Antibacterial and antioxidant activity test of crude lutein extracted from sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

Lutein is a carotenoid compound classified as xanthophyll found in certain microalgae and vegetable plants. This compound is also found in the crown of the sunflower (Helianthus annuus). The main function of lutein in the body is an antioxidant that is responsible for macular eye health. This research aimed to extract lutein compounds from sunflowers, analyze phytochemical content, test its activity as an antibacterial and antioxidant. Sunflower crown powder was macerated with n-hexane solvent, then performed digestion using isopropanol and saponified with a 50% NaOH solution. The solution was evaporated, and the extract was washed with a mixture of water and alcohol (1:1) to obtain crude lutein. Furthermore, the potential of lutein as an antibacterial agent was tested using the disc diffusion method, against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, and Staphylococcus aureus at concentrations of 1.000, 5.000, 10.000, 25.000 and 50.000 ppm. The test results showed the existence of inhibition zones of 11,12 mm to 20,52 mm. The testing of crude lutein's antioxidant activity was carried out using ABTS solution (2,2'-azinobis acid(3- ethylbenzatiazolin)-6sulfonate) showing IC50 of 80,64 µg/mL.