The Antimicrobial Activity of Terminalia catappa Leaves Extract and the Utilization of Aloe Vera Gel as an Organic Hand Sanitizer

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Skin being the most exposed part of the body requires protection from skin pathogens. Nosocomial infections have emerged as a critical issue resulting in hospitalization. Many of the chemical antiseptics are now available in the market as alcohol-based sanitizers. inthis connection, this investigatory project aims to create a product that is naturally-made but will give the same quality and effect as the commercial products. The main objective of this study is to determine the potential of natural plant extracts as an antibacterial agent and make an organic hand sanitizer out of its antimicrobial activity.

METHODS

Herewith is the procedure in making organic sanitizer using Terminalia catappa. First, is the methanolic extraction of Terminalia catappa leaves? Next, filter the resin. Then, sterilized the extracts and keep fermented in three weeks. After three weeks, in a clean container mixed the following: 300ml Terminalia catappa extracts, 200ml aloe vera gel, 1 tablespoon of witch hazel, half teaspoon of tea tree oil, a quarter teaspoon of vitamin e oil, 10 drops of essential oil such as peppermint, and 10 drops of natural scent. Lastly, stir well.

RESULTS

The laboratory testing used Disk Diffusion Assay with media material Mueller Hinton Agar for Escherichia coli with positive and negative control, the Nalidixic acid (30Âμg) and distilled water. The leaves extract gathered 14 ± 1.15 in the zone of inhibition (diameter in mm) against E. coli, which categorized as an active agent in inhibiting E.coli. Leaves extract with aloe-vera gel gathered 10 ± 2.31 categorized as a partially active agent. The test organism is susceptible to both substances tested.

DISCUSSIONS

Therefore, the researchers concluded that the methanolic extracts of Terminalia catappa leaves can be used as an alternative in alcohol-based hand sanitizers. in the laboratory result conducted, found out that the methanolic extracts of the leaves show different degrees of activity against some pathogens like E. coli. The methanolic extract is significantly efficient in inhibiting the investigated strain. The result of the antimicrobial activity of Terminalia catappa leaves extract in methanolic extraction proves that it can kill microbial strains.