Antimicrobial and antifungal effects of Barleria acuminata extracts.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Antimicrobial and antifungal activity of barleria acuminata ness in ethanolic extract on different pathogens
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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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article discusses the antimicrobial and antifungal activities of Barleria acuminata, a plant in the Acanthaceae family, through an examination of its ethanol extracts. This study emerges from an ongoing need to discover new antimicrobial agents due to the increasing resistance of pathogenic microorganisms to conventional treatments. The research highlights B. acuminata’s potential as a natural source of effective antimicrobial properties while emphasizing the importance of exploring plant-derived compounds as alternatives to synthetic medications.
Antimicrobial Properties of Barleria acuminata
The study investigates the antibacterial efficacy of various extracts from the leaf, stem, and root of B. acuminata by applying the Agar well diffusion assay. The extracts were tested against different gram-positive bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis, as well as gram-negative bacteria, including Proteus vulgaris and Klebsiella aerogenes. The results showed that the leaf extract exhibited the highest antibacterial activity, particularly against S. aureus, with a zone of inhibition measuring 28 mm. In contrast, the root extract demonstrated the lowest antibacterial activity against K. aerogenes, with an inhibition zone of 8 mm.
Antifungal Activity of B. acuminata
In addition to antibacterial properties, the study also assessed the antifungal activity of B. acuminata extracts against two fungal strains: Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. The leaf and stem extracts exhibited significant antifungal activity, with the leaf extract showing a maximum inhibition zone of 28 mm for C. albicans and 26 mm for A. niger. This emphasizes the potential of B. acuminata as a useful agent in combating fungal infections, highlighting its role in traditional medicine as well as its promise for future therapeutic applications.
Importance of Natural Antimicrobial Agents
The investigation underscores the significance of exploring medicinal plants as viable sources for new antimicrobial agents. The study notes that numerous plant-derived metabolites, such as alkaloids and flavonoids, have been shown to possess antimicrobial properties, often with fewer side effects compared to synthetic drugs. Given the rising concerns surrounding antibiotic resistance and the socio-economic barriers to accessing expensive pharmaceuticals, research into plants like B. acuminata is crucial for developing effective and affordable alternatives to traditional antibiotics.
Conclusion
The findings of this study indicate that Barleria acuminata possesses notable antibacterial and antifungal activities in a dose-dependent manner. The research supports the plant's potential use as a natural antimicrobial agent that can contribute to treating infectious diseases. Overall, the study encourages further investigation into the pharmacological properties of B. acuminata and advocates for the integration of plant-based medicines into contemporary healthcare practices, especially in the face of increasing microbial resistance to conventional treatments.
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.
Karthikeyan, Baskaran and Sebastian Rajasekaran
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Antimicrobial and antifungal activity of barleria acuminata ness in ethanolic extract on different pathogens
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201710-9350
Download the PDF file of the original publication
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the objective of the study on Barleria acuminata?
The study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and antifungal activity of ethanolic extracts from various parts of Barleria acuminata against different pathogens.
How were the extracts of Barleria acuminata prepared for the study?
The plant parts (leaf, stem, root) were shade dried, powdered, and subjected to successive solvent extraction using ethanol followed by filtration and concentration.
What method was used to assess antimicrobial activity in the research?
Antimicrobial activity was tested using the Agar well diffusion assay, measuring the zone of inhibition for bacteria and fungi.
Which microorganisms were tested against the Barleria acuminata extracts?
The study tested extracts against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Proteus vulgaris, Klebsiella aerogenes, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger.
What were the results of the antimicrobial activity tests?
The extracts showed varying zones of inhibition, with the leaf extract providing the highest activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans.
What conclusion can be drawn from the study on Barleria acuminata?
The study concluded that the antimicrobial and antifungal activity of Barleria acuminata extracts increases with dosage, indicating its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antimicrobial and antifungal effects of Barleria acuminata extracts.”. 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' refers to the biological effects that substances, like extracts from Barleria acuminata, can exert on microorganisms. In this study, it specifically relates to the antibacterial and antifungal efficacy observed in various test pathogens, demonstrating the effectiveness of the plant extracts in inhibiting microbial growth.
2) Medium:
In microbiological studies, 'medium' typically refers to the nutrient-rich solutions used to culture microorganisms. In this research, both Nutrient Agar and Sabouraud Dextrose Agar were utilized as mediums to assess the growth of bacteria and fungi, respectively, highlighting their importance in facilitating microbial studies.
3) Drug:
'Drug' denotes a substance used for medical treatment. In the context of this research, plant-derived compounds from Barleria acuminata serve as potential drugs for combating bacterial and fungal infections. The study emphasizes the search for effective drugs amidst growing antibiotic resistance in pathogens.
4) Water:
'Water' is crucial in the extraction process of phytochemicals. It is used as a solvent in preparing extracts from Barleria acuminata, enabling the solubility of active compounds. The presence of clean, sterile water is essential in scientific experiments to avoid contamination and ensure reliable results.
5) India:
'India' refers to the geographic location where Barleria acuminata is commonly found and studied. The herbal and traditional medicine practices in India have a long history, making the exploration of native plants for antibacterial and antifungal properties particularly relevant for local healthcare applications.
6) Disease:
'Disease' signifies pathological conditions caused by microorganisms. The study addresses the burden of infectious diseases, underscoring the need for effective antimicrobial agents derived from natural sources like Barleria acuminata, which can potentially assist in combating these health challenges effectively.
7) Study (Studying):
'Study' embodies the systematic investigation conducted to assess the antimicrobial properties of Barleria acuminata. The research employs rigorous methodologies to assess efficacy, drawing conclusions that contribute to understanding the potential of plant extracts as viable alternatives to synthetic antibiotics.
8) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
'Antibiotic' refers to substances that eliminate or inhibit bacteria. Though synthetic antibiotics have been widely used, the emergence of resistance necessitates the exploration of natural alternatives, such as plant-derived compounds from Barleria acuminata, which may provide effective solutions to treat bacterial infections.
9) Medicine:
'Medicine' denotes substances or practices used to treat illness or promote healing. The study emphasizes traditional herbal medicine's relevance, particularly that of Barleria acuminata, in providing medicinal properties that can contribute to modern therapeutic approaches and alternative treatments.
10) Heating:
'Heating' is a critical process in preparing microbial growth media and extracting compounds from plant materials. It ensures that the nutrients dissolve properly and that any potential contaminants are eliminated. Proper temperature control during this process is essential for successful experimentation.
11) Aureus:
'Aureus' refers to Staphylococcus aureus, a significant pathogenic bacterium tested in this study. It is known for causing various infections and poses a healthcare challenge due to its antibiotic resistance. Investigating natural treatments against it is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies.
12) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
'Tamilnadu' is synonymous with Tamil Nadu, indicating the geographical and cultural context of the study. The region is known for its rich flora and traditional healing practices, further contributing to the relevance of local medicinal plants in contemporary healthcare.
13) Container:
'Container' is used for storing the powdered extracts of Barleria acuminata. Ensuring extracts are kept in airtight containers preserves their integrity and potency, preventing degradation and contamination, which is vital for reliable scientific research and results.
14) Species:
'Species' refers to a group of organisms capable of interbreeding. In this study, Barleria acuminata represents a plant species potentially rich in antimicrobial compounds. Understanding different species' biological activities can lead to discovering novel therapeutic agents for human health.
15) Surface:
'Surface' pertains to the physical aspects of plant parts like leaves and stems. The surface characteristics may affect how extracts interact with microorganisms, influencing the efficacy of antimicrobial activity, thus playing a critical role in experimental outcomes.
16) Trichy:
'Trichy' signifies the city in Tamil Nadu where the research took place. Its geographical location is relevant due to its diverse plant life and traditional knowledge, contributing to the study of local medicinal plants like Barleria acuminata.
17) Family:
'Family' identifies the classification group for Barleria acuminata within the Acanthaceae family. Understanding its familial relationships helps categorize plants based on shared characteristics, facilitating studies related to pharmacological properties and ecological significance.
18) Botany:
'Botany' is the scientific study of plants. In this research, botanical knowledge is fundamental for understanding plant properties, classification, and the potential uses of Barleria acuminata as a source of antimicrobial agents against pathogens.
19) Table:
'Table' refers to the organized presentation of data, summarizing experimental results on the antimicrobial activity of Barleria acuminata. Tables are essential in communicating complex information succinctly, allowing for easier comparisons and analysis of findings.
20) Tamil:
'Tamil' relates to the language and culture of Tamil Nadu. It encompasses the traditional medicinal knowledge that guides the use of plants like Barleria acuminata, emphasizing cultural relevance in understanding the role of such plants in healthcare.
21) Blood:
'Blood' pertains to the biological fluid essential for carrying nutrients and oxygen in organisms. The reference to blood may relate to using animal-derived substances in experiments, highlighting ethical considerations in research and the importance of using safe and effective alternatives.
22) Nadu:
'Nadu' is part of Tamil Nadu, emphasizing the region's cultural significance and diversity. The practices in this area often include using local plant species in traditional medicine, reinforcing the study's connection to cultural and geographical contexts.
23) Pune:
'Pune' is the city where the test organisms were procured, indicating the collaboration between research institutions. The accessibility of diverse microbial strains from facilities in Pune enriches the study's scope, providing a robust basis for testing antimicrobial efficacy.
24) Human life:
'Human life' signifies the subject of health and disease addressed in this study. The focus on antimicrobial activity from plants like Barleria acuminata reflects the ongoing effort to enhance human health through natural remedies amidst growing microbial resistance.
25) Chemotherapy:
'Chemotherapy' refers to the treatment of diseases, primarily cancer, using drugs. In this context, it extends to using chemical agents, including antibiotics, against infectious diseases, emphasizing the need for developing alternatives in the face of resistance and adverse effects.
26) Observation:
'Observation' denotes systematic examination during experiments. This study relies on careful observations of the antimicrobial effects of Barleria acuminata extracts, thus underpinning a scientific approach to understanding and validating the plant's potential uses in medicine.
27) Developing:
'Developing' highlights the ongoing process of creating new solutions in the face of challenges. The research symbolizes the broader goal of developing new antimicrobial agents from plants to combat the escalating issue of antibiotic resistance affecting global health.
28) Science (Scientific):
'Scientific' pertains to the methodology used throughout the research. Emphasizing a scientific approach underscores the rigors of experimental design and analysis, contributing to the credibility and reliability of findings regarding the antimicrobial properties of Barleria acuminata.
29) Substance:
'Substance' refers to the chemical compounds derived from Barleria acuminata explored for antimicrobial activity. The nature of these substances and their interactions with pathogens are fundamental to understanding how plant-based extracts can offer therapeutic benefits.
30) Village:
'Village' represents the traditional and rural settings from which many medicinal plants are sourced, including Barleria acuminata. The relationship between rural communities and their natural environment emphasizes the significance of traditional knowledge in accessing and utilizing local medicinal resources.
31) Pouring:
'Pouring' describes the method of distributing the melted agar medium into petri dishes during experimentation. Proper pouring techniques ensure even distribution, crucial for uniformity in microbial testing, affecting the accuracy of results in assessing antimicrobial effectiveness.
32) Forest:
'Forest' alludes to the natural habitats where medicinal plants like Barleria acuminata thrive. Understanding the ecological context and biodiversity is vital for conservation efforts and sustainable utilization of plant resources for modern medical applications.
33) Nature:
'Nature' emphasizes the intrinsic value of the biological world, highlighting the harmony between humans and the environment. The study's focus on plant-derived antimicrobial agents reflects an appreciation for nature's ability to provide solutions for health and healing.
34) Powder:
'Powder' refers to the processed form of plant parts used in the extraction process. The preparation of powdered samples ensures effective solubilization of active compounds during extraction, playing a crucial role in determining the efficiency of subsequent antimicrobial tests.
35) Cotton:
'Cotton' typically refers to the material used for filtering and securing culture media and samples. In laboratory practices, cotton serves as a barrier to prevent contamination, ensuring a sterile environment crucial for accurate and reliable scientific research.
36) Indian:
'Indian' pertains to the geographical and cultural identity connected with the study, enhancing the understanding of local flora, traditional practices in medicine, and the innovative approaches emerging from this rich biodiversity in herbal research.
37) Field:
'Field' signifies the area of study or research focus. In this context, it relates specifically to the exploration of phytochemistry and pharmacology concerning Barleria acuminata and its potential applications in medicine within the broader field of botany.
38) Fever:
'Fever' is a common health condition often indicating infection. The study discusses the traditional uses of Barleria acuminata in treating ailments like fever, underscoring the relevance of this plant in contemporary health discussions and the search for effective herbal remedies.
39) Meat:
'Meat' refers to animal tissue often used in microbiological culture media as a source of nutrients for bacterial growth. The mention of meat extract indicates the use of specific nutrient sources to cultivate test organisms in the study.
40) Pose:
'Pose' illustrates the challenges or risks involved in treating infections. The emergence of antibiotic resistance within pathogenic strains poses a considerable threat to public health. This underlines the necessity for research into alternative antimicrobial sources, including plant extracts.
41) Soil:
'Soil' serves as the natural substrate in which plants grow. The health of the soil influences plant quality and secondary metabolite production. In this study, clean soil is essential for cultivating the medicinal plant Barleria acuminata, ensuring its integrity for research.
42) Life:
'Life' encompasses all living organisms, including plants, bacteria, and humans. The study reflects an intersection between human health and ecological systems, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity and natural resources in developing treatments for health issues that afflict life on Earth.