In Vitro Bacteriostatic and Bactericidal Activities of Senna alata, Ricinus communis and Lannea barteri extracts Against Wound and Skin Disease Causing Bacteria

Abstract

Antibacterial activities of the extracts of three medicinal plants, Senna alata, Ricinus communis and Lannea barteri from two different extractants were studied. Bacteria strains such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli are known wound and skin disease causing bacteria. For 100g of each plant material, the percentage yields of the extracts were determined and ranged between 5.20% and 12.40%. Phytochemical screening of the crude extracts of Senna alata, Ricinus communis and Lannea barteri revealed the presence of some bioactive components, including tannins, anthraquinones, saponins, flavonoids and alkaloids. All plant extracts showed inhibition on test organisms and were in the range of 12.0 ± 2.83mm to 36.0 ± 2.12mm for all the extracts. The MIC values obtained for the entire test ranged from 3.13mg/ml to 12.50mg/ml and MBC values were found to be 200mg/ml minimum and 400mg/ml maximum. Findings support the traditional use of Senna alata, Ricinus communis and Lannea barteri for the treatment of skin and wound infections and form a strong basis for further exploration of these plants;