Journal of Medicinal Plants and Studies

 

Volume 3, Issue 2

 

Antimicrobial potential of the leaves of common mullein (Verbascum thapsus L., Scrophulariaceae) on microorganisms isolated from urinary tract infections

Author(s): Gorkem Dulger, Tulay Tutenocakli, Basaran Dulger

Abstract:
Objective: Nowadays, Urinary tract infections (UTIs) have become very common. Scientists have come up with new treatment for UTIs that avoids the use of antibiotics. Therefore, studies for new alternative remedies are necessary. The aim of this study was to investigate the antibacterial potential of the leaves of Verbascum thapsus L. (Scrophulariaceae) (known as Common Mullein) against the pathogens causing complicated urine tract infections.
Methods: Air-dried leaves of the plant were extracted using 95% ethanol. The extract was screened against urinary tract pathogens (Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis and Candida albicans) by disc diffusion method and microdilution method. Some antibacterial and antifungal antibiotics were used as a positive reference standard to determine the sensitivity of the strains.
Results: The extracts showed strong antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans with inhibition zones of 19.2, 16.8 and 16.2 mm, with MIC’s and MBC’s or MFC’s of 32(64), 64(128) and 64(128) µg/mL, respectively. Also, the extracts exhibited moderate activity against the other test microorganisms.
Conclusion: Our findings support the use of Verbascum thapsus L. in traditional medicine for the treatment against the urine tract pathogens. Hence, it is suggested to isolate and identify the active compounds of the plant for novel antimicrobial agents in future.

 

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