Antioxidant and antimicrobial biological activities of bioactive molecules in Ravintsara bark: Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J.Presl. case study from Tsimbazaza Botanical and Zoological Park

Cinnamomum camphora (L.)J. Presl., commonly referred to as Camphor tree, is native to Southeast Asia and has a long history of medicinal use.A comprehensive research effort has been conducted on the biological activities of the essential oil extracted from the bark of the plant at the Tsimbazaza Botanical and Zoological Park (PBZT), in order to contribute to the conservation of natural resources.The essential oil of the bark of Cinnamomum camphora, has a specific chemotype.The TGC analyses showed that the major compounds are monoterpenes: 1.8-cineole (34,0%), -terpineol (10,1%), terpinen-4-ol (4,0%), camphor (25,0%), sabinene (2,1%), limonen (3,0%) and safrol (3,6%) phenyl propanoide.The essential oil of the bark of Cinnamomum camphora has antioxidant properties due the high presence of camphor, -terpineol, terpinen-4-ol which act by neutralizing free radicals.However, it is important to note that camphor exhibits high toxicity at elevated concentrations, necessitating careful use and dilution control.Furthermore, the synergy of 1,8 cineole, camphor, -terpineol, terpinen-4-ol and limonen contribut to the antimicrobial activities that can inhibit the growth of pathogens.In vitro tests have demonstrated its effectiveness against many strains of pathogenic bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, as well as against fungi such as Candida albicans.The use of Cinnamomum camphora bark essential oil from the PBZT provides an opportunity for research and education on the unique biological properties of this essential oil.