Antibacterial Activity of the Epicarp of Calamansi (citrus x microcarpa) against Staphylococcus Aureus from an Infectious Wound

Calamansi or citrus x microcarpa is also known as lemonsito in other parts of the Philippines and calamondin, Philippine lemon, or Philippine lime to the rest of the world. Calamansi extract fights against Staphylococcus aureus, the most dangerous bacteria among Staphylococcus and a gram-positive, sphere- shaped bacteria that often causes skin infections, pneumonia, and bone infections. The peel and leaves of calamansi can be used as antioxidants and antimicrobials since they contain essential oils. A substance that acts as an antibacterial can prevent the growth of bacteria. Upon experimentation, the researchers determined the antimicrobial pattern of the test organism against different concentrations (50, 100, 150, and 200 mg/ml) of the two test extracts (Crude Methanol and Crude Aqueous). An analytical balance was used to measure these crude extracts, and distilled water was mixed with it. The method used in this study is experimental research design, as it follows a systematic and scientific approach to research. The methanol crude extracts of the epicarp of calamansi (Citrus x microcarpa) showed antibacterial activity against the test bacteria, with the highest activity of 6.3 mm against Staphylococcus aureus at the concentration of 150 mg/ml used. In comparison, the aqueous extract showed activity against the organism with the highest activity of 6.1 mm at the concentration of 100 mg/ml used. The positive control utilized was chloramphenicol, which also demonstrated variable degrees of activity against the microorganism. These results indicate that the epicarp of Citrus x macrocarpa exhibited antibacterial properties. Keywords : analytical balance, antimicrobial property, aqueous extract, disc diffusion method, methanol crude extracts