Exploring anti-yeast activity of Nigella sativa seed extracts

Seed extract of Nigella sativa contains various phytochemicals having antibacterial, anti-fungal and medicinal properties. Their anti-yeast properties have not yet been investigated thoroughly. In this context, phytochemicals from N. sativa seeds were extracted in methanol and acetone. Anti-yeast activity of each extract was checked by agar well diffusion method against Saccharomyces cerevisiae NCIM 3495, Candida utilis NCIM 3496, and Candida albicans NCIM 3466. Further elucidation of anti-yeast activity was done by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The identification of phytochemicals was done by using GC-MS and the antioxidant properties checked by using DPPH assay. The maximum anti-yeast activity was reported at pH 7 and 30 degrees C temperature. Qualitative analysis of extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides and tannin. Thus, these results confirmed the anti-yeast and antioxidant properties of compounds extracted from N. sativa seeds which might be useful for further technology development processes. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.