Identification and evaluation of natural compounds in the bud extract of Capparis spinosa L. native to Iran for obesity management

This study examines the Capparis spinosa plant, prevalent in various regions of Iran, to evaluate its bud extract as a potential adjunctive treatment for obesity, a condition associated with significant health risks, including cardiovascular diseases. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) identified key compounds, including α-thujene and limonene, which may contribute to anti-obesity effects. The antioxidant capacity was assessed using the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and hydrogen peroxide assays. The extract's antimicrobial properties were tested against six bacterial strains and Candida albicans using the disk diffusion method, which determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). Results suggest that C. spinosa bud extract may serve as a promising complementary therapy for obesity. The extract demonstrated significant antibacterial and antifungal activity against bacterial strains, including Bacillus cereus , Escherichia coli , and Staphylococcus aureus . Key compounds are believed to enhance its antimicrobial effectiveness. The extract exhibited a clear zone of inhibition in Mueller-Hinton agar, indicating its capacity to inhibit microbial growth. The MIC and MBC results confirmed its bactericidal and fungicidal properties, supporting its potential use in traditional medicine. Further investigations should delve into the diverse applications and mechanisms of C. spinosa extract in addressing obesity and microbial infections. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the bud extract of C. spinosa , focusing on its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which have not been extensively studied in the context of obesity management. • Capparis spinosa extract shows potential as an anti-obesity treatment. • GC-MS identified key compounds like α-thujene and limonene. • The extract demonstrated significant antioxidant properties. • Antimicrobial activity was confirmed against multiple strains. • Potential therapeutic applications in obesity and microbial infections.