Extracts and fractions of Croton L. (Euphorbiaceae) species with antimicrobial activity and antioxidant potential

ABSTRACT The growing microbial resistance to antibiotics and the adverse effects of the frequent use of antimicrobials in oral medicine require products as natural therapeutic alternatives. Croton betaceus and C. lundianus can be viable for in-depth studies in search of new bioproducts. This study evaluated the antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of ethanol extract and leaf fractions of Croton spp. The disk diffusion assay, FRAP and DPPH, were used for antimicrobial and antioxidant analysis, respectively. In addition to phytochemical prospecting and toxicity testing. Secondary metabolites with biological activities were found. Researched extracts and fractions have the potential to inhibit the growth of oral pathogens (Gram-positive, Gram-negative and yeast) in different concentrations. Enterococcus faecalis is the most susceptible to the extract. All fractions showed antioxidant potential. The hexane fraction (BHX and LHX) of both species can inhibit the growth of pathogens in low concentrations, and has a high antioxidant power. The fractions of the extracts of C. betaceus and C. lundianus have important biological activities that can be applied in the development of new antimicrobials for industry and other biotechnological applications.