IN-VITRO ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF ARQE AJEEB ON ENTEROCOCCUS HIRAE, ESCHERICHIA COLI, PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA, AND STREPTOCOCCUS MUTANS

The increased use of antibiotics and the rise of antibiotic resistance among microorganisms pose significant public health concerns. While several herbal drugs have been validated for their antimicrobial activity, identification of additional antimicrobial agents is necessary. The Unani system of medicine comprises numerous herbs and formulations used for treating various infections. Arq e Ajeeb (AA) is one such formulation, historically utilized during epidemics to address conditions such as cholera (Haiza), tuberculosis (Sil), plague(Taoon), and seasonal fevers. Additionally, AA has been used as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic. This study aimed to evaluate the in-vitro antimicrobial activity of AA on four different bacteria, considering antibacterial properties demonstrated by its ingredients. The antibacterial activity of the test sample was evaluated using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. Bacterial strains (P. aeruginosa, E. hirae, E. coli, S. mutans) were inoculated in 100μl sterile MHB broth. A test sample underwent double dilutions ranging from 100 to 0.048828mg. Ciprofloxacin (0.1%) served as the standard antibiotic. The plates were incubated at 32.5 ± 2.5°C for 24 to 48 h. Resazurin dye was added, and a color change was observed. MIC value, representing the lowest concentration without color change, was determined. AA showed antibacterial activity at concentration 100 to 0.048828 mg. MIC for E. hirae, E. coli, S. mutans was 0.048828mg, while that for P. aeruginosa was 1.562 mg. AA demonstrated significant antibacterial activity and may serve as a better alternative to conventional drugs. Furthermore, its antifungal and antiviral properties anticipate further investigation into in-vitro antimicrobial activity against other microorganisms.