Anthelmintic activity of wild chili pepper (Capsicum frutescens Linnaeus) fruit ethanolic extract against Ascaridia galli

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the in vitro anthelmintic activity of wild chili pepper <i>(Capsicum frutescens L.)</i> fruit extract against <i>Ascaridia galli,</i> a common gastrointestinal parasite in native chickens. <i>C. frutescens,</i> known for its high capsaicin content, was hypothesized to offer a natural and cost-effective alternative to synthetic dewormers like levamisole. Using a randomized controlled trial, mortality rates of<i>A. galli</i> were assessed at four extract concentrations (100%, 75%, 50%, and 25%) and compared with 1mg/ml of levamisole (positive control) and a negative control (Normal Saline Solution). Results demonstrated dose-dependent efficacy, with the 100% extract achieving complete worm mortality significantly faster (1min and 43s) than levamisole (8mins and 27s). Lower concentrations of the extract showed progressively reduced activity. These findings highlight the potential of <i>C. frutescens</i> as a potent natural anthelmintic. However, practical challenges, such as scalability and the need for high fruit volumes, warrant further research, including in vivo trials and optimization of capsaicin formulations for sustainable poultry farming solutions.