Antimicrobial and phytochemical traits of Moringa oleifera.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: The antimicrobial activity and phytochemical characteristic of moringa oleifera seeds, leaves, and flowers
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.
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Sahar M. Kheir, Kafi S K and Haitham Elbir
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: The antimicrobial activity and phytochemical characteristic of moringa oleifera seeds, leaves, and flowers
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Moringa oleifera, a plant traditionally utilized in west Sudan for water purification, has garnered attention for its potential antimicrobial properties. The study conducted by Sahar M. Kheir and colleagues aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and phytochemical characteristics of various parts of the Moringa plant, specifically seeds, leaves, and flowers. The extracts were assessed against a range of clinical bacterial isolates, including both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, to understand their effectiveness in combating bacterial infections.
Antimicrobial Activity of Moringa Oleifera
The results of the study indicated that Moringa oleifera extracts exhibited significant antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria, with no effect on gram-negative strains. The alcohol and water extracts from the seeds were particularly noted for their ability to inhibit the growth of gram-positive pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Diphtheroid species, with the lowest recorded minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values indicating potent antibacterial properties. Conversely, the phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins, which may contribute to the observed antimicrobial effects.
Phytochemical Composition of Moringa Oleifera
The phytochemical screening conducted on the different parts of Moringa oleifera showed a varied composition of active compounds. All tested extracts positively indicated the presence of saponins and flavonoids, with notable differences among the extracts of seeds, leaves, and flowers. For example, while the leaves' alcohol extracts contained a higher concentration of tannins, the seeds showed a robust presence of alkaloids. This variation in phytochemical composition is crucial, as it may result in differing antimicrobial activities depending on the specific extract used, reinforcing the need for further investigation into the synergistic effects of these compounds.
Resistance Observed in Clinical Strains
While the extracts demonstrated considerable antibacterial properties, some clinical bacterial isolates—specifically, certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus—displayed resistance to all Moringa extracts tested. This resistance highlights a significant challenge in treating bacterial infections using traditional herbal remedies, emphasizing the importance of understanding bacterial pathogenesis and resistance mechanisms. Despite the potency of Moringa extracts against various gram-positive bacteria, the presence of resistant strains underlines the need for continuous effort in both research and potential therapeutic applications.
Conclusion
In summary, Moringa oleifera has proven to be a valuable source of antibacterial compounds, particularly against gram-positive bacteria. The study highlights the importance of traditional medicinal plants in the search for new antimicrobial agents, while also indicating that environmental factors, extraction methods, and specific plant parts play key roles in the efficacy of these extracts. The findings not only demonstrate the potential of Moringa oleifera in overcoming bacterial infections but also serve as a foundation for developing new treatments and understanding the complexities of plant-based antimicrobials in combating antibiotic resistance. Further research is essential to explore the diverse benefits of Moringa oleifera and to expand its applications in modern medicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the main objective of the study on Moringa oleifera?
The study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial effects, minimum inhibitory concentrations, and phytochemical characteristics of Moringa oleifera seeds, leaves, and flowers against various clinical bacterial isolates.
Which bacterial strains were tested in this research?
The research tested 155 clinical bacterial isolates, including both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria such as E. coli, S. aureus, and MRSA, among others.
What methods were used to extract and analyze Moringa oleifera?
Ether, alcohol, and water extracts of Moringa oleifera were prepared using Soxhlet apparatus and analyzed for their phytochemical properties and antimicrobial activities.
What were the findings regarding Moringa oleifera’s antimicrobial activity?
Moringa oleifera extracts showed no activity against gram-negative bacteria but demonstrated varying degrees of antibacterial effects against gram-positive bacteria, particularly effective against S. aureus.
Which Moringa parts exhibited the strongest antibacterial properties?
The alcohol and water extracts of Moringa oleifera seeds showed the strongest antibacterial activities against gram-positive bacterial strains, with minimal inhibitory concentrations as low as 31.25 mg/ml.
What phytochemicals were identified in Moringa oleifera extracts?
Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and steroids in the extracts of Moringa oleifera, contributing to the plant’s antimicrobial properties.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antimicrobial and phytochemical traits of Moringa oleifera.”. 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) Aureus:
Aureus refers to Staphylococcus aureus, a gram-positive bacterium that is significant due to its role in various infections, including skin infections, pneumonia, and bloodstream infections. It is a pivotal focus in antimicrobial studies, as it often exhibits antibiotic resistance, notably in strains like MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).
2) Activity:
Activity in this context relates to the biological or pharmacological effects of Moringa oleifera extracts on different bacterial strains. The examination of the extracts' antimicrobial activity helps to establish their potential effectiveness against bacterial pathogens, thus contributing to the development of alternative therapeutic options.
3) Water:
Water is a solvent used to extract bioactive compounds from Moringa oleifera's seeds, leaves, and flowers. The study investigates the antimicrobial properties of these aqueous extracts, reflecting the relevance of water as a natural medium for extracting medicinal constituents from plants.
4) Table:
Table refers to the organized presentation of data within the study, summarizing findings such as phytochemical components, inhibition zones, and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for various extracts. Tables offer a clear and accessible way to compare results across different treatments and bacterial strains.
5) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotic is a substance that inhibits bacterial growth or kills bacteria. The factor of antibiotics in the context of this study highlights the comparative effectiveness of Moringa extracts against known antibiotic treatments, underscoring the importance of exploring plant derivatives as alternative antimicrobial agents.
6) Species:
Species denotes the specific types of microorganisms targeted in the study, such as different strains of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Understanding species variations is essential for assessing the antimicrobial potency of Moringa extracts and informs potential treatment applications in healthcare.
7) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the research conducted to evaluate the antimicrobial properties and phytochemical characteristics of Moringa oleifera. This systematic investigation aims to provide scientific evidence for traditional uses of the plant and its potential applications in medicine and health care.
8) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the bioactive compounds present in plants, which have biological activity and therapeutic potential. The study explores the phytochemical profile of Moringa oleifera, identifying substances like flavonoids and alkaloids that contribute to its medicinal properties and antimicrobial effects.
9) Cutan:
Sudan is the geographical context in which this study was conducted. The relevance of Sudan lies in Moringa oleifera's traditional use in local health practices, thereby situating the research within a cultural and environmental framework that influences botany and medicine in the region.
10) Tree:
Tree refers to Moringa oleifera, a plant known for its nutritional and medicinal benefits. The study focuses on various parts of the tree (leaves, seeds, flowers) to assess their antimicrobial properties, demonstrating the significant role of trees in traditional medicine and potential health solutions.
11) India:
India is significant as the origin of Moringa oleifera, where its health benefits were widely recognized and utilized in traditional practices. The introduction of this plant to Sudan underscores its adaptability and the cross-cultural exchange of knowledge regarding plant-based remedies.
12) Flavonoid:
Flavonoid is a type of phytochemical found in Moringa oleifera that exhibits various biological activities, including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The identification of flavonoids plays a crucial role in understanding the therapeutic benefits of plant extracts in combating infections and diseases.
13) Measurement:
Measurement in this study involves quantifying the antimicrobial effects of Moringa extracts, specifically through the inhibition zones and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). These metrics are critical for evaluating the effectiveness of treatments and the potency of natural products in medicine.
14) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the scientific field concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. This study contributes to this field by exploring natural remedies such as Moringa oleifera, which may provide alternative or complementary options for managing infections and enhancing healthcare.
15) Disease:
Disease refers to the conditions being addressed in the study, primarily infections caused by various bacterial species. Understanding the antimicrobial activity of Moringa helps to investigate potential treatments for these diseases, reinforcing the medicinal value of traditional herbal remedies in modern healthcare.
16) Powder:
Powder refers to the form in which Moringa oleifera components (seeds, leaves, flowers) are processed for extraction in the study. The powdered form allows for efficient solvent extraction of bioactive compounds, facilitating better assessment of their antimicrobial properties in laboratory analyses.
17) Shahar (Sahar):
Sahar refers to one of the authors, Sahar M. Kheir, who contributed to the study. The mention of authors' names highlights the collaborative nature of research and gives credit to those who conducted the work, thereby recognizing their efforts in advancing scientific knowledge.
18) Sugar:
Sugar, specifically rhamnose found in Moringa oleifera, is relevant as a component of the plant's phytochemistry. Sugars can influence the bioavailability of other compounds and may be implicated in the overall health benefits attributed to the plant's extracts.
19) Purification:
Purification refers to the traditional use of Moringa oleifera for water purification. This historical context emphasizes the plant's significance in local health practices, linking it to the broader theme of utilizing natural resources for improving public health and hygiene.
20) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the analytical part of the study where authors interpret and contextualize their findings. It is crucial for relating research results to existing literature and drawing implications for future research, clinical practice, and understanding the antimicrobial potential of Moringa oleifera.
21) Developing:
Developing refers to the process of creating new knowledge or products in the context of finding alternative treatments for infections. This study contributes to the development of herbal medicine by evaluating the efficacy of Moringa oleifera as a potential resource against bacterial pathogens.
22) Knowledge:
Knowledge signifies the understanding gained through research about the antimicrobial properties of Moringa oleifera. This study adds to the existing body of knowledge on herbal medicines, promoting awareness of the potential benefits associated with natural products in combating bacterial infections.
23) Family:
Family refers to the taxonomic family Moringaceae, to which Moringa oleifera belongs. Understanding its classification is important in botany and medicinal studies as it helps identify related species with similar phytochemical properties and potential therapeutic uses.
24) Valley:
Valley refers to the geographical region where Moringa oleifera is cultivated. The environment in which a plant grows can affect its chemical composition, thus influencing the efficacy and potential applications of its extracts in medicine and herbal remedies.
25) Glass:
Glass pertains to the laboratory equipment used for handling and storing Moringa extracts (e.g., glass containers). Using glass ensures the purity of the extracts during analysis, thereby maintaining the integrity of the chemical properties being studied, essential for accurate results.
26) Horse:
Horse refers to the colloquial name 'horse radish tree,' which is another common name for Moringa oleifera. This name highlights the tree's cultural significance and the diverse terminology associated with the plant across different regions and languages.
27) Fever:
Fever, as a symptom often associated with infections, is relevant in understanding the context of diseases that Moringa oleifera may help treat. The traditional use of Moringa for ailments, including fevers, underscores the plant's importance in herbal medicine and folk healing practices.
28) Blood:
Blood refers to its relevance in health, particularly with various infections that can affect blood components. Understanding Moringa's antimicrobial properties may shed light on its potential in managing blood-related infections, reinforcing its value in traditional and modern medicine.
29) Food:
Food is significant in the context of nutritional benefits derived from Moringa oleifera, which is known for its rich nutrient profile. The study indirectly points to the role of Moringa as a functional food that combines dietary and medicinal advantages, enhancing overall health and wellbeing.
30) Rich (Rch):
Rich refers to the high content of bioactive compounds and nutrients present in Moringa oleifera, establishing it as a valuable resource in traditional and modern diets. Recognizing Moringa's richness encourages its use both as food and as herbal medicine for promoting health.
31) Soil:
Soil is essential for the growth and sustainability of Moringa oleifera, influencing its nutrient uptake and overall phytochemical content. Variations in soil composition can affect the efficacy of the plant's extracts, which is vital for understanding its medicinal properties and cultivation.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Antimicrobial and phytochemical traits of Moringa oleifera.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Phytochemical, Antibacterial activity, Antioxidant activity, Antimicrobial activities, Phytochemical screening, Antimicrobial activity, Zone of inhibition, Minimum inhibitory concentration, Moringa oleifera, Aqueous extract, Antibacterial effect, Staphylococcus aureus, Gram positive bacteria, Gram negative bacteria, Inhibition zone, Water extract, Ethanol extract, Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Alcoholic extract, Extract preparation, Bacterial strain, Streptococcus Pyogenes, Antipyretic properties, Plant Extract, S. aureus, Performance standards, Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, Agar diffusion method, Clinical isolate, Antibiotic susceptibility, Standard antibiotic, Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Alcohol extract, Indian medicinal plant, Listeria monocytogenes, Phytochemical component, Antimicrobial profile.