Antimicrobial studies of some selected medicinal plants
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Antimicrobial studies of some selected medicinal plants
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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R. Udaya Kumar, V. Hazeena Begum
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Antimicrobial studies of some selected medicinal plants
Year: 2002
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study investigates the antimicrobial properties of five selected medicinal plants, namely Achyranthes aspera, Ficus glomerata, Leucas aspera, Thespesia populnea, and Zizyphus jujube. These plants are traditionally used for their medicinal values in Ayurveda and the Unani system of medicine. The research highlights the growing reliance on plant-based treatments for various ailments, which often surpasses the use of modern pharmaceuticals in rural populations in India. The findings aim to support the therapeutic potential of these plants, particularly against common bacterial pathogens like Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Salmonella typhi.
Efficacy of Antimicrobial Activity
The antimicrobial activity of the 80% ethanolic extracts from the selected medicinal plants was assessed by measuring the zone of inhibition against the tested bacteria. Results indicated that Leucas aspera demonstrated the highest sensitivity against E. coli with a zone of inhibition of 15 mm, while Ficus glomerata showed significant activity against K. pneumoniae with a 15 mm zone. Notably, the study categorized the sensitivity of the extracts based on the measured inhibition zones, establishing that those above 12 mm were considered highly sensitive, while those below 6 mm were resistant. This classification underscores the varying degrees of antibacterial effectiveness of the tested plants, suggesting that they may contain bioactive compounds responsible for their antimicrobial properties.
Conclusion
The research concludes that the selected Indian medicinal plants exhibit promising antimicrobial properties against certain pathogenic bacteria, supporting their traditional use in folk medicine. Furthermore, the study opens avenues for further research into isolating and understanding the specific antimicrobial compounds present in these plants, which could lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents. Acknowledgments were given to contributors who assisted in the identification of plants and execution of the antimicrobial studies, emphasizing the collaborative effort in exploring the medicinal potential of these plant species.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the aim of the antimicrobial study?
The study aimed to determine the antimicrobial properties of five selected medicinal plants against bacteria, specifically Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Salmonella typhi, highlighting their potential as antibiotic agents.
How were the medicinal plants collected for the study?
Medicinal plants were collected in Udayanatham village, Tamil Nadu, during April and May 1999. Only mature parts of the plants were chosen for antimicrobial studies to ensure proper extraction and effectiveness.
What method was used to extract compounds from the plants?
The extraction involved using 80% ethanol at 60-80掳C through continuous hot percolation with a Soxhlet apparatus for 24 hours, followed by filtration and evaporation to obtain a concentrated residue.
What are the results of the antimicrobial activity tests?
The extracts showed varying zones of inhibition against the tested bacteria, with extracts yielding high sensitivity, especially F. glomerata against K. pneumoniae and L. aspera against E. coli, indicating notable antimicrobial potential.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淎ntimicrobial studies of some selected medicinal plants鈥�. 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' in this context refers to the biological effects exhibited by the extracts of the selected medicinal plants. In this study, it specifically pertains to the antimicrobial activity against specific bacteria, highlighting the potential therapeutic roles of these plants in managing infections. Activities are often quantified by measuring inhibitory zones against pathogens.
2) Science (Scientific):
Here, 'Science' denotes the systematic study of knowledge, particularly related to the properties and applications of medicinal plants. This research exemplifies the scientific method by rigorously testing hypotheses regarding antimicrobial properties and integrating empirical evidence to validate traditional uses of plants in medicine, thereby bridging folklore and modern scientific inquiry.
3) Medicine:
The term 'Medicine' encompasses the practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses, and in this study, it highlights the application of medicinal plants in healthcare. These plants serve as natural alternatives or complements to conventional treatments, reflecting the rich history of indigenous practices in therapeutic contexts, especially in Ayurveda and Siddha systems.
4) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
'Antibiotic' refers to agents that combat bacterial infections, either by killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth. This research emphasizes traditional herbs as potential sources of antibiotics, showcasing a critical avenue for discovering new antimicrobial compounds that can contribute to overcoming antibiotic resistance in contemporary medical practice.
5) Leprosy:
'Leprosy' is a chronic infectious disease primarily affecting the skin and peripheral nerves, caused by Mycobacterium leprae. In the text, it underscores the historical therapeutic use of the plant Achyranthes aspera in treating leprosy, reflecting its significance in traditional medicine, particularly the Siddha practices, and its relevance in combating such diseases.
6) Siddha (Siddh膩):
Siddha is a traditional system of medicine rooted in southern India, primarily Tamil Nadu. The term encapsulates the holistic approach that integrates herbal treatments, internal practices, and lifestyle modifications. This study emphasizes Siddha's acknowledgment of plant-derived therapeutics, showcasing how ancient wisdom informs modern scientific exploration in understanding their medicinal potential.
7) Ulcer:
'Ulcer' refers to a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach or the intestines, often causing pain and discomfort. The study mentions the efficacy of certain plant extracts on ulcer healing, which reflects the importance of natural remedies in managing gastrointestinal disorders, promoting a better understanding of their healing properties.
8) Blood:
'Blood' is a vital fluid carrying nutrients and oxygen, and it plays a crucial role in the body's immune response. The reference to blood in this context relates to the studies on plant effects, including potential impacts on blood pressure and purifying qualities, emphasizing the pharmacological relevance of these plants in systemic health management.
9) Chemotherapy:
'Chemotherapy' refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, through chemical substances or drugs. Here, it is mentioned in relation to the use of plant extracts in antimicrobial treatment, drawing parallels between traditional herbal medicine and modern medicinal science, stressing the potential of plant-based compounds in therapeutic regimens, including antibiotics.
10) Discussion:
'Discussion' indicates the section where the authors interpret their findings, providing insights into the implications of their study. It serves as a medium for reflecting on results, comparing them with existing literature, and drawing conclusions about the significance of the antimicrobial properties observed, thus enhancing the scientific dialogue.
11) Substance:
'Substance' denotes the specific chemical compounds found in the medicinal plant extracts that exhibit biological activity. In this context, it describes the various active ingredients responsible for their antimicrobial potency, underpinning the study's aim of exploring the relationship between chemical composition and therapeutic effectiveness in traditional herbal remedies.
12) Ayurveda (膧yurveda, Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is an ancient Indian system of medicine that promotes holistic health through the balance of body, mind, and spirit using natural remedies. The mention of Ayurveda emphasizes the cultural and historical significance of herbal medicines, providing context for the study as it relates to traditional practices and contemporary scientific validation.
13) Moth:
'Moth' in this context likely refers to 'months', particularly the collection period mentioned in the study. It conveys the timing of the medicinal plant gathering, which is essential for ensuring the use of fresh, mature plant parts, thereby affecting the quality and efficacy of the active compounds studied for antimicrobial properties.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Antimicrobial studies of some selected medicinal plants鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Achyranthes aspera, Leucas aspera, Thespesia populnea, Ficus glomerata, Medicinal plant, Purgative action, Anti-inflammatory activities, Antimicrobial activity, Zone of inhibition, Antidiabetic activity, Antiviral activity, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Alcoholic extract, Hypoglycaemic activity, Salmonella Typhi, Dimethyl Formamide (DMF), Zizyphus jujuba, Spasmogenic effect.