PHYTOCHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS, ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS, AND ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITIES OF METHANOLIC ROOT EXTRACT OF MORINGA OLEIFERA: A NATURAL ALTERNATIVE TO ANTIBIOTICS IN THE FIGHT AGAINST ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE

Abstract

Abstract

The roots of Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the drumstick tree, have been used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments for decades. This study investigates the phytochemical constituents, elemental composition, and antimicrobial activities of methanolic root extracts from M. oleifera, focusing on its potential as a natural alternative to antibiotics, particularly in the context of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The extract was analysed for alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, saponins, and other bioactive compounds. Elemental analysis revealed the presence of trace metals, including copper, iron, chromium, and cadmium, all within the permissible limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO, 1996). Antimicrobial assays demonstrated significant activity against a range of bacterial pathogens, including multi drug-resistant strains such as Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, E. coli, and Shigella dysenteriae, with a dose-dependent response at concentrations ranging from 50–300 mg/mL. The Kruskal-Walli’s test revealed significant differences in the inhibition zones between concentrations (p-value < 0.05), suggesting that antimicrobial activity increases with concentration. These findings highlight the potential of M. oleifera root extract as a natural antimicrobial agent, offering a promising alternative to conventional antibiotics in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.