Chemical composition and antimicrobial activities of Tunisian Salsola vermiculata L.

The chemical composition of Salsola vermiculate L. leaves, roots and stems volatile fractions was determined by gas chromatography. The major compounds of leaves volatile fraction were carvone (52.2%) and β-caryophyllene (5.8%). The major constituents of roots volatile fraction were carvone (49.9%) and cumin aldehyde (4.4%). The stems volatile fraction was dominated by carvone (53%), limonene (17.4%) and linalool (11.3%). The antimicrobial activity of S. vermiculate leaves, roots and stems extracts was evaluated toward Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumanii. The ethanolic roots extract was the most active against S. aureus with a MIC value of 0.28 mg/mL. However, E. coli and P. aeruginosa were the most resistant bacteria. The antifungal activity was tested against Candida krusei, Candida parapsilosis and Candida glabrata. These activities were weak with inhibition zone diameters ranging from 6 to 9.5 mm.