Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of the Ethanol Leaf Extract from Medicago sativa

Abstract

Context:
Medicago sativa is a plant of significant ethno-medical importance and is valuable for research on oxidative and biological activities. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of its ethanol leaf extract.

Materials and Methods:
The antibacterial activity of the ethanol leaf extract of M. sativa was tested against clinical strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter aerogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Proteus mirabilis, with cefoxitin as a reference. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH spectrophotometric assay to determine free radical scavenging capacity at various extract concentrations. Nitric oxide scavenging potential was evaluated by exposing sodium nitroprusside to different extract concentrations. Phytochemical analysis of the ethanol extract was also performed to identify its bioactive constituents.

Results:
The ethanol leaf extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity against the tested pathogenic bacteria. Free radical scavenging activity varied with extract concentration in both DPPH and nitric oxide assays, indicating strong antioxidant potential. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, reducing sugars, tannins, steroids, and terpenoids.

Conclusion:
The ethanol leaf extract of Medicago sativa demonstrates potent antibacterial and antioxidant activities, supporting its traditional medicinal use in Africa. Its ability to scavenge free radicals and inhibit bacterial growth highlights its potential as a source of natural therapeutic agents.