Antibacterial Efficacy of Citrus sinensis (Sweet Orange) against Enterococcus faecalis-An In vitro Study

Background: Resistant microbes always represent a challenge in the treatment of various well-known infections and urges the need for substances with potent antimicrobial properties. Citrus sinensis is one of the most important and widely known among various fruits for its medicinal value. Many medicinal properties of orange peel extract, such as against colic, upset stomach, cancer, diuretic, immune-enhancing, stomachic, tonic to digestive system and it is known to fight viral and bacterial infections. Thus this study aims to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of Citrus sinensis against E. faecalis biofilm. Methodology: Aqueous and ethanol extracts prepared from peel of Citrus sinensis were screened for in vitro antimicrobial activity against E. faecalis using agar well diffusion method. The lowest concentration of every extract considered as the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were determined for both test organisms. One way ANOVA test was applied for statistical analysis. Results: E. faecalis were inhibited most by extracts of Citrus sinensis peel. MIC of Citrus sinensis peel was 37.5 μg/ml and MBC was 59.42 μg/ml. Conclusion: Citrus sinensis peels extract demonstrated antimicrobial activity against E. faecalis in vitro warranting further in vivo clinical studies to determine the exact dosages and its effectiveness in practical situations.