Abstract
An organic extract of Annatto (Bixa orellana) leaves obtained in 95% ethanol was examined for in vitro antifungal and antibacterial activity using the agar diffusion and tube dilution methods. The extract (5 mg/ml) produced antimicrobial action in agar diffusion assays against standard strains of Gram-positive bacteria including Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus faecalis while exerting only slight action against Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, Candida utilis, and Aspergillus niger. The zones of inhibition obtained against the susceptible bacteria were 15-17 mm while those obtained in assays with Chloramphenicol and phenol positive controls were 12-18 mm and 10-28 mm, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the extract was 4-16 mg/ml while its bactericidal action (MBC) was exerted at higher doses (16-64 mg/ml). The extract therefore, appears to possess a narrow spectrum of antimicrobial activity, being effective against only the Gram-positive bacteria used in our study.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
