The utilization of natural materials derived from plants has witnessed a growing trend in the fields of pharmaceuticals and agriculture. This is primarily due to the advantageous chemical compositions of these materials, which minimize residual side effects.
Curcuma longa, commonly known as Turmeric, is a botanical species that exhibits a wide geographical distribution, primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions across the globe. The cultivation of this plant is prevalent in various Asian nations, particularly China and India. Turmeric, scientifically known as Curcuma longa, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) [1]. It possesses tuberous rhizomes, which are underground stems. Turmeric plants typically attain a height of approximately one meter (equivalent to 3.3 feet) and possess elongated, uncomplicated leaves accompanied by lengthy petioles, also known as leaf stems. The emergence of leaves occurs from the branching rhizomes located in close proximity to the soil surface. The coloration of older rhizomes tends to be brown and exhibits a scaly texture, whereas younger rhizomes display a color range from pale yellow to brown-orange [1].
Turmeric is a globally recognized spice that holds significant cultural and historical importance, particularly among Eastern societies. In addition to its application as a culinary spice, turmeric is utilized as a traditional medicinal remedy in various Asian nations, including India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, due to its advantageous characteristics [2]. The substance commonly referred to as turmeric, known as Zarchooveh in Iran, has been consistently utilized for its culinary and therapeutic attributes [2].
Medicinal plants are botanical organisms that exhibit therapeutic properties and exert advantageous pharmacological effects on both humans and animals. The utilization of medicinal plants has been a consistent and dependable means of developing novel pharmaceuticals and addressing various illnesses since the earliest stages of human civilization [2]. The comprehensive review of scholarly literature has indicated that Curcuma longa, a member of the Zingiberaceae family, is widely recognized as a versatile remedy in herbal medicine, exhibiting a broad range of pharmacological effects. The powder derived from current traditional medicine is purported to have therapeutic effects on gastrointestinal diseases, specifically targeting biliary and hepatic disorders, diabetic wounds, rheumatism, inflammation, sinusitis, anorexia, coryza, and cough [1]. The pigment responsible for the coloration of turmeric is known as curcumin, which exhibits a yellow hue and serves as the fundamental constituent of this botanical species [2].
Recent scientific research has substantiated the medicinal properties of turmeric, which include its potential as an anticancer, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, hypolipidemic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-fertility, anti-venom, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and anticoagulant agent, among others.
Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a member of the Zingiberaceae family. The root component of this plant has historically been employed for various purposes, including insect repellent, antimicrobial properties [3], anti-diabetic effects [4], treatment of rheumatism, body aches, skin diseases, intestinal worms, diarrhea, intermittent fever, hepatic disorders, biliousness, urinary discharges, dyspepsia, inflammations, constipation, leukoderma, amenorrhea, and colic inflammatory disorders [5]. The diverse medicinal properties exhibited by turmeric have led to its recognition as a spice possessing multifunctional medicinal attributes [2].
Previous research conducted by Sharif et al. [6] examined the effects of turmeric extract on the growth of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. The findings of this study indicated that the tested microorganisms experienced inhibited growth in the presence of turmeric extract. The research conducted by Moselly [7] investigated the inhibitory effect of turmeric leaf extract on the growth of Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium moniliforme. The results of the study revealed that the turmeric leaf extract exhibited the ability to hinder the growth of these fungal species.
Hence, the primary objective of this study was to examine the antibacterial efficacy of Curcuma longa extract against clinical isolates of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.