Qualitative Phytochemical Analysis and in Vitro Fungal Activities of Citrus aurantifolia L . and Carica papaya L . Leaves Extracts on Pathogenic Fungi

The use of medicinal plants, which have fewer side effects and economically cheaper, have been taken into consideration recently. Citrus aurantifolia and Carica papaya leaves are not only known for their nutritional benefits but also considered to possess medicinal properties. The main aim of the study was to determine the antifungal activities of Citrus aurantifolia and Carica papaya leaves on some pathogenic fungi (Aspergillus, Candida and Penicillium) isolated from female genital tract. Leaves of Citrus aurantifolia and Carica papaya were collected from Onu-Ebonyi in Ebonyi State. Three different concentrations (300 mg/ml, 150 mg/ml and 75 mg/ml ) of leaves ethanol extract were prepared and introduced into bored holes of organisms cultured on potato dextrose agar(PDA). The result showed that leaf extract of lime had higher zones of inhibition diameter on three fungi species compare to leaf ethanol extract of Carica papaya. There were increase on zones of inhibition of both leaves extract as the concentration increases from 75 mg/ml to 300 mg/ml. Phytochemical screening indicated the presence of flavonoids, alkanoids, tannins, saponin and protein in Carica papaya but alkanoids and tannins in Citrus aurantifolia. The result showed that Citrus aurantifolia and Carica papaya possess antifungal activities but Citrus aurantifolia showed more inhibitions on Aspergillus, Candida and Penicillium than Carica papaya.