Antimicrobial activity of Moringa oleifera and its synergism with Cleome viscosa

The phytochemical study, antioxidant activity and in vitro antibacterial activity of acetone, methanol and chloroform extracts of Moringa oleifera roots were investigated. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids and alkaloids in roots of Moringa oleifera. The extracts were screened for in vitro antibacterial activity against selected otitis media pathogens S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, K. pneumoniae and S. pneumoniae by disc diffusion method. Most prominent activity was shown by acetone extract against P. aeruginosa and S. pneumoniae followed by E. coli, S. aureus, and K. pneumoniae. Effective zone range was 19-35 mm and MIC range was 4-16 mg/ml. Antioxidant activity of Moringa oleifera in acetone extract was 84.23 %, 60.00 % and 43.30 % at 10?g/ml, 50?g/ml and 100?g/ml respectively. Moringa oleifera and Cleome viscosa combination demonstrated strong synergistic effect towards K. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. pneumoniae and S. aureus. The antibacterial effects of Moringa oleifera alone as well as in combination with Cleome viscosa against all tested pathogens suggest their potential use as alternative tools for controlling otitis media.