Antibacterial and antifungal activity of Barleria cristata: In vitro study
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Evaluation of antibacterial and antifungal activity of barleria cristata- an invitro study
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Darling Chellathai, Punnagai Gunasekaran, Aparna Mani
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Evaluation of antibacterial and antifungal activity of barleria cristata- an invitro study
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Infectious diseases remain a significant global health burden, particularly in developing countries, where they are a leading cause of mortality. Despite advancements in antibiotics, issues such as adverse effects, high costs, and the emergence of antibiotic resistance challenge current medical practices. This situation has led researchers to explore alternative sources for antibiotics, particularly from plants. Barleria cristata, an ornamental shrub found in India, has long been used in traditional medicine for various ailments. This study evaluates the antibacterial and antifungal properties of ethanolic leaf extracts of B. cristata, specifically against common gram-negative bacteria and fungi.
Antibacterial Activity of Barleria cristata
The study found that the ethanolic extract of B. cristata demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, especially against Vibrio species and Staphylococcus aureus. The extract exhibited a maximum zone of inhibition of 15 mm against Vibrio spp at a concentration of 1000 µg/ml, followed by 14 mm against Staphylococcus aureus. Moderate activity was noted against other gram-negative bacteria, such as E. coli and Pseudomonas. However, the extract showed minimal effects against Klebsiella and Proteus species, indicating varying susceptibilities among different bacterial strains.
Antifungal Activity of Barleria cristata
While the antibacterial properties were more notable, B. cristata also displayed antifungal activity, although to a lesser extent. The study reported that among the five fungi tested, Aspergillus niger was the most sensitive, exhibiting a maximum zone of inhibition of 6 mm at the highest extract concentration. Other fungi showed moderate resistance, with inhibition zones ranging from 3 to 5 mm. The findings suggest that while B. cristata has potential antifungal properties, its efficacy against fungi is comparatively lower than that against bacteria.
Phytochemicals Responsible for Antimicrobial Activity
The antimicrobial effects observed in the study are attributed to the presence of various bioactive phytochemicals in B. cristata, such as alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, and phenols. These compounds play a crucial role in mediating the extraction's antibacterial and antifungal activity. The study suggests that further investigation into these active principles is essential to fully understand their roles and mechanisms in combating infectious agents.
Conclusion
The ethanolic extract of Barleria cristata displays significant antimicrobial activity against both gram-negative bacteria and fungi, suggesting its potential as a source for developing new therapeutic agents. However, the study highlights the need for further research to identify specific active compounds responsible for its effects and to elucidate the mechanisms of action. This exploration could pave the way for utilizing B. cristata in creating novel pharmaceuticals for tackling infectious diseases, particularly in an era marked by rising antibiotic resistance.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Barleria cristata and its traditional uses?
Barleria cristata is an ornamental shrub used in traditional medicine in Central and South India to treat various disorders such as anaemia, toothache, cough, fever, asthma, bronchitis, and diabetes.
What was the aim of the study on Barleria cristata?
The study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and antifungal activities of the ethanolic leaf extracts of Barleria cristata against commonly occurring gram-negative organisms and various fungal strains.
How was the plant extract prepared for testing?
The powdered leaf material of Barleria cristata was successively extracted with ethanol and water using a soxhlet apparatus, then filtered and concentrated for further studies.
What organisms were tested in this antimicrobial study?
Ten strains of bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, along with five fungal strains like Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger, were used to assess antimicrobial activity.
What were the main findings regarding antibacterial activity?
The ethanolic extract exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Vibrio spp. and Staphylococcus aureus, with the highest inhibition zone observed for Vibrio spp. at 15 mm.
What conclusions were drawn from the antimicrobial study?
The study concluded that Barleria cristata possesses significant antimicrobial activity, suggesting potential for its active compounds to be developed into therapeutic agents for infectious diseases.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antibacterial and antifungal activity of Barleria cristata: In vitro study”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Activity:
Activity refers to the capacity of the ethanolic extract from Barleria cristata to inhibit the growth of microorganisms, showcasing its potential therapeutic properties. In the context of this study, the focus is on both antibacterial and antifungal activities, highlighting the extract's efficacy against various pathogens like bacteria and fungi.
2) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotic signifies compounds that inhibit bacterial growth or kill bacteria. This study underscores the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance, leading researchers to explore plants like Barleria cristata. The findings aim to support the development of new, plant-derived antibiotics that could combat resistant microbial strains effectively.
3) Barleria cristata:
Barleria cristata is a plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family, recognized for its ornamental and medicinal uses. Its leaves and roots, traditionally used in herbal medicine, are the focus of the study, showcasing their potential in developing new antimicrobial agents against infectious diseases.
4) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the research conducted to evaluate the antimicrobial potential of Barleria cristata. This investigation employs various scientific methods to ascertain the effectiveness of the plant extract against selected bacterial and fungal strains, contributing to our understanding of alternative sources for antibiotics and the significance of plants in pharmacology.
5) Chennai:
Chennai is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, where the research was conducted. It serves as a key geographical location for the study, highlighting regional biodiversity and the traditional use of plants in medicine, reinforcing the city's contribution to pharmaceutical research and herbal medicine.
6) Aureus:
Aureus refers specifically to Staphylococcus aureus, a gram-positive bacterium known for causing various infections. The study investigates the effects of Barleria cristata extract on this pathogen, which is important due to its widespread resistance to conventional antibiotics, thereby emphasizing the urgent need for alternative treatments.
7) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology is the science that studies drug action and interaction in biological systems. The research falls under this field as it explores the antimicrobial properties of a plant extract, aiming to understand how the bioactive compounds might be engineered into effective medications against infectious diseases.
8) Drug:
Drug signifies any substance used in the treatment of disease. In this context, it pertains to the potential transformation of Barleria cristata's active components into new therapeutic agents, aiming to address the public health challenge posed by antibiotic-resistant infections and improve treatment outcomes.
9) Disease:
Disease denotes any alteration in normal bodily function, commonly caused by pathogens. This study seeks to address infectious diseases, which are a leading cause of mortality in developing countries, by examining potential new sources of treatment derived from natural products like Barleria cristata.
10) Species:
Species refers to distinct groups of organisms. The research examines different bacterial and fungal species, focusing on their susceptibility to the Barleria cristata extract. Understanding how specific species respond is vital for developing targeted treatments and understanding the broader implications of antimicrobial resistance.
11) Medium:
Medium refers to the growth medium used in microbiological testing, such as Muller Hinton Agar for bacteria and Sabouraud Dextrose Agar for fungi in this study. It provides the necessary nutrients for the test organisms and serves as a basis to evaluate antimicrobial activity.
12) Developing:
Developing pertains to nations that are facing significant health challenges, such as high rates of infectious diseases and rising antibiotic resistance. The study has particular relevance for these regions, underscoring the need for innovative solutions and alternative therapies derived from natural resources like Barleria cristata.
13) Table:
Table refers to the organized presentation of data summarizing the antimicrobial activities observed in the study. It systematically outlines the zones of inhibition (indicator of effectiveness) for different organisms, facilitating comparison and analysis of the extract’s antibacterial and antifungal properties.
14) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical signifies bioactive compounds derived from plants that exhibit medicinal properties. This study highlights the importance of identifying specific phytochemicals in Barleria cristata associated with its antimicrobial effects, which could lead to new pharmacological applications and enhance understanding of plant-based therapies.
15) Kancipura (Kancipuram, Kanchipuram, Kamcipura, Kanci-pura, Kamci-pura):
Kancheepuram is a district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, where the Barleria cristata plant was collected for the research. This locality emphasizes the geographic diversity of medicinal plants available for study, supporting the idea that local flora can contribute to innovative drug development.
16) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response of body tissues to harmful stimuli. The study references the traditional use of Barleria cristata in treating inflammation, suggesting its potential therapeutic effects may extend beyond antimicrobial properties, highlighting the plant’s multifaceted medicinal applications.
17) Discussion:
Discussion is a critical section in scientific writing that interprets the findings. It connects the results of the study with existing knowledge, discussing implications, comparisons to previous research, and the significance of the study in the context of ongoing challenges in healthcare related to infectious diseases.
18) Science (Scientific):
Scientific underscores the methodical approach taken in the study, utilizing empirical testing, controlled experimentation, and rational analysis of results. It reinforces the study's credibility, aiming to contribute reliable data to the field of pharmacology and assist in developing new antimicrobials from plant sources.
19) Medicine:
Medicine entails the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness. This study contributes to the field by examining natural products as potential medicinal resources. It aligns with the ongoing quest to find effective therapies amidst the increasing complexity of infectious diseases and resistance patterns.
20) Swelling:
Swelling is a common symptom of inflammation. The study connects Barleria cristata to traditional applications for managing swelling, showcasing its potential therapeutic benefits. Understanding its role in such conditions could amplify its relevance in modern medicinal contexts, particularly in treating inflammatory disorders.
21) Siddha:
Siddha refers to an ancient Indian system of medicine native to Tamil Nadu that emphasizes harmony between body, mind, and spirit. The relevance of this study lies in the traditional healing practices surrounding Barleria cristata, suggesting its continued significance in herbal medicine and potential integration into contemporary therapeutic frameworks.
22) Family:
Family in this context refers to the classification hierarchy in biology, specifically indicating Barleria cristata's placement within the Acanthaceae family. This classification is significant for understanding related species and their respective medicinal properties, providing a broader context for the plant's traditional and pharmacological value.
23) India:
India signifies the geographic and cultural context for the research, highlighting the rich biodiversity and traditional knowledge of medicinal plants. The study emphasizes how Indian flora, like Barleria cristata, offers significant potential in the ongoing search for innovative treatments for infectious diseases.
24) Water:
Water is mentioned as a solvent used during the preparation of the plant extract. Its role as a medium for extraction underlines the importance of solubility and extraction techniques in isolating bioactive compounds, essential for assessing the efficacy of natural products in pharmacological research.
25) Field:
Field refers to the specific domain of study, in this case, pharmacology and microbiology. It emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of the research, which integrates knowledge from various scientific areas to explore the antimicrobial properties of Barleria cristata and its potential applications in medicine.
26) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom associated with various infections. The mention of Barleria cristata's traditional use for treating fever underscores its medicinal significance and potential as an antimicrobial agent, posing relevance for conditions where such symptoms are prevalent, particularly in developing countries.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Antibacterial and antifungal activity of Barleria cristata: In vitro study’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Therapeutic agent, Traditional medicine, Herbal medicine, Infectious disease, Developing countries, Antibacterial activity, Phytochemical screening, Anti-inflammatory properties, Antimicrobial property, Research article, Disc diffusion method, Zone of inhibition, Antifungal activity, Bioactive Phytochemicals, HPTLC analysis, Traditional herbal medicine, Mechanism of action, Antibiotic resistance, Ethanol extract, Clinical implication, Plant Extract, In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity, Muller Hinton agar, Sabouraud dextrose agar, Crude extract, Test organism, Gram positive organism, Gram negative organism, Active compound, Active metabolite, Novel drug, Muller Hinton Agar medium, Saponin fraction, Plant product, Scientific field.