Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Leaf Calotropis gigantea (L.) Dryand Oleoresin

Calotropis gigantea (L.) Dryand., commonly known as Giant calotrope, is traditionally used in the treatment of bronchitis, asthma, leprosy, eczema, and elephantiasis. This study aimed to determine the phytochemical composition and biological activities of its leaf oleoresin (GCLO) and root oleoresin (GCRO). The plant material was subjected to cold percolation extraction using acetone, and chemical components were identified by GC-MS analysis. Organ specific variation was observed: GCLO contained 13 compounds (87.9% of total composition), while GCRO contained 12 compounds (88.1). Both oleoresins demonstrated dose dependent herbicidal effects on radish seeds (Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. sativus). Antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger and Penicillium chrysogenum was modest, with percent growth inhibition ranging from 2.2% to 5.2% at 32mg/Ml, and MIC values of 8-16mg/mL. The significant herbicidal and antifungal properties of both oleoresins demonstrate their potential as excellent sources for the development of environmentally beneficial biopesticides that may eventually substitute synthetic pesticides.