Antimicrobial effects of hydrophilic extracts of Pelargonium species (Geraniaceae).

Methanolic extracts of representative species and cultivars of Pelargonium (Geraniaceae) were assessed for activity against 25 different species of bacteria and Aspergillus niger. All samples were active against at least 18 bacterial species and some were active against all 25 species, although there was very poor antifungal action. Antioxidant action was very pronounced, and this together with the strong antibacterial activity indicates that there is a potential usage in the food or other industry for Pelargonium extracts.