The persistence of bacterial infections and antibiotic resistance in secondary root canal infections necessitate effective antimicrobial approaches utilizing natural compounds. This study aimed to evaluate the extraction efficiency, phytochemical composition, and antibacterial activity of the ethanol extract of Aceh patchouli leaves (Pogostemon cablin Benth.) against Enterococcus faecalis. The maceration method was employed for extraction and phytochemical analysis was conducted using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Antibacterial activity was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer method, and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using UV-vis spectrophotometry. The results indicated a total extract yield of 17.25 % and significant antibacterial activity against E. faecalis. The active compounds in the extract were primarily sesquiterpenes and fatty acids, with patchouli alcohol as the most prominent. The MIC value was 12.5 %, suggesting the potential of Aceh patchouli extract as an alternative or adjunctive treatment for root canal infections. This study has the potential to make Aceh's indigenous Pogostemon cablin Benth. plant as an alternative or adjunctive treatment for root canal infections leading to safe and effective treatments that minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance. HIGHLIGHTS The ethanol extract of Aceh patchouli leaves (Pogostemon cablin Benth.) was obtained using the maceration method, yielding a total extract value of 17.25 %. The active compounds of the extract were primarily sesquiterpenes and fatty acids, with patchouli alcohol being the most prominent. The ethanol extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis, a common bacterium responsible for secondary root canal infections. The MIC of the extract was 12.5 %, indicating its potential effectiveness as an antimicrobial agent. This study suggests that the Aceh patchouli leaves could serve as an alternative or adjunctive treatment for root canal infections, addressing the challenges of bacterial persistence and antibiotic resistance. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT