CHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION AND ANTIMICROBIAL PROPERTIES OF CARICA PAPAYA LEAF EXTRACT: A MULTI-ASSAY APPROACH

Carica papaya, a widely cultivated fruit crop in tropical and subtropical regions, has been the subject of extensive research owing to its potential therapeutic properties. This study investigated the phytochemical composition and evaluated the cytotoxic, toxicological, and antibacterial activities of Carica papaya leaf extract. Fresh leaves were collected, washed, and subjected to percolation extraction using ethanol as solvent. (TLC) screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, anthraquinones, anthrones, essential oils, fatty acids, flavonoids, phenols, steroids, and tannins. The cytotoxicity of the extracts was assessed using the Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay (BSLA), which demonstrated significant cytotoxic effects with a 100% mortality rate after 48 h and an LC50 of -68977.14 ppm after 24 h. The Allium cepa test further confirmed the cytotoxic potential of the extracts, affecting cell division and resulting in a low mitotic index of 23.14 at 2000 ppm concentration. Antibacterial activity of the extracts was evaluated using the Kirby-Bauer Assay against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The results showed notable antibacterial activity, with mean zones of inhibition of 14.28 mm and 17.65 mm, respectively, indicating the potential of Carica papaya leaf extracts as natural antimicrobial agents. This comprehensive study highlights the rich bioactive composition and significant biological activities of Carica papaya leaves, supporting their potential for therapeutic applications and warranting further research on their medicinal properties.