Introduction


Abstract:

Through this project, we wish to explore the anti-fungal properties of  the extracts of different plants and fruits such as Capsicums, Chilli, Spring Onion and Barley. We have conducted different tests for the anti-fungal properties of these plants and fruits, such as the Well Diffusion test and the Colony Diameter test. The results came back positive, showing that the extracts of capsicum and chilli seeds, spring onion leaves and bulbs as well as barley seeds possess anti-fungal properties. There is a zone of inhibition around the wells containing the extracts, and the t-test values for these plant extracts as compared to the control (ethanol / PBS) are below 0.05, proving the anti-fungal properties of these plants.


Case Studies:

There were several case studies done regarding the topic of our projects. Extracts of green pepper have been found to be capable of inhibiting the germination of Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium moniliforme spores and hyphal growth. Also, chilli extracts in combination with lactobacillus casei possesses antifungal properties against Sphaeropsis sapinea and Leptographium procerum. In general, past case studies have proven that spices provide antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-cancer benefits, as well as reducing the symptoms of other conditions.

Rationale:

Previous case studies show that the extract of Green capsicum which contains capsaicin has an antifungal effect on fungal strains Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium monoliforme (Ngai and Ng, 2006) and inhibits the germination of their spores and hyphal growth. Thus, We would like to explore the antifungal properties of seed extracts of different plants and whether it is able to inhibit the growth of another fungal strain, Aspergillus niger, which causes detrimental effects on humans such as lung infection.

In addition, the problem with current anti-fungal medication is that it takes a long time for the patient to recover even though the drug has been consumed or applied. For example, fungus such as white spots that grow on our skin take a long time to recover even after medication has been applied.

Objectives:

We would like to explore the antifungal properties of the seed extract of different plants and prove whether it is able to inhibit the growth of the fungal strain Aspergillus Niger.

Hypothesis:

The Seed extracts of different plants, like chilli and capsicum are able to inhibit the growth of the fungal strain Aspergillus niger.