Antimicrobial studies on methanol extract of benincasa hispida cogn., fruit
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Antimicrobial studies on methanol extract of benincasa hispida cogn., fruit
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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D. Natarajan, R.J. Lavarasan, S. Chandra babu, M.A.C. Sahib Thambi Refai, L.H.Thameemul Ansari
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Antimicrobial studies on methanol extract of benincasa hispida cogn., fruit
Year: 2003
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Benincasa hispida cogn. (Cucurbitaceae), commonly known as wax gourd, is a tendril climber cultivated throughout India, appreciated for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Traditionally, its fruits have been recognized for their therapeutic uses, including benefits for conditions like insanity, epilepsy, and nervous diseases. Previous studies have identified several active constituents such as triterpenes and sterols within the methanolic extract of B. hispida fruits. However, limited research existed on its antimicrobial properties, prompting the need for a focused study on this aspect.
Antimicrobial Activity of Benincasa Hispida
The study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and antifungal properties of the methanol extract of B. hispida (MEBH). Using a cup-plate method to assess bacterial inhibition, the extract revealed no effectiveness against tested gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Conversely, significant antifungal activity was noted against Candida albicans at a concentration of 30 mg/ml, while no effect was observed against Aspergillus niger. This finding underscores the selective antimicrobial potential of MEBH, particularly its ability to combat fungal infections.
Conclusion
The research concludes that while the methanol extract of Benincasa hispida shows no antibacterial activity against various pathogenic bacteria, it possesses marked antifungal properties against Candida albicans. This suggests that B. hispida might be effectively utilized in treating candidiasis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent in the realm of fungal infections. Further studies could expand on its specific uses and explore other beneficial properties of this medicinal plant.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What were the main findings of the antimicrobial study on Benincasa hispida?
The study found no antibacterial activity of the methanol extract against six bacteria, but significant antifungal activity against Candida albicans was observed, with no inhibition against Aspergillus niger.
What types of microorganisms were tested in this study?
The study tested three gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis) and three gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia), along with two fungi (Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger).
How was the methanol extract of Benincasa hispida prepared?
The fruit was ground into a slurry and extracted with methanol through maceration. The solvent was then removed under reduced pressure, yielding a semi-solid mass that was stored away from sunlight.
What is the significance of the study's findings on medicinal uses?
The findings indicate that the methanol extract has potential use in treating candidiasis due to its antifungal activity against Candida albicans, while showing no antibacterial efficacy against the tested bacteria.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antimicrobial studies on methanol extract of benincasa hispida cogn., fruit�. 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:
Activity in this context refers to the biological effect observed upon testing the methanol extract of Benincasa hispida against various microorganisms. It indicates whether the extract exhibited any antimicrobial properties (antibacterial or antifungal), which is crucial in determining the potential therapeutic uses of the extract in treating infections caused by these microorganisms.
2) Benincasa hispida:
Benincasa hispida, commonly known as wax gourd, is an edible fruit belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. It is noted for its nutritional and medicinal properties, often regarded as tonic, diuretic, and helpful in treating several diseases. This study investigates its antimicrobial effects, reflecting its importance in herbal medicine.
3) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to substances that inhibit the growth of bacteria. In this study, the methanol extract of Benincasa hispida was tested for its antibacterial effects against several bacterial strains. The lack of significant antibacterial activity suggests that while the extract may have other medicinal properties, it may not be effective in treating bacterial infections.
4) Drug:
In medicinal contexts, a drug is a chemical used for therapeutic purposes. This study assesses the methanol extract of Benincasa hispida as a potential natural drug, particularly for antifungal activity against Candida albicans. Understanding its properties can lead to development as an alternative therapy in treating infections.
5) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. The relevance of epilepsy in this study stems from traditional uses of Benincasa hispida, which is noted for its tonic and alternative properties potentially beneficial for various nervous diseases, suggesting a broader interest in its pharmacological applications beyond antifungal activity.
6) Science (Scientific):
Science in this study pertains to the systematic investigation of the antimicrobial properties of Benincasa hispida. It embodies the methodology used to collect, analyze, and interpret data regarding the effectiveness of the extract against bacteria and fungi, reinforcing the role of scientific inquiry in traditional medicine and drug development.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Antimicrobial studies on methanol extract of benincasa hispida cogn., fruit�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Antimicrobial activity, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, Cup Plate Method, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Standard drug, Aspergillus niger, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Klebsiella pneumonia, Bacillus subtilis.