GC-mS analysis and anti-microbial activity of acidic fractions obtained from Paeonia peregrina and Paeonia tenuifolia roots.

Fourteen aromatic and 24 aliphatic acids were determined by GC-MS analysis of acidic fractions obtained from Paeonia peregrina and Paeonia tenuifolia roots. Benzoic acid and its monohydroxy-, dihydroxy- and trihydroxy-derivatives are the main acid components of both Paeonia species. Some fractions could serve as a source of benzoic, 4-hydroxybenzoic, vanillic and gallic acids, as well as of ethyl gallate. The fractions inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans.