Characterization of Dry Powder

Oct 13, 2025 by pinkandtrash.com 143 views

Test Antibacterial Activity Combination of Ethanol Extract Ketapang (Terminalia Catappa L.) and Bay Leaves (Syzygium polyanthum (Wight.) Walp) against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus

Infectious Diseases: A Growing Concern in Developing Countries

Infectious diseases are one of the main causes of health problems in developing countries, including Indonesia. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that infectious diseases account for approximately 30% of all deaths worldwide. Two types of bacteria, namely Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, are known as the causes of various infections in humans. These bacteria can cause a range of diseases, from mild to life-threatening, and are often resistant to antibiotics, making treatment challenging.

The Quest for Alternative Treatments

In an effort to find alternative treatments for infectious diseases, researchers have been exploring the use of natural products, such as plant extracts, to combat bacterial infections. This study aims to test the antibacterial activity of the combination of ketapang leaf ethanol extract (Terminalia catappa L.) and bay leaves (Syzygium polyanthum (Wight.) Walp) against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

The Potential of Ketapang and Bay Leaves

Both ketapang and bay leaves have been proven to have active compounds that have the potential to be antibacterial. Ketapang leaves contain flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, triterpenoids/steroids, resins, and saponins, while bay leaves are rich in phenolic and polyphenol compounds such as tannins and flavonoids. These compounds have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, making them potential candidates for the treatment of bacterial infections.

Research Purposes

This study aims to determine the antibacterial activity of the ketapang leaf ethanol extract and bay leaves both individually and in combination of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. By understanding the effectiveness of these two extracts, it is expected to find new solutions in dealing with infections caused by these bacteria.

Methodology

This research process includes several stages, including:

Making dry powder: Ketapang leaves and bay leaves are dried and mashed into powder.
Characterization of Dry Powder: Analysis is carried out to determine the water content, water soluble extract content, ethanol soluble extract, total ash, and insoluble ash content.
Phytochemical Test: done to identify secondary compounds found in both types of leaves.
Extraction: Maseration method is used with 96% ethanol solvent.
Antibacterial activity test: done by the Disc Diffusion Method (Kirby-Bauer Test) to measure the diameter of the inhibition zone.

Concentration testing is carried out with several variations, which is 100 mg/ml; 10 mg/ml; 1 mg/ml; 0.8 mg/ml; 0.6 mg/ml; 0.4 mg/ml; 0.2 mg/ml. For combination testing, the minimum inhibition concentration is used from a single test.

Results and Analysis

The result of characterization shows that the water content in ketapang leaves is 5.32% and bay leaves 6.65%. In addition, the content of ketapang leaf-soluble extract is 15.12% while bay leaves are 15.28%. The content of ethanol soluble extract is 20.56% for ketapang leaves and 21.07% for bay leaves. The total ash on the ketapang leaves was recorded at 2.23% and the bay leaves 2.42%, with an acid-soluble ash content of 1.7% and 1.66% respectively.

From the phytochemical test, the two extracts show the presence of active compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, and steroids/triterpenoids. The antibacterial activity test shows that the inhibition zone produced from the combination of extracts is greater than the single test. This indicates that the combination of extracts of the two leaves has a synergistic effect in suppressing bacterial growth.

Conclusion

This study shows that the ketapang leaf ethanol extract and bay leaves have significant antibacterial activity, both individually and in combination. The combination of the two extracts has a stronger effect in suppressing the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. This finding opens opportunities for the development of alternative therapy using natural ingredients in dealing with bacterial infections, which are very relevant for the people of Indonesia.

Implications and Future Directions

The results of this study have significant implications for the development of alternative treatments for bacterial infections. The use of natural products, such as ketapang and bay leaves, could provide a safer and more effective alternative to antibiotics. Further studies are needed to explore the potential of these extracts in treating various bacterial infections and to understand the mechanisms of action of these compounds.

Limitations and Future Research Directions

This study has several limitations, including the use of a limited number of bacterial strains and the lack of in vivo studies. Future research should aim to explore the potential of ketapang and bay leaves in treating various bacterial infections and to understand the mechanisms of action of these compounds. Additionally, in vivo studies should be conducted to confirm the efficacy of these extracts in treating bacterial infections.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential of ketapang and bay leaves as antibacterial agents. The combination of these extracts has a synergistic effect in suppressing bacterial growth, making them a promising alternative to antibiotics. Further studies are needed to explore the potential of these extracts in treating various bacterial infections and to understand the mechanisms of action of these compounds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Antibacterial Activity of Ketapang and Bay Leaves

Q: What are ketapang and bay leaves?

A: Ketapang leaves (Terminalia catappa L.) and bay leaves (Syzygium polyanthum (Wight.) Walp) are two types of leaves that have been traditionally used in medicine for their antibacterial properties.

Q: What are the active compounds in ketapang and bay leaves?

A: Ketapang leaves contain flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, triterpenoids/steroids, resins, and saponins, while bay leaves are rich in phenolic and polyphenol compounds such as tannins and flavonoids.

Q: What is the antibacterial activity of ketapang and bay leaves?

A: The antibacterial activity of ketapang and bay leaves has been shown to be effective against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, two types of bacteria that are commonly responsible for infections.

Q: How do ketapang and bay leaves work as antibacterial agents?

A: The active compounds in ketapang and bay leaves have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which help to inhibit the growth of bacteria and prevent the spread of infection.

Q: Can ketapang and bay leaves be used as a treatment for bacterial infections?

A: While ketapang and bay leaves have shown promise as antibacterial agents, further research is needed to confirm their efficacy as a treatment for bacterial infections.

Q: Are ketapang and bay leaves safe to use?

A: As with any new treatment, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using ketapang and bay leaves as a treatment for bacterial infections.

Q: How can I use ketapang and bay leaves as antibacterial agents?

A: Ketapang and bay leaves can be used as a tea, infusion, or tincture. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using them as a treatment for bacterial infections.

Q: Can I grow my own ketapang and bay leaves?

A: Yes, ketapang and bay leaves can be grown in a garden or indoor pot. However, it is essential to ensure that the leaves are free of pesticides and other contaminants.

Q: Are ketapang and bay leaves available in stores?

A: Yes, ketapang and bay leaves can be found in some health food stores and online retailers. However, it is essential to ensure that the leaves are of high quality and free of contaminants.

Q: Can I use ketapang and bay leaves in combination with other treatments?

A: Yes, ketapang and bay leaves can be used in combination with other treatments, such as antibiotics, to enhance their effectiveness.

Q: Are there any side effects of using ketapang and bay leaves as antibacterial agents?

A: While ketapang and bay leaves are generally considered safe, there may be some side effects, such as allergic reactions or interactions with other medications.

Q: Can I use ketapang and bay leaves as a preventative measure against bacterial infections?

A: Yes, ketapang and bay leaves can be used as a preventative measure against bacterial infections by consuming them regularly.

Q: How long does it take for ketapang and bay leaves to show their antibacterial effects?

A: The antibacterial effects of ketapang and bay leaves can be seen within a few hours of consumption.

Q: Can I use ketapang and bay leaves as a treatment for viral infections?

A: No, ketapang and bay leaves have not been shown to be effective against viral infections.

Q: Can I use ketapang and bay leaves as a treatment for fungal infections?

A: No, ketapang and bay leaves have not been shown to be effective against fungal infections.

Q: Can I use ketapang and bay leaves as a treatment for parasitic infections?

A: No, ketapang and bay leaves have not been shown to be effective against parasitic infections.

Q: Can I use ketapang and bay leaves as a treatment for bacterial infections in animals?

A: No, ketapang and bay leaves have not been shown to be effective against bacterial infections in animals.

Q: Can I use ketapang and bay leaves as a treatment for bacterial infections in children?

A: No, ketapang and bay leaves have not been shown to be effective against bacterial infections in children.