Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of Physalis peruviana L.

Abstract

Physalis peruviana L. belongs to the family Solanaceae and is considered as plant used for treating various diseases. The protective mechanism of Physalis consists of the ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and to enhance the antioxidant system in the human body. The ethanolic extract of Physalis peruviana fruits contains valuable and active compounds such as carotenoids, phenols, flavonoids, tannin, alkaloids, vitamins C, B3 and B6. Therefore, Physalis peruviana extract has antioxidant and antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Gram-positive Bacillus cereus demonstrated higher susceptibility than gram-negative Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas typhimureum. Also, the extract showed positive effect on the fungus used (Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans). In addition, high concentrations of Physalis peruviana ethanolic extract (800 µg/ml) exhibited significant anticancer activity against lung (A549) cells but slight effect against colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) cells.