Evaluating the antibacterial efficacy of Phyllanthus niruri Extract against uropathogens from urine-contaminated soil: A potential solution to antimicrobial resistance

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a major global health concern, driven by uropathogens such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus, with their prevalence in environmental samples like soil highlighting potential transmission risks. The escalating challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has diminished the effectiveness of conventional antibiotics, necessitating the exploration of alternative therapies. This study investigates the antibacterial potential of Phyllanthus niruri aqueous extract compared to tetracycline against these uropathogens isolated from urine-contaminated soil in Meyyanoor, Salem, Tamil Nadu. Soil samples were collected, processed using serial dilution on Blood Agar Base medium, and incubated at 37 °C for 24 hours to isolate bacterial colonies. Identification was confirmed through Gram staining and biochemical tests, revealing S. saprophyticus (Gram-positive cocci), E. coli, and P. aeruginosa (both Gram-negative rods). The antibacterial activity was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton Agar plates, with zones of inhibition measured after 24 hours at 37 °C. P. niruri extract showed the highest efficacy against P. aeruginosa (18 mm), followed by E. coli (12 mm) and S. saprophyticus (10 mm), while tetracycline was most effective against S. saprophyticus (18 mm), with moderate activity against E. coli (13 mm) and P. aeruginosa (17 mm). The extract’s preparation involved boiling fresh P. niruri plant material to preserve bioactive compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids, known for their antibacterial properties. The results suggest that P. niruri extract, particularly effective against multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa, could serve as a viable alternative or adjunct to conventional antibiotics, addressing the AMR crisis. The study underscores the role of environmental reservoirs in AMR dissemination and supports the potential of plant-based therapies, especially in regions where traditional medicine like Ayurveda is prevalent. Further research is recommended to optimize the extract’s formulation and explore synergistic effects with antibiotics, potentially through in vivo studies and metabolomic analyses to identify key bioactive compounds.