Antimicrobial activity of the seeds of Hyoscyamus niger L. (Henbane) on microorganisms isolated from urinary tract infections

Abstract

Objective: The methanol extracts obtained from the seeds of Hyoscyamus niger L. (Solanaceae) were investigated for their antimicrobial activities against the pathogens causing complicated urine tract infections. Methods: The seeds of plant were extracted with aqueous 60% methanol. The extract was screened against urinary tract pathogens (Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis and Candida albicans) by disc diffusion method and microdilution method. Some antibacterial and antifungal antibiotics were used as a positive reference standard to determine the sensitivity of the strains. Results: The extracts showed strong antimicrobial activity against Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida albicans with inhibition zones of 26.0, 19.0 and 16.0 mm, with MIC’s and MBC’s or MFC’s of 4.0(8.0), 32(64) and 64(128) µg/mL, respectively. Also, the extracts exhibited moderate activity against the other test microorganisms. Conclusion: Our findings support the use of Hyoscyamus niger L. in traditional medicine for the treatment against the urine tract pathogens.