Abstract

The current study includes ethnobotanical and antibacterial importance of Salvadora persicaL. roots which are commonly used by different Muslim communities worldwide. Various medicinal properties are attributed to S. persica in traditional system of medicine. A detailed survey was conducted in different parts of Saudi Arabia to obtain information about the folklore uses, knowledge of local people and traditional healers about this popular plant. Based on the results obtained, it was concluded that S. persica is a versatile medicinal plant used to treat different human and livestock ailments. It is used for dental care, antiulcer, and possesses anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, various parts of S. persica are being used as food, fruits and fodder. S. persica aqueous extract and methyl alcohol extract were prepared and tested against selected pathogenic microbes: Staphylococcus aureus, S. mutans, Lactobacillus acifophilus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, by standard protocol. The aqueous extract showed significant inhibition in the growth of all pathogens tested in the current study. However, S. persica water extract was found to possess profound inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus species as compared to other extracts. Methyl alcohol extract was more active against L. acifophilus and P. aeruginosa. The results indicate promising antibacterial activity of S. persica root extract and recommend further study on its efficacy and safety. 

Key words: Salvadora persica L., antibacterial activity, oral pathogen, ethnobotanical uses.