Isolation and Identification of Bacteria Diversity in Local Herbal Concocti

Herbal concoctions are an essential component of traditional medicine in Ikere Ekiti, Nigeria, and arewidely used for managing various health conditions. However, these remedies often face challengesrelated to microbial contamination, posing significant public health risks. The problem of microbialcontamination in herbal concoctions has not been fully addressed, and there is limited data on themicrobial diversity in these traditional formulations. This study addresses the need to understand themicrobial load and identify potential pathogens in these concoctions to inform safety practices andimprove public health outcomes.This study examined three local herbal concoctions; Typhoid-malaria (T-M) concoction (AgboIba),Pile concoction (Agbo Jedi), and Back Pain concoction (Opaeyin). Samples were collected from localvendors, traditional medicine practitioners, and markets in Ikere Ekiti. Classical microbiologicalmethods, including serial dilution and plate count techniques, were used to quantify microbial load.Colony morphology was assessed by observing size, shape, surface texture, elevation, and color.Isolates were characterized and identified through Gram staining, catalase testing, oxidase testing, andcoagulase testing. These methods allowed for a comprehensive analysis of the microbial speciespresent in each concoction.Results indicated a high microbial load across all samples, with diverse microbial communitiescomprising both bacterial and fungal species. Typhoid-malaria concoction contained Staphylococcusspp., including pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus. Pile concoction (Agbo Jedi) was contaminated withEscherichia coli and Bacillus spp., suggesting possible faecal contamination. Back Pain concoction(Opaeyin) harboured Streptococcus spp. and a mix of other microbial isolates. The presence of thesemicroorganisms underscores the potential health hazards associated with consuming improperlyprepared and stored herbal products.The findings highlight the need for stringent quality control measures and regulatory oversight toensure the safety of traditional herbal remedies. Recommendations include enforcing hygienestandards during preparation, regular microbial testing of products and public health education on safeherbal medicine practices. Improving these aspects can enhance the safety of traditional medicine,benefiting consumers while preserving cultural heritage