Antimicrobial Activity of Oenanthe javanica Seed Extract: An In Vitro Study

Phanthipha  Phuttamek; Kitthisak  Khlaeo Chansukh; Anongnooch  thumpad; Charinthorn  Fakkham; Salinthip  Kunsilarak

Phanthipha Phuttamek Department of Applied Thai Traditional Medicine, College of Allied Health Sciences, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Samut Songkhram, Thailand;
Kitthisak Khlaeo Chansukh Department of Applied Thai Traditional Medicine, College of Allied Health Sciences, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Samut Songkhram, Thailand;
Anongnooch thumpad Department of Applied Thai Traditional Medicine, College of Allied Health Sciences, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Samut Songkhram, Thailand;
Charinthorn Fakkham Department of Applied Thai Traditional Medicine, College of Allied Health Sciences, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Samut Songkhram, Thailand;
Salinthip Kunsilarak Department of Applied Thai Traditional Medicine, College of Allied Health Sciences, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Samut Songkhram, Thailand;

Keywords: Oenanthe javanica, Water dropwort, Agar Disk Diffusion

Abstract

Water dropwort fruit (Oenanthe javanica (Blume) DC.), locally known as "Phak Chi Lom," is a renowned medicinal herb with a long history of traditional use, primarily for its gastrointestinal benefits. Its properties include relieving dizziness, soothing hiccups, suppressing nausea and vomiting, supporting digestion, and alleviating uncomfortable flatulence and bloating . Given the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the high cost associated with treating recurring bacterial infections, investigating natural sources for new antimicrobial agents is critical. This study aimed to evalu ate the antimicrobial inhibitory efficacy of the O. javanica extract against four selected microbial strains using the Agar Disc Diffusion Assay. The extract consistently showed the most potent inhibitory effect against the Gram -positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis, yielding inhibition zones of 11.00±2.646 mm at 400 mg/ml and 12.00±0.577 mm at 200 mg /ml. The extract was effective against three of the four tested strains (S. aureus, B. subtilis, and P. aeruginosa) at high concentrations . However, the extract at all three tested concentrations failed to inhibit Escherichia coli, and at 100 mg /ml, its activity was strongly favored towards Gram-positive bacteria. The findings confirm the traditional usage and provide preliminary scientific justification for developing the extract into a natural antimicrobial agent to help address public health concerns.