Phytochemical Properties and Antibacterial Activities of Calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa) Peel and Leaf Infusion

Abstract

Over the years, the use of disinfectants has significantly increased due to the rise of Covid 19 pandemic. This has led to the overuse of disinfectants that contain chemicals that endangers the environment. In this study, the researchers studied the phytochemical properties of Calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa) peel and leaf infusion and its antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The experimental research design is appropriate for this study. As a result, the researchers conducted numerous tests, such as phytochemical analysis to determine the antibacterial components of the Calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa) peel and leaf infusion extract, and performing the disk diffusion method to ascertain whether the infusion can inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus. The experimental research design is appropriate for this study. As a result, the researchers conducted numerous tests, such as phytochemical analysis to determine the antibacterial components of the Calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa) peel and leaf infusion extract, and performing the disk diffusion method to ascertain whether the infusion can inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus. The disk diffusion test revealed that the Calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa) peel and leaf infusion could not inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus with a zero-millimeter clearing zone. Based on the phytochemical analysis, the researchers concluded that antimicrobial elements were present in the Calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa) peel and leaf infusion. However, the amount of antibacterial components of the infusion was insufficient to inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, the commercially available disinfectant and the formulated concentration of Calamansi (Citrofortunella microcarpa) Peel and Leaf Infusion differed significantly in efficacy.