Comparative analysis of anti-microbial activity of fresh extracts of certain species of genus Allium L. (Alliaceae)

Many species of genus Allium show anti-microbial activity, especially species A. cepa and A. sativum [1]. That is also indicated by ethno-botanical researches [2]. However, there are other species of this distinguished genus that express different fitoncide activities. Goal of this study was to evaluate total fitoncide activity in some of wild species of genus Allium such as: A. ursinum, A. sphaerocephalon, and A.victorialis and A. flavum from natural population in continental part of Bosnia (W. Balkans). The diffusion method on blood agar for growth of bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Pseudomonas sp., Proteus sp. and Escherichia coli, and Sabouraud maltose surface for growth of fungi Candida albicans and Aspergillus sp. was used. Cultures of microorganisms were obtained from Institution for public health of Canton Sarajevo. Fresh material of bulbs and leafs of selected species of genus Allium was extracted and applied on prepared pads and exposed to temperature of above 37°C during 24hours. As reference was used antibiotic Penicillin with zone of inhibition 25mm. Results showed different degree of anti-microbial activity in relation to species of bacteria/fungi. This study showed extraordinary distinguished wide spectrum of anti-microbial activity of wild species Allium ursinum both on bacteria and especially on fungi. This provides larger opportunities for use of this species in modern pharmacology and dietetics [3]. Reduced bactericide activity of species A. sphaerocephalon indicates low concentrations of allicine, main fitoncide component in species of genus Allium L.

References: 1. Fani, MM. et al. (2007) Indian Soc Pedod Prev Dent. 25:164–8. 2. Redzic, SS. (2007) Coll Antropol 31:69–890. 3. Redzic, SJ. (2006) Ecol Food & Nutr 45:189–233.