EFFICIENCY OF SOME EXTRACTS OF MEDICINAL PLANTS AGAINST TOXIGENIC ASPERGILLUS FLAVUS
Abstract
This study investigates the prevalence, ecology, pathogenicity, and control strategies of Aspergillus flavus, a major aflatoxin-producing fungus threatening food safety, public health, and the environment. Laboratory analyses involved ethanolic extraction of selected Nigerian medicinal plants, antifungal susceptibility testing against A. flavus, and determination of minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). Morphological and molecular techniques were used to confirm fungal identity, while agar well diffusion assays measured zones of inhibition. Results revealed that Azadirachta indica, Moringa oleifera, and Vernonia amygdalina exhibited significant antifungal activity, with inhibition zones up to 17 mm and MIC values as low as 12.5 µg/mL, while Cola acuminata and Theobroma cacao showed no activity. The study highlights the influence of environmental factors and climate change on fungal proliferation and aflatoxin production. Findings suggest that integrating plant-based antifungal agents, environmental monitoring, and strict food safety regulations could provide an effective strategy for mitigating A. flavus-related risks.
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