Unveiling the Bioactive Potential of Lantana camara in Relation to its Anti-oxidant and Antimycotic Properties

Abstract

Background and Objective The study aimed to explore the antioxidant and antifungal properties of the invasive and prolific weed species Lantana camara. The weed distributed globally belonging to the Verbenaceae family is not confined to a specific region making the studys findings relevant and applicable worldwide.Methods The methodology involved assessing the free radical scavenging activity of the methanolic extract from L. camara leaves through in vitro tests against specific fungi utilizing the well diffusion method. The crude extract was isolated characterized and evaluated for its antioxidantfree radical scavenging activity by the DPPH 11-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical method and further assessed for antifungal properties. Phytochemical screening and detection of phenolic and flavonoid content were conducted.Results Phytochemical constituents present in the L. camara leaf demonstrated antimycotic and anti-oxidant properties. The crude extract demonstrated free radical scavenging activity RSA ranging from 26.11 ww to 47.5 ww at concentrations varying from 30 microgmL to 150 microgmL. It showed high antioxidant activity at 150 microgmL concentration with an IC50 value of 1.8 to 24.1. Additionally it exhibited antifungal activity against certain Candida albicans species with a zone of inhibition of 9 mm comparable to the standard ketoconazole. Conclusion The findings suggest that L. camara may serve as a potential source of antioxidant and antifungal agents. However further research is needed to explore their complete potential and to ensure safety for medicinal purposes.