Antimicrobial and phytochemical properties of methanol and hexane extract of non- gilled mushrooms collected from North-Western Himalayas

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial and phytochemical properties of four non-gilled mushrooms collected from the forest of North Western Himalayas. The antimicrobial activity of four non-gilled mushrooms was performed against three pathogenic bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli) and one fungal strain (Cryptococcus neoformans). Quantitative and qualitative analysis of phytochemical properties was carried out using standard methods. The obtained results revealed that Auricularia polytricha showed maximum antimicrobial activity against all selected pathogenic strains in methanolic and hexane extract however in hexane extract Ganoderma lucidum showed good antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (24.6±0.47) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (13.3±0.47). Last activity was observed in the methanolic extract by Trametes elegans (10.3±0.47) and no activity was observed in hexane extract by Trametes elegans and Auricularia auricular-judae against Cryptococcus neoformans. In comparison to hexane extract methanolic extract showed good antimicrobial activity against all pathogenic microorganisms. However, in all selected non-gilled mushrooms, Auricularia polytricha showed maximum activity. Methanolic extract showed higher phytochemicals then hexane extract. The antimicrobial and phytochemical analysis of non-gilled mush- rooms shown to be a good source of antibacterial and phytoconstituents that warrant further studies as a future dietary supplement to improve health and well being.