Identification of stigmasterol by preparative thin-layer chromatography, infrared, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis, and antioxidant properties of Cenchrus ciliaris L.

Abstract

Aim: The present investigation was carried out to determine the possible bioactive components of Cenchrus ciliaris, in vitro antibacterial activity of methanolic extracts, and comparative estimation of antioxidant properties (in vitro and in vivo) of C. ciliaris (Poaceae). Materials and Methods: Antibacterial activity was evaluated against seven Gram-negative bacteria, two Gram-positive bacteria, and three fungi, using disk diffusion method followed by determination of minimum inhibitory concentrations by broth dilution method, against sensitive bacteria and fungi. Bioactive components determined using thin-layer chromatography, infrared spectra, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis, and antioxidant properties estimated in terms of peroxidase, catalases, polyphenol oxidase, superoxide dismutase, lipid peroxidation activity and carotenoids, and total phenolics contents. Results and Discussion: The most bioactive compound in C. ciliaris was stigmasterol (3.02%), Rf value (0.83). Most of the extracts at higher concentrations showed varying degrees of inhibitory activity against all bacteria. The highest activity was exhibited by the leaf extract against Staphylococcus aureus. Escherichia coli, Agrobacterium tumefaciens, and Candida albicans were the most sensitive pathogens which show maximum antimicrobial effects. Gentamycin and Ketoconazole, the standard antibiotics used were effective against the bacteria and fungi, respectively. Highest antioxidant properties of C. ciliaris were found to greater in in vivo than in vitro. Conclusion: C. ciliaris contains various bioactive compounds. Hence, it is recommended as a plant of phytopharmaceutical importance.