Loop Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity of Edible Cuminum cyminum Seeds

Author:

Shishir Pratap Singh

Abstract:

Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) is a yearly herb widely recognized for its medicinal and aromatic properties. It is among oldest cultivated seed species with significant applications in nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals and food industries. This study intended to assess the antibacterial activity of cumin seed methanolic extracts against Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria’s, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus respectively. We purchased cumin seeds from a Shahjahanpur local market, Uttar Pradesh (242001), cleaned, air-dry and then grind into a fine powder. Approximately 8 g of powdered seeds were extracted using methanol at room temperature via Soxhlet apparatus for one hour. The crude extract was then serially diluted to concentrations of 100%, 50%, 25%, and 0%. Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) was used in preparation of diluted extracts, and concentrations were set at 100 μg/mL, 50 μg/mL, and 25 μg/mL, Agar well diffusion was employed to assess antimicrobial activity. Microbial suspensions were swabbed over Mueller-Hinton agar and 40 μL of each concentration of extract was put into wells. Plates underwent incubation at 37°C for a duration of 24 hours. Amoxicillin acting as the positive control while DMSO acting as the negative control. When tested against Staphylococcus aureus, the cumin seed methanolic extract showed the strongest antibacterial activity, generating a 34 milli meter diameter zone of inhibition at a dosage of 100 μg/mL. Additionally, though to a lower degree, the extract showed inhibitory effects on Escherichia coli. The results show that Cuminum cyminum seed methanolic extract has potent antibacterial properties against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Further research into the bioactive components and methods of action of cumin seeds is necessary for medicinal uses, as this work highlights the seed’s potential as a natural antibacterial agent. 

Keywords:

Antimicrobial properties, Cuminum cyminum, Edible seed, Escherichia coli, Methyl alcohol extract, Staphylococci aureus.