Biological Activity of Hexane Extracts of the Northern Amazon Species Capsicum spp.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of inhibitory substances from the fruits of Capsicum spp. var. Canaimé against micro-organisms indicators. Mature fruits (1.0 kg) were purchased at an agricultural fair, dried in an oven, and then was continuously extracted on a Soxhlet apparatus for 6 h, using 500 mL of hexane. Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 15313) and Bacillus cereus (ATCC 49456) were used to perform the antibacterial activity, as well as three Gram-negative strains: Salmonella typhimurium (ATCC 14028), Citrobacter freundi (ATCC 8090) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 25922). The antibacterial activity of hexane extract of Capsicum spp. fruits in some concentrations, was quite high when compared with the antibiotic. The level of inhibition was better towards Gram (-) bacteria compared to Gram (+) bacteria. The excellent bioactivity of the extract against S. typhimurium may be related to its selectivity. The present study demonstrated the efficacy of Capsicum spp. extract against pathogens that affect the health of human beings and presence of chemical assets that aid in the prevention of diseases. However, more in-depth studies are still needed to consolidate its use and application in pharmaceutical area.