteins and terpenoids in high concentrations (+++). Reducing sugars, glycosides and tannins occurred in moderate amounts (++) while saponins, flavonoids and steroids were present in low concentrations (+).  The leaf extract was devoid of alkaloids, resins, oils and acidic compounds (-).  Bacillus subtilis was the only microorganism sensitive to the leaf extract and had an inhibition zone diameter of 12.5mm.  The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the extract against B. subtilis was 100 mg/ml.  The antibacterial potential of this plant part which can be exploited in the future for its bioactive constituents has thus been demonstrated.