Exploration of the phytochemical evaluation, chemical profile, and antimicrobial activities of cashew nut shell oil, a potential medicinal plant for various applications

Cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL), a by-product of cashew nut processing, is known for its bioactive compounds, potential antimicrobial, antioxidant, and pharmaceutical applications. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antimicrobial activity, and chemical profile of CNSL, providing scientific evaluation for its potential therapeutic and industrial applications. After the CNSL was extracted using Soxhlet extraction, its chemical composition was investigated using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry analysis (GC-MS), and functional group identification using Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR). Also its phytochemical components and antimicrobial activity against organisms were evaluated. The FTIR and GC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of phenolic groups which contributes to the antimicrobial activity observed. The phytochemical analysis of CNSL extract revealed the presence of phenols, tannins, terpenoids, amino acids, and flavonoids, across the different solvent extracts. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) showed that the extract was most effective against Streptococcus pyogene and Bacillus subtilis (25 mg/ml) and less effective against Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli (50 mg/ml). The CNSL's phytochemical constituents highlight its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent, especially against gram-positive bacteria, indicating its potential applications in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Further studies are needed to quantify, assess cytotoxicity, and develop CNSL-based products. • Phytochemical study of cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) reveals bioactive constituents • GC-MS and FTIR confirmed the identification of phenolic groups in the CNSL extract • CNSL contains flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, amino acids, and phenols • Antimicrobial activity of CNSL is more efficient against Streptococcus pyogene • This study lays the foundation for CNSL toxicity research and product development