Antimicrobial Activity of (avocado) Leaf Extracts Against Staphylococcus Aureus, Escherichia Coli and Salmonella Specie

Student: Agnes Ajunwa (Project, 2025)
Department of Science Laboratory Technology
Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, Benue State

Abstract

This study investigates the antimicrobial activity of Persea americana (avocado) leaf extracts against three pathogenic bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella species. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of avocado leaves were prepared and tested for their antimicrobial effects using the agar well diffusion method. The results showed that the aqueous extract exhibited significant antimicrobial activity, particularly against Escherichia coli (4.00 mm) and Salmonella species (6.00 mm), while no inhibition was observed against Staphylococcus aureus. The ethanolic extract did not show any noticeable antimicrobial activity against the tested bacteria. Control groups (water and ethanol) did not demonstrate any antimicrobial effects. The findings suggest that Persea americana leaf extracts, particularly the aqueous extract, possess antimicrobial properties and may serve as a potential natural alternative in the fight against bacterial infections, especially those caused by Gram-negative bacteria. However, further research is needed to identify the active compounds responsible for these effects and to assess their safety and efficacy in clinical settings.

Keywords
antimicrobial activity avocado extracts against staphylococcus aureus escherichia salmonella specie
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