Study of Antibacterial Properties of Azadirachta indica and Trachyspermum ammi A Commonly Used Plant Material That Aids Digestion

Abstract

Azadirachta indica commonly called neem is a plant known for its medicinal value all over the world. In India it has been used as antibacterial, antifungal, anti- inflammatory agents in Ayurveda and unani medicine. Neem leaf extracts in specific are used to cure digestive problems and disturbances, intestinal parasites and also reduce discomfort. Trachyspermum ammi commonly known as ajwain is another plant material used to improve the digestion and the flavor of food. It is commonly added in those recepies which are difficult for digestion and lead to acidity and gas troubles. Aqueous extract of neem leaves and ajwain seeds were prepared to demonstrate their antimicrobial efficacy using pure culture of E.coli. Escherichia coli popularly abbreviated as E.coli is a common bacterial flora of human intestine, which helps in preventing the entry of pathogenic microorganisms. Thus it can serve as a better experimental model for bacteriological and anti-microbial studies. Growth curve was studied with the help of optical density with the help of Elico CL63 photometer. Growth curve and well diffusion were the methods used for the study. In comparative analysis of dry and fresh neem sterile aqueous extract it was found that fresh neem was more effective in inhibiting the growth of E.coli; whereas in further investigation with ajwain and fresh neem it was found that neem is more potent in inhibiting the E.coli growth.