Phytochemical Analysis and Antimicrobial Activity of Pongamia Pinnata: A Comprehensive Study

Abstract

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health challenge, exacerbated by the misuse of antimicrobial agents. With the rising prevalence of AMR in various plant and animal pathogens, there is an urgent need to explore alternative therapeutic options. Plant extracts, historically utilized for disease treatment, offer a promising avenue. Pongamia pinnata, also known as Indian Karanja, is notable for its rich phytochemical content and has been the subject of recent scientific interest. Objective: The primary aim of this study is to investigate the antimicrobial efficacy of P. pinnata extracts, prepared using the Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction (UAE) method, against a range of bacterial and fungal species known to exhibit AMR. Methods: In this study, an experimental laboratory design was utilized to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of Pongamia pinnata. Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of P. pinnata were prepared and subjected to biochemical analysis to identify the spectrum of phytochemicals present. The antimicrobial activity of these extracts was then assessed using the well-diffusion method against selected bacterial and fungal pathogens. Results: Both aqueous and alcoholic extracts of P. pinnata demonstrated significant antimicrobial effects against the tested microbial species. The study highlights the potent antimicrobial properties of P. pinnata, attributed to its diverse phytochemical composition. Conclusion: The findings of this study underscore P. pinnata as a valuable source of natural antimicrobial agents. Its efficacy against AMR pathogens suggests its potential application in the development of new treatments for infectious diseases. P. pinnata holds promise for medicinal use, particularly in contexts where conventional antibiotics are ineffective.