Abstract

IN VITRO ANTIBACTERIAL EVALUATION OF DHANYAKA (CORIANDRUM SATIVUM LINN.) FRUIT AGAINST STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS

*Akanksha Gupta, Rohit Johari

Abstract

Background: Ayurveda emphasizes Padachatushtaya (four pillars of therapeutics), where Dravya (medicinal substance) plays a key role in managing diseases. Dhanyaka (Coriandrum sativum Linn.) is a popular culinary and medicinal herb noted in Ayurvedic texts for treating Shwasa and Kasa (respiratory diseases). It is recognized for its Krimighna (antimicrobial) properties. With rising antimicrobial resistance, it has become crucial to scientifically validate the use of traditional medicinal plants. Aim: To evaluate the in vitro antibacterial activity of Dhanyaka (Coriandrum sativum Linn.) fruit against Staphylococcus aureus using the agar well diffusion method. Materials and Methods: An in vitro experimental study was conducted using Staphylococcus aureus MTCC 737. Authenticated Dhanyaka (Coriandrum sativum Linn.) fruits were tested for antibacterial activity using the agar well diffusion assay. Test samples were prepared at concentrations of 50 mg/mL and 100 mg/mL. Gentamicin (5 μL/mL) served as the positive control, while dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) acted as the negative control. Zones of inhibition (ZOI) were measured after incubating the plates at 37°C for 18–24 hours. Results: The test drug showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with ZOI values of 18 mm at 50 mg/mL and 20 mm at 100 mg/mL. Gentamicin produced a ZOI of 26 mm, while DMSO showed only the well diameter of 8 mm, indicating no antibacterial activity. Conclusion: The findings indicate that Dhanyaka (Coriandrum sativum Linn.) has significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus in a concentration-dependent manner. This study provides initial scientific evidence that supports the traditional Ayurvedic use of Dhanyaka (Coriandrum sativum Linn.) and suggests the need for further research, including phytochemical and clinical studies.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Dhanyaka, Coriandrum sativum, Antibacterial Activity, Krimighna, Staphylococcus aureus.