In vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of ginger extract

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: In vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of methanolic extract of zingiber officinale
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.

Author:

Sadia Tasnim, Md. Hasan-Al Jubayed, Md. Nazmul Hossain, Farzana Hossain, Rafiul Islam, Md. Yousuf Al Amin and Naznin Pervin


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: In vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of methanolic extract of zingiber officinale

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201818-13704


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The article presents a research study focused on the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the methanolic extract of Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger. The study emphasizes the importance of medicinal plants and their applications in various domains, including healthcare. Given that over 80% of Asia's population relies on medicinal plants for primary health care, the investigation into the efficacy of ginger highlights its historical significance as a traditional remedy known for both culinary and medicinal uses.

Antimicrobial Activity of Ginger

The research utilized the disc diffusion method to assess the antimicrobial effects of Zingiber officinale. The study found that the methanolic extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity, with an average zone of inhibition ranging from 11 mm to 19 mm against various pathogenic bacteria. Notably, the extract demonstrated the strongest antibacterial effect on Salmonella paratyphi, achieving an inhibition zone of 19 mm, whereas the weakest antibacterial action was observed against Bacillus subtilis with an 11 mm inhibition zone. This indicates the potential of ginger extract in combating certain bacterial infections and suggests further exploration into its application in medicinal products.

Antioxidant Activity Assessment

In addition to evaluating antimicrobial properties, the study also investigated the antioxidant activity of ginger using the DPPH free radical scavenging method. The results indicated that the methanolic extract of Zingiber officinale exhibited moderate antioxidant potential with an IC50 value of 239.16 µg/ml. This suggests that ginger could serve as a valuable source of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and related diseases. The findings position ginger extract as a potentially beneficial supplement for improving health and wellness by providing protective effects against free radicals.

Methodology and Extraction

The methodology employed for this research involved meticulous steps, including the collection, drying, pulverization, and extraction of ginger rhizomes. The methanolic extraction process involved specific ratios of sample to solvent and careful filtration to yield concentrated extracts suitable for antimicrobial and antioxidant assays. Similarly, the study's rigorous design, including the careful preparation of agar media and consistency in antimicrobial testing, underscores the reliability of the results. This systematic approach highlights the importance of methodical procedures in obtaining valid and reproducible findings in herbal research.

Conclusion

The study effectively demonstrates the significant antimicrobial and antioxidant potentials of the methanolic extract of Zingiber officinale. With a notable zone of inhibition against Salmonella paratyphi and a respectable antioxidant capacity, ginger emerges as a promising candidate for further exploration in pharmacological applications. The findings not only support traditional uses of ginger but also pave the way for scientific validation and potential commercialization of ginger-based health products. Continued research in this field can contribute to the enhancement of natural remedies, providing both health benefits and a deeper understanding of the efficacy of medicinal plants.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the main purpose of studying Zingiber officinale extracts?

The study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of methanolic extracts of Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger.

Which method was used to test antimicrobial activity in this study?

The antimicrobial activity was tested using the disc diffusion method, comparing the inhibition zones of the ginger extract with those of standard antibiotics.

What were the results regarding the antimicrobial activity of ginger extract?

The methanol extract showed significant antibacterial activity, with a maximum zone of inhibition of 19 mm against Salmonella paratyphi.

How was the antioxidant activity of the ginger extract measured?

Antioxidant activity was measured using the DPPH free radical scavenging method, comparing the extract's effectiveness with that of ascorbic acid.

What was the LC50 value for the methanol extract in this study?

The LC50 value for the methanol extract of Zingiber officinale was found to be 239.17 µg/ml, indicating moderate antioxidant potential.

Who contributed significantly to the research project on ginger?

Dr. Md. Siddiqul Islam, Chairman of the Pharmacy Department at Southeast University, provided continuous supervision and support for the research project.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “In vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of ginger extract”. 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 in the context of the study refers to the specific actions or effects of the methanolic extract of Zingiber officinale, particularly its antimicrobial and antioxidant capabilities. These activities were measured through methods such as the disc diffusion and DPPH assays to evaluate its potential as a natural remedy against bacteria and oxidative stress.

2) Zingiber officinale:
Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is a widely-used medicinal plant belonging to the Zingiberaceae family. The study focuses on its rhizome, exploring its chemical properties and health benefits, particularly its antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, contributing to its reputation as a beneficial herbal medicine in various traditional practices.

3) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Anti-bacterial specifically refers to agents or substances that inhibit the growth of bacteria. The study investigates the anti-bacterial properties of the methanol extract of Zingiber officinale, aiming to validate its traditional use as a natural treatment for infections caused by various pathogenic bacteria.

4) Water:
Water is a crucial solvent used in the preparation and extraction processes within the study. It serves as a medium for washing the rhizomes and diluting certain extracts. The reliance on water underscores its importance in preparing samples for testing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, ensuring optimal extraction of the compounds.

5) Study (Studying):
Study denotes the research effort undertaken to evaluate the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of Zingiber officinale. It encompasses the methodologies, results, and discussions that illustrate the extract's potential uses in medicine. The systematic investigation aims to provide scientific backing for traditional practices involving ginger as a therapeutic agent.

6) Table:
Table refers to the organized presentation of data within the research, summarizing findings on the antibacterial effectiveness of Zingiber officinale against various microorganisms. Tables provide clarity on measurements like the zone of inhibition and support the discussion on results, enabling readers to quickly access key information and comparisons.

7) Medicine:
Medicine pertains to the field of health and treatment where Zingiber officinale is recognized for its properties. The research explores ginger's historical and contemporary use in medicinal applications, particularly in traditional systems, including Ayurveda and modern pharmacology, highlighting its potential role in healthcare as a natural remedy.

8) Medium:
Medium in this study typically refers to the nutrient agar used to culture bacteria during antimicrobial testing. It serves as the growth environment for microorganisms, enabling researchers to observe the effects of the rhizome extract. Additionally, medium can denote the solvent system used during extraction processes.

9) Drug:
Drug refers to a substance used for treating, preventing, or diagnosing disease. The research evaluates the possibility of Zingiber officinale to be utilized as a natural drug due to its observed antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, supporting the idea of plant-based therapies in contemporary medicine and pharmacognosy research.

10) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical denotes the bioactive compounds derived from plants, which are responsible for their medicinal properties. In this study, the focus is on identifying the specific phytochemicals in Zingiber officinale that contribute to its antibacterial and antioxidant activities, providing insight into its efficacy and potential health benefits.

11) Species:
Species refers to the specific group of organisms that share common characteristics. In the study, the term highlights Zingiber officinale as a distinct species within the Zingiberaceae family. The research emphasizes its unique phytochemical profile and biological activity, distinguishing it from other medicinal plants.

12) India:
India is significant in this context as it is a historical and contemporary center for the use of Zingiber officinale in traditional medicine. The study acknowledges ginger's role in Indian and Ayurvedic practices, demonstrating its importance in herbal medicine and the cultural heritage tied to its therapeutic applications.

13) Food:
Food relates to the broader usage of Zingiber officinale, where it is not only valued for medicinal properties but also as a spice and flavoring agent in culinary practices. The dual role of ginger underscores its significance in diet and health, linking nutrition with wellness and therapeutic benefits.

14) Discussion:
Discussion in the research context involves interpreting the results obtained from the antimicrobial and antioxidant tests. It provides an analysis of findings, comparing them with existing literature and emphasizing the implications of these results for future research and practical applications of Zingiber officinale in medicine.

15) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to the rigorous and systematic approach employed in the study to assess Zingiber officinale's properties. By utilizing established research methodologies and presenting results in an empirical manner, the study aligns with the broader scientific pursuit of validating traditional medicinal claims through quantifiable data and analysis.

16) Substance:
Substance in this research refers to the extract from Zingiber officinale rhizomes or the individual compounds present. The study evaluates how these substances exhibit specific biological activities, such as antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, contributing to a deeper understanding of plant-derived remedies and their applications.

17) Container:
Container refers to the apparatus used to store or process the plant material, such as round bottom flasks for extraction or airtight containers for storing the powdered rhizome. Proper containment is essential for ensuring the integrity and stability of the extracts during the research process.

18) Aureus:
Aureus specifically refers to Staphylococcus aureus, a gram-positive bacterium tested in the study for its susceptibility to Zingiber officinale extracts. The results against this organism are critical, as Staphylococcus aureus is a common pathogen responsible for various infections, highlighting ginger’s potential as a therapeutic agent against such bacteria.

19) Cina:
China is relevant as it is one of the regions where Zingiber officinale is widely cultivated and utilized in both culinary and medicinal practices. The study acknowledges the plant's historical significance in Chinese medicine, contributing to the understanding of its global application and relevance in traditional healing systems.

20) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the study of drug action and the effects of medications, emphasizing the investigation of Zingiber officinale through this scientific lens. The research highlights the need for pharmacological assessment of natural substances, contributing to the development of herbal medicines backed by empirical evidence.

21) Surrounding:
Surrounding refers to the conditions and environmental factors influencing the efficacy of medicinal plants. The study recognizes that the effectiveness of Zingiber officinale may depend on various external variables, including preparation methods and microbial contexts, thereby impacting its potential therapeutic applications.

22) Measurement:
Measurement in the research refers to the quantification of the antibacterial and antioxidant activities observed in the study. Through standardized methods, researchers assess the efficacy of Zingiber officinale extracts, emphasizing the importance of reliable metrics in validating traditional medicinal claims and facilitating scientific discourse.

23) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda refers to the traditional Indian system of medicine where Zingiber officinale has been extensively used. The study connects ginger’s medicinal applications within Ayurvedic practices, underscoring the significance of integrating ancient wisdom with modern scientific investigation to promote plant-based health solutions.

24) Relative:
Relative in this context indicates the comparison of Zingiber officinale's properties to other substances or methods within the study. It highlights the importance of understanding degrees of effectiveness and potential interactions among various plant extracts or pharmacological agents in assessing overall therapeutic capabilities.

25) Disease:
Disease refers to the pathological conditions that Zingiber officinale may help alleviate or treat through its antibacterial and antioxidant activities. The study aims to provide evidence for its applications in addressing specific ailments, bolstering the argument for incorporating natural remedies into contemporary healthcare practices.

26) Account:
Account refers to the detailed record or report provided in the study regarding the properties and effects of Zingiber officinale. The research offers an account of its traditional uses as well as empirical findings, thereby documenting and validating its significance in both historical and modern contexts.

27) Family:
Family denotes the classification category for Zingiber officinale within botanical taxonomy, specifically the Zingiberaceae family. The familial classification helps contextualize the plant among others with similar characteristics, which may also provide insight into shared properties relevant to antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

28) Insect:
Insect refers to pests that medicinal plants, including Zingiber officinale, may naturally repel due to their phytochemical properties. The study highlights the ecological role of ginger in agricultural practices, adding another dimension to its value, both as a medicinal and as a pest-repellent plant.

29) Powder:
Powder relates to the form of Zingiber officinale when the dried rhizomes are ground down for extraction and testing. The powdered state increases the surface area available for solvent interaction, enhancing the extraction of desirable phytochemicals, which are then analyzed for their biological activities.

30) Cotton:
Cotton may refer to the sterile materials used in the study to handle samples or cultures, ensuring hygienic conditions during microbial testing and reducing contamination risks. Maintaining sterility is crucial for accurate results when evaluating the antimicrobial efficacy of plant extracts against specific microorganisms.

31) Wall:
Wall in this context may signify the structural component of cells within the plant or microorganisms. Understanding the cell wall properties is important in microbiology, as these features can influence the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial agents, including extracts from Zingiber officinale.

Let's grow together!

I humbly request your help to keep doing what I do best: provide the world with unbiased sources, definitions and images. Your donation direclty influences the quality and quantity of knowledge, wisdom and spiritual insight the world is exposed to.

Let's make the world a better place together!

Like what you read? Consider supporting this website: