In-Vitro Thrombolytic Activity and Total Phenolic Content of the Hydroethanolic Extract of Citrus limetta Fruit Peel

Abstract

Background: Citrus limetta (Rutaceae), commonly known as sweet lime, is widely used in folklore medicine and possesses 
various pharmacological properties. However, the fruit peel has not been extensively evaluated for its clot-lysis potential. 
Objective: The present study aimed to determine the total phenolic content and evaluate the in-vitro thrombolytic activity of 
the hydroethanolic extract of Citrus limetta fruit peel. 
Methods: The dried fruit peel was extracted using a hydroethanolic solution (water:ethanol, 60:40) via a Soxhlet apparatus and 
fractionated with petroleum ether. The total phenolic content was determined using Folin-Ciocalteu’s reagent. The in-vitro 
thrombolytic model was used to assess the clot lysis activity of the extract compared to a standard drug (Streptokinase) and a 
negative control (water). 
Results: The physicochemical evaluation revealed an acidic pH (5.05) and a specific gravity of 1.229 g/ml. The total phenolic 
content was found to be 13.48 mg/g of Gallic Acid Equivalent (GAE). In the thrombolytic assay, the extract exhibited an 
average clot lysis of 14.28%, compared to 60.98% by standard Streptokinase and 4.01% by the negative control. 
Conclusion: The hydroethanolic extract of Citrus limetta fruit peel possesses moderate in-vitro thrombolytic activity, which 
may be attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds.