Antifungal Efficacy Of Coconut Shell (Cocos Nucifera L.) Extract Against Pathogenic Fungi Using Well Diffusion Method

Abstract

The present study evaluates the antifungal activity of coconut shell (Cocos nucifera L.) extract using the well diffusion method against clinically and environmentally significant fungal strains. With the increasing occurrence of fungal infections exacerbated by post-pandemic humidity and resistance to conventional antifungal agents, there is growing interest in natural, eco-friendly alternatives. Coconut shell, typically an agricultural by-product, is rich in bioactive compounds such as tannins, polyphenols, flavonoids, and lignin, which possess proven antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The research investigates the extract's efficacy against five fungal species: Aspergillus niger, Aureobasidium pullulans, Chaetomium globosum, Penicillium pinophillum, and Gliocladium virens. Extracts were obtained through pyrolysis at 400–600°C and applied to inoculated agar plates. Zones of inhibition were measured to assess antifungal potency. The extract demonstrated variable activity across strains, with the highest inhibition observed against Penicillium pinophillum (24 mm), followed by Chaetomium globosum (20 mm), and moderate to low activity against others. These findings highlight the potential of coconut shell extract as a cost-effective, biodegradable antifungal agent for pharmaceutical and agricultural applications. This study supports further research into bioactive compound isolation and clinical validation to develop safe, sustainable antifungal products derived from agro-waste materials.