Phytochemical Properties and Antibacterial Activities of the Ethanolic Extract of Papaya (Carica papaya) Leaves

Abstract

The antibacterial activities of plant extracts against bacteria, specifically the extract of papaya leaves, have been studied and proven for years to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activity. It can also inhibit the growth of bacteria. This research primarily aims to determine the phytochemical properties and antibacterial activities of the ethanolic extract of Papaya (Carica papaya) leaves against Staphylococcus aureus. The study utilized the experimental method design. The leaves of Papaya (Carica papaya) were shade-dried, powdered, and extracted using solvent ethanol. The extracts were then tested using the pre-poured Nutrient Agar (NA) to determine if the sample showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The sample shows that the ethanolic extract of Papaya (Carica papaya) leaves has no antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and received an Antimicrobial Index (AI) of 0.2, which means that the clearing zone of inhibition is not enough to prevent the growth of bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. After due investigations, sufficient evidence through analysis, and careful interpretation, the study shows that the ethanolic extract of Papaya (Carica papaya) leaves can inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli rather than Staphylococcus aureus. Based on the findings, the researchers recommend that future researchers may use another drying method and different percentages of ethanol to determine if the extract's efficacy would remain the same in light of the findings.