Lawsonia inermis (Henna) Extracts as a Sustainable Solution to Combat Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria in Surface Water, Sewage, and Abattoir Leachate: A Quantitative Antimicrobial Analysis

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical global public health threat, exacerbated by the presence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in environmental matrices, particularly in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This study investigated the potential of Lawsonia inermis (Henna) extracts to inhibit MDR bacteria in surface water, sewage, and abattoir leachate. Using cold maceration extraction method, and methanol and aqueous as solvent, the antibacterial activity of Henna leaf and seed extracts was assessed against eight MDR isolates obtained from surface water, sewage, and abattoir leachate. The results showed exceptional antimicrobial activity, especially with seed methanol extracts demonstrating 100% inhibition against MDR bacteria, followed by the seed aqueous and leaf methanol (93.7%). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values confirmed the efficacy of Henna extracts. All the extracts displayed profound activity (AI) against S. enterica AGS ₂ strain. Citrobacter freundii ADAI was the most susceptible isolate. Our findings suggest that Henna extracts could serve as a viable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution for reducing MDR bacteria in environmental matrices, particularly in LMICs. This study highlights the potential of plant-based products in combating AMR in environmental matrices and promoting global public health. The results have significant implications for the development of sustainable sewage, abattoir leachate and water treatment strategies and the control of AMR in LMICs through plant-based solutions.