Phytochemical screening and antibacterial activity of crude aqueous and ethanol extracts of Salvadora persica L. stem (Miswak) from Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Since long time ago, medicinal plant products have been a rich source of antibacterial drugs. Salvadora persica L. stem is used basically for cleanse, get rid of microbes and the stink smell of the mouth. Phytochemical investigations on the aqueous and ethanol extracts of Salvadora persica L. stem revealed presence of some bioactive principles, such as Saponins, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, Terpenoids and flavonoids. Antimicrobial investigation revealed presence of some degree of antimicrobial effect against some gram negative bacteria (Salmonella enterica ATCC 5174, Proteus vulgaris ATCC 49132, Klebsiella pneumonia ATCC 27736, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853) and some gram positive bacteria (Bacillus cereus ATCC 10876, Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 49461, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923). This antibacterial activity considered Competitor to penicillin G, but modest when compared to gentamicin. The antibiotic penicillin is collapsing and it is no longer a good option.