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VOL. 10, ISSUE 3 (2025)
Antimicrobial potential of Bursera penicillata (Sessé & Moc. ex DC.) Engl. essential oil in combating bacterial and fungal pathogens
Authors
Rapala Vishalakshi, Ramavath Narender, N Venkatachary, Sudheer Kumar Dokuparthi, Sujatha Edupuganti
Abstract
Essential oils have been recognized for their
antimicrobial properties, particularly as alternatives to combat antimicrobial
resistance (AMR). Bursera penicillata (Sessé & Moc. ex DC.)
Engl. has traditional medicinal uses, but its antimicrobial potential remains
underexplored. This study the antimicrobial activity of B. penicillata
essential oil against clinically relevant microorganisms and compares its
efficacy to standard antibiotics and antifungals. The essential oil was
extracted via hydrodistillation from bark resin. The agar well diffusion
method was used against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus,
Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Candida
albicans, and Aspergillus niger. Nutrient agar and sabouraud
dextrose agar were used for bacterial and fungal growth. Zones of inhibition
were measured at two concentrations (1:0.5 and 1:1 dilution in DMSO), with
amoxicillin and fluconazole as positive controls. The oil exhibited
dose-dependent antimicrobial activity. Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus, B.
cereus, S. epidermidis) were more susceptible than Gram-negative bacteria (E.
coli, Enterobacter). The highest inhibition was observed for S. aureus
(1.9 cm), while E. coli showed the lowest (1.13 cm). Moderate antifungal
activity was noted against C. albicans (1.3 cm) and A. niger
(1.33 cm), but lower than fluconazole. Bursera penicillata essential oil
exhibits significant antimicrobial activity, particularly against Gram-positive
bacteria. While less potent than standard drugs, it presents a natural
alternative requiring further research for clinical applications.
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Pages:11-15
How to cite this article:
Rapala Vishalakshi, Ramavath Narender, N Venkatachary, Sudheer Kumar Dokuparthi, Sujatha Edupuganti "Antimicrobial potential of <i>Bursera penicillata</i> (Sessé & Moc. ex DC.) Engl. essential oil in combating bacterial and fungal pathogens". International Journal of Botany Studies, Vol 10, Issue 3, 2025, Pages 11-15
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