GC-MS analysis and evaluation of antibacterial activity of Sida cordifolia leaf extracts from Jaffna, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Introduction: Antimicrobials are becoming less effective due to growing antimicrobial resistance; thus, finding alternatives is crucial. Medicinal plants provide valuable sources of antimicrobial compounds. In traditional medicine, Sida cordifolia is employed to treat inflammation, wounds, and skin infections. Objective: To identify the bioactive compounds in S. cordifolia leaf extracts and evaluate their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Methods: Methanol, ethyl acetate, and petroleum ether leaf extracts were prepared using a maceration process. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. Phytochemical analysis of the methanolic leaf extract was performed using GC-MS. Results: Methanolic extracts showed the highest antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and E. coli. The MICs of methanol, ethyl acetate, and petroleum ether extracts were 50 mg/ml, 100 mg/ml, and 100 mg/ml, respectively. The GC-MS analysis results revealed that long-chain fatty acids are the major compounds. Conclusion: The findings support the traditional use of S. cordifolia as an antimicrobial agent.