Analysis of Scabiosa olivieri and its antimicrobial properties

The resistance of microorganisms to antibiotics is increasing, and researchers are considering replacing effective antimicrobial agents with fewer side effects. One strategy is to focus on phytochemical activities with antimicrobial properties.  Researchers have now studied a variety of plants that could be potential sources of antimicrobial agents. Scabiosa extract has high antioxidant, flavonoid, and terpene properties.

After collecting the plant and preparing the methanolic extract, first, in order to identify the phytochemical compounds of the extract, GC/MS analysis was performed. Then, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) for Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans were calculated by the microbroth dilution method.

Chemical analysis of the extract revealed 85 compounds, most of which were alpha-linolenic acid, palmitic acid, P-xylene, and phytol. The MIC for S. aureus, E. coli, and C. Albicans was also calculated to be 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/ml, respectively. The MBC value was also determined as 50 mg/ml for S.aureus and E.coli and 100 mg/ml for C.albicans. All tests were performed as a duplicate.

The results of this study showed that due to the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects of this plant, its extract could be used as a substitute with minimal side effects for the treatment of common infections and inflammatory diseases.