Phytochemical Characterization and Antifungal Activity of Aqueous and Hydroethanolic Leaf Extracts of Manihot esculenta Crantz

Abstract

Aims: This study investigated the phytochemical profile of aqueous and hydro-ethanolic leaf extracts of Manihot esculenta Crantz and evaluated their antifungal activity. Study Design: The phytochemical composition and antifungal properties of the extracts were assessed using in vitro methods. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Laboratory of Botany and Plant Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lomé, Togo, from June to November 2024. Methodology: Phytoconstituents were screened using staining and/or precipitation tests. Total polyphenol, flavonoid, and tannin contents were determined by spectrophotometric assays. Antifungal activity was assessed by serial microdilution against selected yeasts, dermatophytes, and filamentous fungi, and the data were analysed at p < 0.05. Results: Saponins, alkaloids, polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, triterpenes, and sterols were detected, except for saponins in the aqueous extract. The hydro-ethanolic extract had higher contents of polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins (160.39 ± 20.18 GAE/g DE; 130.93 ± 3.69 QE/g DE; 102.84 ± 13.48 CE/g DE) than the aqueous extract (80.65 ± 14.22 GAE/g DE; 90.16 ± 3.41 QE/g DE; 28.31 ± 5.91 CE/g DE). MIC values ranged from 1.25 to >40 mg/mL. Conclusion: The hydro-ethanolic extract showed comparatively stronger phytochemical recovery and selected antifungal effects, although both extracts showed weak activity compared with reference antifungals.