In vitro antibacterial and cytogenotoxicological properties of the aqueous extract of Cymbopogoncitratus Stapf (DC) leaf

BACKGROUND: Microbial infection of the genital tract or semen is one of the leading causes of male infertility. Consequently, there is a need to seek alternative products from natural sources. OBJECTIVES: The antibacterial, phytochemical and cytogenotoxicological assessments of the aqueous extract of Cymbopogon citratus leaf were evaluated. METHODS: The antibacterial potential of the extract was done via agar-well diffusion and microdilution techniques. The phytochemical analysis was done via standard protocols.The cytogenotoxicity of the extract were analyzed using the Allium cepa assay. RESULTS: All test organisms were found to be sensitive to the extract except Pseudomonas. aeruginosa where no measurable zone of inhibition could be ascertained at all concentrations assessed.The highest mean inhibition diameter of 21.33±1.20mm against S. sapophyticus was recorded and a concentration-dependent susceptibility noticed. The phytochemical results revealed the presence of saponins, flavonoid, glycoside, steroids, terpenoid and alkaloids. The Alliumcepa root showed reduced mitotic indices following aconcentration-dependent increase in the extract.It can be said that the aqueous extract of C. citratus had inhibitory activities against the tested pathogenic organisms with relative anti-tumour potential. CONCLUSION: This study indicated, C. citratus could be a potential source for antibacterial compounds for the possible treatment of male reproductive related infections.