Phytochemical composition and biological activities of essential oil of Rhynchosia minima (L) (DC) (Fabaceae)

Abstract

The major constituents, antimicrobial activities against 12 bacterial and 4 fungal species and the antioxidant activity of Rhynchosia minima essential oil were determined. The yield of the oil was 0.21%. The main components of the oil included isopropyl toluene, camphene and O-cymene. The essential oil exhibited marked activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, but was not active against Clostridium perfringens up to the concentration of 100 g/ml. The essential oil also exhibited anti-oxidant activity. The significant antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of R. minima oil suggests that it could serve as a source for compounds with therapeutic potential.