International Journal of Emerging Research in Engineering, Science, and Management
Vol. 3, Issue 4, pp. 57-61, Oct-Dec 2024.
https://doi.org/10.58482/ijeresm.v3i4.8

Antimicrobial Activity of Selected Medicinal Plants from Around Ujjain City, India

Nikita Pathak

Alok Kumar Srivastav

Department of Biotechnology, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam University, Indore, India.

Department of Health Science, University of the People, Pasadena, California, United States.

Abstract: Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system, emphasizes the use of natural elements to treat diseases and promote a balanced, healthy life. Polyherbalism—the practice of combining multiple herbs—enhances therapeutic efficacy and reduces toxicity. In this study, three medicinal plants, Moringa oleifera, Withania somnifera, and Acorus calamus, were examined for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Phytochemical screening of these plants identified active compounds like alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and flavonoids. Solvent extractions using methanol, chloroform, petroleum ether, and water were conducted, and antimicrobial activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, B. cereus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa using the disc diffusion method. Additionally, antioxidant properties were measured with the DPPH radical scavenging assay. This research highlights the potential of these plants to combat microbial infections and oxidative stress-related disorders.

Keywords: Antimicrobial Activity, Antioxidant Activity, Phytochemical Screening, Polyherbal Formulation, Traditional Medicine.

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