Polyphenol oxidase inhibitory activity of essential oils of Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon citratus

Abstract

Polyphenol oxidase (tyrosinase) (EC 1.14 18.1) is responsible for the hyperpigmentation in humans, insect molting process and browning reactions of plants. There is interest to develop methods to control polyphenol oxidase reaction. Essential oils of lemon grass, Cymbopogon citratus (D.C.) Stapf. and citronella, Cymbopogan nardus Rendle were found to inhibit the activity of polyphenol oxidase. Cinnamic acid inhibited the oxidation with an ID value of 0.351 (mg/ml). Citronella and lemongrass oils could be used as naturally occurring inhibitors for Polyphenol oxidase.