Comparing the antibacterial activity of phytochemicals obtained from Bidens Pilosa and Aloe vera on resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract

In Uganda, bidens pilosa and aloe vera are edible herbs commonly used as a means of first aid care in cases of open wounds to combat secondary infection. The growing problem of antibiotic resistance by Staphylococcus aureus which is a common cause of skin and soft tissue infection demands searching for novel remedies from herbal sources. This study was aimed at comparing the antibacterial activity of the phytochemicals obtained from Bidens pilosa and those from Aloe vera on resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Ethanolic extraction of the phytochemicals and phytochemical screening were carried out to characterize the phytochemicals in both herbs. Drug resistant Staphylococcus aureus was isolated and inoculated on 30plates. Standardized extracts of both plants were added in wells in concentrations of 20, 50 and 80%. The plates were incubated for 24hrs and the zones of inhibition determined. Bidens pilosa contained more phytochemicals than Aloe vera. Bidens pilosa plant extract exhibited the largest growth inhibition zone at 50% concentration. There was no inhibition exhibited by Aloe vera. Basing on these findings phytochemicals obtained from Bidens pilosa have a higher antibacterial activity against resistant Staphylococcus aureus than the ones from Aloe vera. In the use of herbs to combat secondary infection by Staphylococcus aureus, Bidens pilosa should be used in preference to Aloe vera. However, further studies should be carried out to identify the exact phytochemical responsible for the antibacterial activity of Bidens pilosa