Comparative antibacterial study of guava leaf extract vs. gentamicin.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Comparative study of antibacterial activity of leaf extract of guava with gentamycin against gram positive and gram negative bacteria
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.
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Psidium guajava, commonly known as guava, is a tropical fruit recognized for both its nutritional and medicinal properties. The leaves of guava have been traditionally utilized in various medicinal systems for their therapeutic benefits. The study conducted by Chaudhari et al. evaluates the antibacterial activity of guava leaf extracts against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, specifically Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Through various extraction methods, the researchers aimed to ascertain the efficacy of the leaf extracts compared to the standard antibiotic gentamycin.
Antibacterial Efficacy of Guava Leaf Extracts
The primary objective of the research was to assess the antibacterial properties of guava leaf extracts. The study employed a disc diffusion method to measure the zones of inhibition caused by the extracts on bacterial pathogens. Findings indicated that the methanolic extract of guava leaves exhibited significant antibacterial activity, particularly against E. coli, where a maximum inhibition zone of 9 mm was observed. Comparatively, gentamycin, a well-known antibiotic, produced zones of inhibition measuring 21 mm against S. aureus and 7 mm against E. coli, demonstrating that guava leaf extracts may offer a natural alternative for combating bacterial infections.
Extraction Techniques and Phytochemical Analysis
The study involved various extraction methods, including Soxhlet extraction using solvents like petroleum ether and methanol. The results displayed a notable yield of both petroleum ether and methanolic extracts, indicating that the choice of solvent affects the extraction efficiency of bioactive compounds. In addition to antibacterial testing, a thorough phytochemical analysis was conducted to identify the presence of bioactive compounds such as saponins, phenols, tannins, terpenoids, flavonoids, and glycosides. The identification of these compounds in guava leaf extracts underscores their potential medicinal applications, particularly in antimicrobial formulations.
Comparative Analysis with Commercial Antibiotics
The results of the study not only highlighted the antibacterial properties of guava leaf extracts but also provided a comparison with commercial antibiotics. The gentamycin control demonstrated significant inhibition against both bacterial strains, but the guava extracts still showcased appreciable antibacterial activity. This comparison illustrates the potential of traditional medicinal plants like guava to complement or provide alternatives to synthetic antibiotics, especially in an era where antibiotic resistance is on the rise.
Conclusion
In summary, the research conducted by Chaudhari et al. emphasizes the antibacterial potential of Psidium guajava leaf extracts against common bacterial pathogens such as E. coli and S. aureus. The study highlights the importance of exploring natural sources for antibacterial agents, which could contribute to the development of new treatments that mitigate the impacts of antibiotic resistance. The findings advocate for further investigation into the phytochemical constituents of guava leaves and their mechanisms of action, supporting the use of traditional remedies in modern therapeutic applications.
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.
S. B. Chaudhari, Dr. N. H. Indurwade, Pooja Kadramekar and Megha Wanjari
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Comparative study of antibacterial activity of leaf extract of guava with gentamycin against gram positive and gram negative bacteria
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201710-9319
Download the PDF file of the original publication
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the study?
The study compares the antibacterial activity of guava leaf extracts with gentamicin against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, specifically Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
How were the guava leaf extracts prepared for testing?
Guava leaves were shade dried, ground into powder, and then subjected to Soxhlet extraction using solvents including petroleum ether, methanol, ethanol, and water to obtain the extracts.
Which bacteria showed more susceptibility to guava leaf extracts?
The extracts of guava leaves inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli more effectively than Staphylococcus aureus, indicating a stronger antibacterial effect against the former.
What method was used to assess antibacterial activity?
The agar well diffusion method was employed, wherein bacterial cultures were placed on agar plates, and plant extracts were added to observe zones of inhibition.
What phytochemicals were tested in the guava leaf extracts?
The extracts were tested for the presence of saponins, phenols, tannins, terpenoids, flavonoids, and glycosides using standard chemical tests to identify bioactive compounds.
What were the results of the antibacterial activity testing?
Guava leaf extracts demonstrated notable antibacterial effects, with inhibition zones measured in millimeters, indicating their potential as sources of antibacterial agents.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Comparative antibacterial study of guava leaf extract vs. gentamicin.”. 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:
The term 'Activity' often refers to the effect or performance of a substance, particularly in the context of biological activity. In this study, it emphasizes the ability of guava leaf extracts to inhibit the growth of specific bacteria, showcasing their potential use as natural antibacterial agents.
2) Aureus:
This term refers to 'Staphylococcus aureus', a gram-positive bacterium known for causing a variety of infections. It is significant in this study as one of the bacterial strains against which the guava extracts' antibacterial activity was tested, highlighting the relevance of combating this common pathogen.
3) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
The term 'Antibiotic' generally describes substances used to kill or inhibit bacterial growth. In this study, gentamicin serves as a standard reference antibiotic, allowing for comparison between synthetic and natural antibacterial activities of guava leaf extracts against specific pathogens.
4) Powder:
In this context, 'Powder' refers to the fine consistency of the dried guava leaves after pulverization. The powdered form is essential for extraction processes, enabling the release of bioactive compounds that exhibit antibacterial properties when tested against selected bacterial strains.
5) Patel:
The term 'Patel' is a reference to the institution associated with the researchers and corresponds to the specific context of their work. Manoharbhai Patel Institute of Pharmacy, where the research was conducted, highlights the academic and geographical setting of the study.
6) Table:
In scientific research, 'Table' refers to a structured arrangement of data that presents findings clearly. Tables in this study summarize important results, such as inhibition zones of bacterial growth by guava leaf extracts and antibiotic controls, which aids in comparative analysis.
7) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the chemical compounds produced by plants, which often play a role in plant defense mechanisms. The study evaluates phytochemical constituents in guava leaves, assessing their significance in exhibiting antibacterial properties and their potential medicinal uses.
8) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a class of phytochemicals widely recognized for their antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The study analyzes the presence of flavonoids in guava leaf extracts, establishing their potential role in the observed antibacterial activity, hence their importance in medicinal plant research.
9) Family:
In botanical terms, 'Family' is a higher taxonomic rank that groups plants based on shared characteristics. The guava plant belongs to the Myrtaceae family, which is relevant for understanding its biological classification and potential similarities in medicinal properties with other family members.
10) India:
The mention of 'India' pertains to the geographical origin of the guava leaf samples used in the study. The region's traditional usage of guava in various forms underlines its cultural and medicinal significance, showcasing India's rich herbal heritage.
11) Species:
'Species' is a fundamental category in biological classification. In the context of this study, it refers to the specific bacteria (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) tested for sensitivity against guava leaf extracts, which is crucial for understanding the extracts' effectiveness.
12) Surface:
The term 'Surface' generally denotes the outer layer or boundary of a medium. In this study, the agar surface is the area on which bacterial growth occurs and where the effects of guava leaf extracts are visually measured and assessed for inhibition zones.
13) Water:
In this context, 'Water' refers to one of the solvents used for extracting elements from guava leaves. Its role in extraction processes demonstrates the versatility of solvents in isolating bioactive compounds, highlighting water's importance as a natural and non-toxic medium in herbal extractions.
14) Study (Studying):
The term 'Study' signifies the systematic investigation conducted to evaluate the antibacterial properties of guava leaf extracts. This research contributes to scientific knowledge regarding plant-based alternatives to conventional antibiotics, demonstrating the relevance of herbal medicine in modern health care.
15) Observation:
'Observation' is a key phase in scientific research where results are noted and analyzed. In this study, researchers observe the effects of guava leaf extracts on bacterial growth, providing critical insights into their antibacterial capabilities and supporting further research.
16) Container:
The term 'Container' in this context refers to the vessel used to store guava leaf powder during the extraction process. Proper containment is crucial for preventing contamination and preserving the integrity of the plant material until further analysis or usage is required.
17) Medicine:
The term 'Medicine' denotes the science or practice of treating illnesses. In this study, it emphasizes the importance of exploring natural medicine sources, such as guava leaf extracts, to discover new antibacterial agents, crucial in addressing public health challenges.
18) Disease:
'Disease' refers to pathological conditions caused by infectious agents, such as bacteria. The study aims to discover plant-based treatments that could help combat bacterial diseases, illuminating the significance of researching natural remedies in today's medical landscape.
19) Science (Scientific):
'Science' embodies the systematic exploration of natural phenomena. This study contributes to the field of pharmacology by examining the antibacterial properties of plant extracts, showcasing the scientific method's relevance in validating traditional knowledge and advancing medicinal research.
20) Medium:
In microbiological terms, 'Medium' refers to the nutrient-rich substance used to cultivate microorganisms. In this study, the agar medium is essential for growing the bacterial strains to assess the antibacterial potency of the guava leaf extracts effectively.
21) Cotton:
The term 'Cotton' in this context refers to the cotton swab used to inoculate the agar plates with bacterial cultures. It is a common tool in microbiological procedures, facilitating even distribution and accurate testing of the antibacterial effects of various extracts.
22) Filling (Filled):
The term 'Filled' talks about the process of dispensing plant extracts into the wells created in the agar medium during the antimicrobial assay. This step is fundamental to the experimental process, ensuring that each well contains the treatment necessary for assessing antibacterial activity.
23) Megha:
Megha refers to one of the authors involved in the study. The inclusion of author names emphasizes the collaborative nature of scientific research, illustrating the contributions of individuals from specific institutions towards advancements in medicinal plant studies.
24) Kabir:
Kabir references another author's contribution to the research. This name links the work to the broader academic community and individual expertise, showcasing collaboration in the pursuit of understanding the antibacterial potentials of natural substances.
25) Pooja:
Pooja represents another individual involved in the study's team. The inclusion of female names highlights the importance of diverse contributions in research settings and the promotion of gender equality in the scientific community.
26) Lemon:
'Lemon' is associated with another type of guava, known as lemon guava. Although not the focus of this study, mentioning lemon guava alludes to the diversity among guava species and their varying characteristics, enriching the knowledge base of the Myrtaceae family.
27) Arya:
Arya indicates another researcher contributing to the study. Mentioning individual researchers emphasizes academic collaboration while reflecting the diverse expertise brought together in researching the antibacterial properties of guava leaves.
28) Genu:
Genu likely relates to 'genus', a taxonomic rank used in biological classification. Although not explicitly stated, its association underscores the importance of proper classification and understanding of species when conducting scientific research on plants and their medicinal properties.
29) Food:
'Food' relates to the nutritional value of guava, highlighting its dual role as both a consumable item and a source of medicinal compounds. The exploration of edible plants underscores their significance in providing essential nutrients and potential health benefits.
30) Tree:
The term 'Tree' characterizes the guava's growth form, being a small tree in the Myrtaceae family. Understanding the plant's structure and habitat contributes to appreciating its ecological role and potential for cultivation in various environments.
31) Wall:
'Wall' in the context of this study could refer to the boundary of the agar plates used for testing. The wall's significance lies in its role in isolating each well for controlled measurement of inhibition zones, emphasizing precise experimental design in microbiology.
32) Drug:
The term 'Drug' is used to refer to substances that exert pharmacological effects. This study investigates natural alternatives to synthetic drugs, showcasing guava leaf extracts as potential candidates for herbal medicines in combating bacterial infections, essential in modern pharmacotherapy.