Assessment of the Antimicrobial Properties of Citrus Fruit Peel Extracts & Formulation of Herbal Handwash

Geetha G, Moofika M

Abstract: This study explores the antimicrobial potential of citrus fruit peels Citrus limon, Citrus macroptera, and Citrus reticulata through phytochemical screening and antimicrobial assays. The peel extracts revealed key bioactive compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenols. Microbes isolated from hand swabs (e.g., Staphylococcus sp., E. coli, Candida albicans) were tested against the extracts, with Citrus reticulata showing the highest antimicrobial activity. An herbal handwash was formulated using the extracts, and evaluated for physical parameters, pH, foam properties, stability, and antimicrobial efficacy. The results showed effective microbial inhibition, supporting the potential of citrus peel-based hand wash as a natural hygiene product.

Keywords: Citrus limon, Citrus macroptera, Citrus reticulata, phytochemicals, antimicrobial activity, herbal handwash