The Effect of Curcuma Longa on Respiratory Tract Isolates: A Potential Natural Therapeutic Agent

Abstract

Background: Extensive use of antibiotics has led to emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), hence, challenging the treatment of clinical bacterial isolates. Herbal agents like Curcuma longa (Turmeric) have gained prominence for their wide-ranging effects. This study aimed to identify antibacterial and cytotoxic potential of pure and processed Curcuma longa on respiratory tract bacterial isolates to develop an effective and sustainable treatment option. Methods: This study was conducted from March to October 2023 at Medical Technology Laboratory, Ziauddin University. The antibacterial activity of pure and processed Curcuma longa ethanolic extracts against Moraxella catarrhalis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Haemophilus influenzae was checked by agar well diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined through microdilution method. Phytochemical composition was qualitatively analyzed and cytotoxic potentials of Curcuma longa were tested through MTS assay. Mean values of turmeric extracts were compared by student’s t-test through SPSS version 17. p-value<0.05 is considered significant. Results: Comparable antibacterial activity was observed for pure and processed Curcuma longa extract against tested bacterial organisms. Among them, Moraxella catarrhalis showed maximum zones of inhibition (20mm) when treated with pure Curcuma longa extract. Furthermore, MIC was achieved at 25mg/ml and 50mg/ml against tested isolates with the bactericidal mode of action. Enhanced phytochemical composition and 98% cell viability against NIH 3T3 mouse fibroblast cell lines were observed for pure Curcuma longa. Conclusion: This study revealed effective antibacterial potential of Curcuma longa and prefers the use of pure Curcuma longa due to its better phytochemical composition and safety profile for cellular systems.

Keywords

• curcuma longa
• respiratory tract infections
• anti-bacterial agents
• cytotoxicity