A study of the antimicrobial activity of Psidium guajava L. and Lawsonia inermis leaf extracts against some foodborne pathogens

Abstract

The study aims to determine the antibacterial activity of Psidium guajava and Lawsonia inermis leaf extracts against some foodborne pathogens. The leaf samples were collected, rinsed, dried, ground, and then stored. The leaf powder was soaked in ethanol and boiled in distilled water. Then, it was filtered. The antibacterial activity of P. guajava and L. inermis leaf extracts against Salmonella enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli and multidrug resistant S. aureus (MRSA) was studied. Microbial enzymes were examined including Amylase, Protease and Lipase. The results showed that the most effective extract against all the tested microorganisms was Psidium guajava ethanol extract. Similar results were almost detected in L. inermis water extract. Although P. guajava water extract had wider inhibition zone, its effect was limited against E. coli, S. aureus and MRSA. In conclusion, the results obtained provide valuable knowledge for food preservation. There is need for further research to better extract high concentrations of P. guajava and L. inermis extracts.