Antibacterial evaluation of Seidenfia rheedii root extracts.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Evaluation of extracts of the root of Seidenfia rheedii (Sw.) Szlach. for antibacterial activity
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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T. Francis Xavier, S. Senthilkumar
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Evaluation of extracts of the root of Seidenfia rheedii (Sw.) Szlach. for antibacterial activity
Year: 2005
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study focuses on evaluating the antibacterial properties of root extracts from Seidenfia rheedii (Sw.) Szlach., an herbaceous orchid native to the Kolli hills of the Eastern Ghats in India. Traditionally recognized for its medicinal benefits as documented in ancient texts like the "Charaka Samhita," Seidenfia rheedii has garnered attention for its potential as an alternative antibiotic source amid rising antibiotic resistance and side effects associated with synthetic antibiotics. The research aims to explore the antibacterial activity of various solvent extracts鈥攁queous, ethanol, petroleum ether, and a 1:1 mixture of ethanol and petroleum ether鈥攐n assorted pathogenic bacterial strains.
Effectiveness of Ethanol Extracts
One significant finding from the investigation is that the ethanolic extracts demonstrated the most substantial antibacterial activity against a range of bacterial strains, including Escherichia coli and Proteus vulgaris. In contrast, the petroleum ether and ethanol (1:1) extracts showed moderate antibacterial activity, and the aqueous extracts failed to exhibit any antibacterial effects. This variation highlights the solvent's influence on extracting the plant鈥檚 active compounds, emphasizing that ethanol effectively facilitates the extraction of biologically active constituents responsible for antibacterial effects. The study suggests that the extracts may contain various secondary metabolites like alkaloids and tannins, which are commonly associated with antimicrobial properties found in medicinal plants.
Conclusion
The preliminary evaluation of the antibacterial activity of Seidenfia rheedii root extracts reveals promising potential for medicinal applications. The research indicates that ethanolic extracts could serve as a valuable resource for developing natural antibacterial agents, particularly in combating prevalent human pathogens. However, the study acknowledges the need for further phytochemical investigations to isolate and identify the specific compounds responsible for the observed antibacterial effects. Such exploration could pave the way for more comprehensive utilization of Seidenfia rheedii in traditional and modern medicine, addressing the critical issue of antibiotic resistance in healthcare settings.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the study on Seidenfia rheedii?
The study evaluates the antibacterial activity of root extracts of Seidenfia rheedii against 12 different human pathogenic bacteria, highlighting that ethanolic extracts showed significant antibacterial effects compared to other solvent extracts.
Which extract of Seidenfia rheedii was most effective against bacteria?
Ethanolic extracts exhibited the greatest antibacterial activity against tested bacterial strains, while petroleum ether and aqueous extracts showed moderate to no antibacterial effects, respectively.
How were the extracts prepared for testing?
Root samples were powdered and soaked in water, ethanol, and a petroleum ether-ethanol mixture for 72 hours. The extracts were then filtered and used for antibacterial testing.
What method was used to test antibacterial activity?
The disc diffusion assay was employed to measure antibacterial activity. Bacterial cultures were spread on agar plates, with filter paper discs containing extracts placed on the surface to determine zones of inhibition.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淎ntibacterial evaluation of Seidenfia rheedii root extracts.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) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotics are substances used to treat bacterial infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria. This concept is vital in the study as it addresses the need for alternatives to synthetic antibiotics that may cause side effects or lead to resistance, highlighting the potential of herbal remedies.
2) Activity:
Activity in this study pertains to the antibacterial action observed through the evaluation of plant extracts. It signifies the effectiveness of Seidenfia rheedii in combating bacterial infections. This is quantitatively represented through the measurement of zones of inhibition, reflecting the extract's potential as a natural therapeutic agent.
3) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. The study underscores the role of traditional and modern medicinal practices in utilizing plant extracts, like Seidenfia rheedii, to address health issues, emphasizing the significance of discovering new therapeutic agents from natural sources.
4) Science (Scientific):
Scientific indicates an approach grounded in structured research and analysis. This term emphasizes the exploration of Seidenfia rheedii through methodical evaluations and testing, enhancing the credibility of the findings regarding its antibacterial activities. It promotes evidence-based practices in the validation of traditional medicinal claims.
5) Glass:
Glass, in the context of this study, refers to the sterile glass rod used to mix plant extract solutions. It ensures that the preparation process is free from contamination, which is crucial for the validity of the in vitro tests conducted on the antibacterial properties of Seidenfia rheedii.
6) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds found in plants that exhibit various biological activities. The study relates to the presence of phytochemicals in Seidenfia rheedii that contribute to its antibacterial effects. Understanding these compounds aids in identifying effective natural remedies and the mechanisms behind their therapeutic potential.
7) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section where results are interpreted and analyzed. In the study, this part is crucial for elucidating the significance of the findings, comparing them to previous research, and suggesting future directions for further investigation, such as isolating active compounds responsible for antibacterial activity.
8) Substance:
Substance refers to the specific material being studied, in this case, the extracts from the roots of Seidenfia rheedii. Examining the antibacterial substances within these extracts is essential for understanding their efficacy and potential applications in treating infections caused by pathogenic bacteria.
9) Toxicity:
Toxicity pertains to the degree of harmfulness a substance can impose on living organisms. The study relates this term to concerns regarding synthetic antibiotics, which can disrupt natural microbial flora and result in adverse effects. The exploration of plant extracts aims to mitigate such risks while offering medicinal benefits.
10) Samhita (Sa峁僪it膩, Sa峁僪ita):
Samhita refers to ancient medical texts, particularly in Indian traditions, which compile extensive knowledge on herbal medicine. Mentioning 'Charaka Samhita' in the study emphasizes the historical significance of Seidenfia rheedii in traditional medicine, linking contemporary scientific evaluation with time-honored herbal practices.
11) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants and their characteristics. In the context of this study, the reference to botany encompasses the identification, classification, and usage of plants such as Seidenfia rheedii. This understanding aids in exploring their medicinal properties and ecological relevance.
12) Water:
Water is a crucial solvent in the preparation of plant extracts. Its role in this study relates to the extraction process, where it serves as a medium for extracting bioactive compounds. The varying effectiveness of aqueous extracts highlights the importance of solvent choice in enhancing antibacterial activity.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Antibacterial evaluation of Seidenfia rheedii root extracts.鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Medicinal plant, Antibacterial activity, Conventional medicine, Zone of inhibition, Pathogenic bacteria, Aqueous extract, Phytochemical studies, Ethanol extract, Bactericidal effect, Nutrient agar medium, Petroleum ether, Intestinal microflora, Root extract, Seidenfia rheedii.