TITLE:
Phytochemical Analysis, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potential of Pouteria campechiana (Kunth) Leaf Extracts
AUTHORS:
Adjoavi Esse Agossou, Agossou Damien Pacôme Noumavo, Lysette Djidomi Carine Kinsou, Martial Nounagnon, Manrotan Marie Gabriella Nathalie Agossa, Yves Kévin Brun, Fidèle Mahoudo Assogba, Akouavi Carine Chimène Adoho, Durand Dah-Nouvlessounon, Farid Baba-Moussa, Lamine Baba-Moussa
KEYWORDS:
Phytochemistry, Sapotaceae, Biological Activities, Traditional Medicine, Antibiotics, Benin
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.14 No.1,
January
23,
2026
ABSTRACT: Aims: This study investigated the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial potential of the leaves from Pouteria campechiana (Sapotaceae), a fruit species known for its use in traditional medicine. Methodology: Aqueous and ethanolic extracts were prepared using established methods and then subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening and quantification of secondary metabolites. Biological activities were assessed by the DPPH method for antioxidant activity and by liquid diffusion for antimicrobial activity using reference, food, and clinical strains. Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, anthocyanins, reducing compounds, and mucilage. The ethanolic extract proved particularly rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and condensed tannins, with levels approximately twice those of the aqueous extract. The evaluation of antioxidant activity showed that the ethanolic extract exhibits significant free radical scavenging capacity (IC50 = 56.9 µg/mL), superior to that of the aqueous extract (IC50 = 326.3 µg/mL). Although ascorbic acid remains more potent, the performance of the ethanolic extract demonstrates the central role of polyphenols in the antioxidant activity of P. campechiana. Antimicrobial analyses showed that the aqueous extract was more active in diffusion on agar, with inhibition zones of 8.5 to 14.5 mm against several strains, including Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Escherichia coli. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations obtained (10 to 40 mg/mL) and the ratio Minimum Bactericidal Concentration MBC/MIC greater than 4 indicate a predominantly bacteriostatic effect for all microorganisms. Notably, multidrug-resistant clinical strains were less susceptible to the crude extracts. Conclusion: Pouteria campechiana appears to be a plant of interest, possessing good antioxidant activity and moderate antimicrobial potential. The ethanolic extract is a promising candidate for antioxidant applications, while the aqueous extract shows interesting antimicrobial efficacy.