Detection of Phytoconstituents in Column Fractions of n-Hexane Extract of Goldcrest Honey Exhibiting Anti-Helicobacter pylori Activity

Background and AimsAlternative therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication from natural products is gaining much attention. This study sought to isolate and characterize the fraction responsible for the antibacterial activity in Goldcrest (GC) n-hexane extract.MethodsThin-layer chromatography (TLC) of the extract was carried out on Silica gel plates to determine the presence of chemical compounds, which were separated and partially purified by column chromatography. The obtained fractions GCCL, GCF2, GCF3 and GCF4 were tested for anti-H. pylori activity using the broth microdilution method. Volatile compounds in the active fractions were identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. MINITAB was used for statistical analysis at 95% confidence interval.ResultsThe best antibacterial activity was exhibited by GCF3 (5 mg/mL), which was composed of many compounds with known antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. A total of 16 volatile compounds were identified from fractions GCF2, GCF3 and GCF4 into the following families; alcohol, ketone, aliphatic acid, benzene compound, hydrocarbon, furan and pyran derivatives.ConclusionsThe demonstration of antibacterial activity by the column fractions of GC n-hexane extract may provide new lead molecules that could serve as selective agents for H. pylori chemotherapy and control.