In-vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Syzygium cumini L. and Moringa oleifera Against Waterborne Bacteria for Safe Water Use

Abstract

Background: Waterborne pathogens pose a substantial global threat to public health, particularly in regions with limited access to safe
drinking water. Plant-based antimicrobials offer a promising alternative to conventional chemical disinfectants, which may pose safety
concerns.
Objective: This scientific study investigates the in-vitro antibacterial efficacy of hydroalcoholic extracts from Syzygium cumini L. and
Moringa oleifera plant leaves against key waterborne pathogens: Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella spp., and
Vibrio cholerae.
Methods: Antibacterial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method to measure zones of inhibition, as well as minimum
inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays.
Results: Both plant extracts of S. cumini and M. oleifera demonstrated notable antibacterial activity. S. cumini exhibited superior
inhibition zones (24.1 ± 0.6 mm against V. cholerae) and lower MIC values (0.35 mg/mL), indicating stronger potency compared to M.
oleifera. The positive control (Ampicillin) presented the uppermost inhibition across all strains, but the plant extracts offered promising
natural alternatives.
Conclusion: Hydroalcoholic extracts of S. cumini and M. oleifera possess significant antibacterial potential against waterborne pathogens.
Their application could enhance natural water safety, especially in resource-limited conditions. Further studies are warranted to explore
formulation and field-level efficacy.