The Antimicrobial Activity of Herbal Soaps Against Selected Human Pathogens

Abstract

Abstract Antioxidant substances are used not only in food and beverages, but also in soap formulations which are known to be effective in skin cleansing, and are also used as ingredients in the detergent and cosmetics market. The aim of this study was to determine the bactericidal effects of plain and antibacterial soaps containing Punica granatum flower (PGF), Carrot seed (CS, Daucus carota), Lavender (LV, Lavandula officinalis L.) extracts which are known for their high antioxidant activity. Antioxidant properties were determined by using the cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) and Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) for all soap samples. The effectiveness of soaps which are prepared using PGF, CS and LV extracts on gram positive and gram negative bacteria was investigated. From the findings obtained, all plant extracted soaps had antibacterial activity and it was determined that soap containing carrot extract caused a significant decrease in bacterial levels compared to other soaps. As a result, it has been concluded that the use of antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds as soap formulation components is extremely important for increasing the effectiveness of soap against bacteria.