Abstract Hibiscus asper is a perennial herb. The calyx and leaf of H. asper are commonly used traditionally in Africa as anti-inflammatory, anti-depressive, sedative, tonic, anti-anaemic. Leaves are used against jaundice. Calyx and leaves are also used in African system of medicine for the treatment of abscesses, urethritis, joint pain, male infertility and skin infections In this study Hibiscus asper oil was studied by GC-MS .Major constituents of the oil are: i) 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)-, methyl ester (41.34%); 9-octadecenoic acid (Z)-, methyl ester (25.90%);hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (20.84%) and methyl stearate (6.67%). The oil was assessed for antimicrobial activity. At a concentration of 100mg/ml, the oil showed partial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
Keywords Hibiscus asper, Oil, GC-MS Analysis, Antimicrobial Activity.