Phytochemical, antioxidant and in-vitro anti-inflammatory studies of peels of sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) have shown a promising natural cure against antibiotic resistant bacteria and opportunistic fungus

Abstract

Background- Multidrug-resistance has become an emerging health concern worldwide mostly in the immune-compromised patients. This indicates the need to search for alternative methods of controlling antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Ethono-medicinal data indicated sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), a widely consumed vegetable as a potent remedy in inflammatory and infectious diseases. The present study evaluated the phytochemical, antioxidant and anti-bacterial action of the ethanolic extract of Ipomoea batatas peels against some drug-resistant pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and anti-fungal action against Aspergilus niger responsible for most of the infections leading to the treatment failure. There is inflammation induced disorders like cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, etc. where the peels of Ipomoea batatas have very much potent anti-inflammatory activity.

Methods- The peels of sweet potato were authenticated and macerated ethanolic extract was used for the Phytochemical analysis, antioxidant, in-vitro anti-inflammatory studies were performed. The antifungal activity was studied against Aspergilus niger and antimicrobial action was evaluated against two most commonly found resistant strains like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.

Results- The phytochemical analysis the ethanolic extract of the peels of Ipomoea batatas has shown the presence of alkaloid, glycoside, phenol and tannin. Antioxidant activity in terms of total phenolic & total flavonoid contents has shown a significantly good value, less than 50µg/ml. The anti-bacterial activity against two antibiotic resistant bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureous were prominently good with the MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) 25 mg/ml and for the fungal strain Aspergilus niger, the MIC was 50 mg/ml. The various in-vitro anti-inflammatory studies like heat induced haemolysis, protein denaturation study etc. have proved that the sweet potato leaves have potent anti-inflammatory activity with an IC₅₀ value less than 400 µg/ml.

Conclusion- The present study indicated the ethanolic extract of Ipomoea batatas peel can be beneficial to develop a cost-effective natural source of antimicrobial agent against drug resistant pathogen and also source of cure for various inflammation induced disorders. Further study will lead to a sustainable source in pharmaceutical industries also helpful to maintain an eco-friendly environment.