International Journal of Science, Engineering and TechnologyAuthors: Dr. Samson L. Mangin
Abstract: Guava (Psidium guajava) is a fruit-bearing tree known for its numerous health benefits. Its leaves are widely recognized for their medicinal properties and have long been used in traditional medicine. In emergency situations, guava leaf extracts have been commonly utilized as antibacterial agents and have been applied in the treatment of common wound infections. This study aimed to determine which concentration of guava leaf extract is most effective as an antimicrobial agent against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, which are common causes of wound infections. The experiment began with the extraction of dried guava leaves at concentrations of 50%, 75%, and 95%. Mueller–Hinton agar was used to culture the two pathogenic bacteria along with the extracted guava leaf solutions. Each bacterium was exposed to the three different concentrations of guava leaf extract, while penicillin was used as the control. The cultures were then incubated at 37°C for 24 hours to observe the zones of inhibition. After 24 hours, the results showed that guava leaf extract produced measurable zones of inhibition, indicating antimicrobial activity. The 50% guava leaf extract showed the lowest zone of inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus, with an average of 15.67 mm. In contrast, the 95% guava leaf extract exhibited the highest zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli, with an average of 22.33 mm. Based on these findings, the study conclude that guava leaf extract is effective as an antimicrobial agent against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18996214
