Phytochemical screening of Cocos nucifera And Vernonia amygdalina extract and antibiogram of the mixture (Cocos Nucifera + Vernonia Amygdalina) on Salmonella typhi and Streptococcus pyogenes

Background: Nigeria, a significant player in the global economy, has a rich agricultural heritage that includes diverse crops with potential medicinal properties. Among these, coconut ( Cocos nucifera ) and bitter leaf ( Vernonia amygdalina ) are notable for their traditional medicinal uses. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and antibacterial efficacy of extracts from these plants, individually and in combination, against Salmonella typhi and Streptococcus pyogenes, addressing the need for alternative antibacterial therapies in the face of rising antibiotic resistance. Methods: Bitter leaf and coconut were sourced from Bakindogo market, Kaduna, and authenticated by a botanist. Extracts were prepared and subjected to phytochemical screening using standard methods. Antibacterial activity was evaluated through agar disk diffusion to measure zones of inhibition at different extract concentrations. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined for both Salmonella typhi and Streptococcus pyogenes .Top of FormBottom of Form Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, and carbohydrates in both extracts, with anthraquinones present only in Vernonia amygdalina. The extracts showed significant antibacterial activity, particularly the mixture of Vernonia amygdalina and Cocos nucifera water. The mixture exhibited higher efficacy against Salmonella typhi, with zones of inhibition ranging from 9.5 mm to 17 mm, compared to Streptococcus pyogenes, which showed inhibition zones from 9.0 mm to 13 mm. The MIC for Salmonella typhi was 25 mg/mL, with an MBC of 100 mg/mL, indicating bactericidal properties at higher concentrations. Streptococcus pyogenes showed an MIC of 100mg/ml, but the MBC was not applicable, suggesting bacteriostatic effects. Conclusions: The study confirms the significant antibacterial potential of Vernonia amygdalina and Cocos nucifera water extracts, particularly against Salmonella typhi. These findings support their traditional use and highlight their potential as alternative antibacterial agents. Further research and pharmaceutical exploration are recommended to fully harness these plants' medicinal properties, particularly for developing new treatments for bacterial infections.