Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
bioassays, ethnobotanical plants, E. coli, Staphlococcus aureus, Candida albicans, Hela caner cells
College
Life Sciences
Department
Biology
Abstract
During a three month period, ethnobotanical interviews were conducted to identify and collect plants traditionally used to treat skin and mouth infections. Plant parts (i.e. inner bark, young or mature leaves, fruit, etc.) specific to the native informants’ knowledge were collected and preserved in 100% ethanol to maintain the chemical integrity in the field. Methanol and hexane extracts from these plants were tested against microbes in established laboratory bioassays. The total number of plants showing significant activity in these tests was lower than expected. Each plant’s actual potential to inhibit microorganisms may not accurately be represented by this research due to two uncontrollable factors. First, our samples were collected fresh in the field and then preserved in 100% ethanol. This preservation, which is necessary to comply with quarantine and immigration standards and also to prevent sample contamination, may alter the plant compounds.
Recommended Citation
Huish, Ryan David and Cates, Dr. Rex G.
(2013)
"Bioassays on Ethnobotanical Plants With Potential Activity Against E. coli, Staphlococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Hela Cancer Cells,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013:
Iss.
1, Article 998.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/998