Extraction of Lauric Acid from Coconut Oil, Its Applications and Health Implications on Some Microorganisms

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Lauric acid obtained from coconut oil was studied for its applications and health implications on some microorganisms. Coconut samples obtained from a local market in Ihiala Local Government Area, Anambra State, were prepared and oil was extracted using the soxhlet extraction procedure. Excess solvent (n-Hexane) was removed from the oil and by calculation 92% of oil from five medium sized coconuts was obtained. Lauric acid was extracted from the oil and its health implications on these microorganisms were analyzed; Aspergillus flavus, staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans and Escherichia coli. 1.2g, 1.3g, 2g and 3g of lauric acid (crushed to powder form) were introduced into isolates of candida albicans, staphylococcus aureus, aspergillusflavus and Escherichia coli respectively. The results obtained showed that lauric acid is highly effective against candida albicans, staphylococcus aureus and aspergillus flavus in that order but had no effect on Escherichia coli. This showed that lauric acid (or monolaurin which is lauric acid but in a different form safe for human consumption) has antimicrobial properties. It is antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial but will only kill or destroy gram-positive bacteria thus it had no effect on Escherichia coli, gram-negative bacteria.