EXPLORATION OF BETEL LEAF WASTE FOR ITS ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY

Abstract

In an attempt to reuse agrowaste, betel leaf stalk extract was found as potent antimicrobial agent. The principal compound showed antibacterial activity against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. The MIC determined between 25µg/mL to 250µg/mL and was supported by time kill experiment. The potentiality of the active principal was measured against ciprofloxacin as a standard. The active compound tentatively identified as phenolic.