Heliyon (Sep 2023)
Evaluation of extracts from Sida acuta, Phyllanthus amarus, Parkia biglobosa and their herbal ointment for therapeutic and biological activities
Abstract
Herbal extracts are a well-known source of therapeutically important bioactive chemicals since they are widely available, relatively inexpensive, and have fewer adverse effects. The three plants' leaves have been used to treat a variety of illnesses in Ghana, including skin conditions and wound infections. Their effectiveness as an ointment in treating the aforementioned illnesses has not yet been shown, though.The extracts were made into an ointment with polyethylene glycol (PEG), and both the ointment and the raw extracts were examined for in vitro antibacterial activity. The three (3) chosen bacterial isolates were subjected to potential activities of the plant extracts from different extractants.The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for the plant extracts were both low. The herbal ointment made with Sida acuta extract from both extractants showed significantly different activity (P < 0.05), against the test pathogens when compared to the reference medication (Madecassol®). However, the activities of formulated herbal ointment from both P. amarus and P. biglobosa extracts were comparable at higher concentrations to the standard drug used. Notably, both plant extracts and extract-PEG manufactured ointments exhibit significant in vitro efficacy against the disease-causing bacterial species.The current study is the first in-depth account of Parkia species with regard to an examination of herbal ointments made from leaves extract obtained utilizing solvents such as water and ethanol. Our research findings have important implications for the pharmaceutical industry in terms of providing a suitable, workable, and alternative supply of bioactive compounds and anti-infective agents.
