Exploring Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Stem Extract as a Natural Antimicrobial Agent: In Vitro Evidence and Phytochemical Insights

Abstract

The global escalation of antimicrobial resistance necessitates the discovery of novel therapeutic agents, particularly from natural sources. This study evaluates the in vitro antimicrobial activity and phytochemical screening of the vacuum-dried ethanolic extract of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis stem (EENAS) using the disc diffusion method. EENAS demonstrated measurable antibacterial activity against Serratia marcescens (ATCC 174; 7 mm inhibition zone) and Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212; 10 mm), and antifungal activity against Candida albicans (ATCC 10231;0 mm) and Aspergillus niger (ATCC 16404; 7 mm). Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, steroids, and terpenoids classes of metabolites commonly associated with antimicrobial action. These findings indicate that provide scientific support for the traditional medicinal use of  N. arbor-tristis stem extract possesses moderate antimicrobial potential and further investigation, including broader microbial screening and isolation of bioactive constituents.