Antimicrobial Activity of N-Hexane Extract of Nigella Sativa against Some Pathogenic Bacteria

The therapeutic properties and the constant availability of medicinal plants makes them an indispensable asset in the healthcare sector of developing countries especially in rural areas where modern healthcare systems are not readily available. This study evaluated the phytochemical compositions and antibacterial efficacy of Nigella sativa extract. The qualitative analysis of phytochemical properties was carried out using standard methods. The antimicrobial study was performed against four pathogenic bacteria (E. coli, S. aureus, Salmonella typhi, and Streptococcus pyogenes) using the agar well diffusion technics, the diameter of the zones of inhibition was read in mm, and MIC values were obtained. Results revealed the presence of saponins, anthraquinones, tannins coumarins, phenols and cardiac glycosides. The extract produced dose dependent increase inhibition S. aureus (8.35±0.35 - 18.35±0.53 mm), E. coli (5.43±0.15 - 11.33±0.85 mm) and Streptococcus pyogenes (5.43±0.02 - 15.35±0.56 mm) but was completely in active against Salmonella typhi at all concentrations (80-200 mg/mL) tested. The extract had MIC of 32, 1.28 and 1.28 mg/mL against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes respectively. In conclusion, N-hexane extract of N. sativa showed inhibitory effect on S. aureus, S. pyogenes and E. coli and thus may be useful in treating infections of which these organisms are the etiological agent.