Phytochemical Screening and Antibacterial Activity of Yemeni Moringa oleifera Leaves Extract

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Moringa oleifera is a valuable medicinal plant widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. Its leaves are abundant in vitamins, minerals, and essential phytochemicals with documented pharmacological activities. Previous studies have reported diverse therapeutic properties, including antibacterial, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cardiovascular, anti-ulcer, anti-allergic, and wound-healing properties. This study specifically focuses on evaluating the phytochemical composition and antibacterial potential of the methanolic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves cultivated in the Fuwah area of Al-Mukalla, Yemen, addressing a regional knowledge gap.

METHODS

Leaves were collected from Al-Mukalla, Yemen, authenticated, dried, and extracted by methanol using cold maceration. Phytochemical screening was conducted following standard protocols. In vitro antibacterial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Klebsiella spp., Proteus spp., Escherichia coli) bacterial strains.

RESULTS

Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of saponins, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenols. The methanolic extract exhibited clear concentration-dependent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with inhibition zones of 13 mm, 17 mm, and 22 mm at 125, 250, and 500 mg/mL, respectively. No inhibitory effect was observed against any of the tested Gram-negative bacteria.

CONCLUSION

The methanolic extract of Yemeni Moringa oleifera leaves contains diverse bioactive compounds and demonstrates potent antibacterial activity against Gram-positive S. aureus with no clear effect on the tested Gram-negative strains.