Studies on some Physicochemical properties and anti-microbial activities of Luffa cylindrica (Cucurbitaceae) seed oil

Abstract

The physical, chemical and antimicrobial properties of Luffa cyclindrica seed oil used in the traditional treatment of microbial infection were investigated. The seed oil was extracted  by steam distillation. The percentage yield, toxicological profile as well as the physical and chemical properties of the oil was determined by standard methods. The anti-microbial properties were investigated and compared to those of a standard anti-microbial agent-afloxacin. The extraction gave a yield of 4.38 % v/w oil, which had saponification value, unsaponifiable matter, acid value, ester value of 148.50, 8.32, 3.72 and 28.64 mg/g respectively. The oil also had a peroxide value of 5.43 mmol/kg, iodine value and free fatty acid value of 82.56 and 2.18 g/100 g respectively. Physical properties of the oil obtained were, specific gravity (0.732), viscosity (1.045 Centipoise) and refractive index (1.474) at 27 °C. The boiling point of the oil was between 203 – 207 °C while the congealing point was 12.50 ° C. The oil contains Vitamins A and E, which are known for their anti-oxidant activities. The oil exhibited significant (P<0.05) activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans and Escherichia coli comparable to the activity of the standard anti-microbial agent, afloxacin. The oil was more active against Gram positive organisms than Gram negative organisms. The toxicological studies show the absence of cyanide. Luffa cylindrica seed oil could be a good source of vegetable oil as it contains unsaturated fatty acids, Vitamin A and E and is free of anti- nutritive agents. Further assessment of the oil is recommended to establish suitability of the oil for use in the food and other allied industries.

Keywords: Luffa cylindrica, Cucurbitaceae, antimicrobial analysis, toxicological studies

Journal of Pharmaceutical and Allieid Sciences, Vol. 7 No. 1 (2010)