Phytodisinfection of Wastewater - Efficacy of Ocimum Gratissimum Leaf Extract
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Date
2025-10
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UENR
Abstract
Waterborne microbial pathogens continue to pose a significant public health challenge, especially in resource-limited settings. While plant-based disinfectants offer a promising, sustainable alternative, their direct application in complex water treatment remains underresearched. This study evaluated the antimicrobial efficacy of ethanolic Ocimum gratissimum leaf extract against Escherichia coli, a primary indicator of microbial contamination. The extract’s phytochemical profile was characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to identify key functional groups. Antimicrobial activity was initially confirmed via a disc diffusion assay, followed by quantitative determination of the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) using broth microdilution. The extract’s dose-dependent efficacy was then assessed in both simulated contaminated water and real waste water samples.
The results showed that O. gratissimum extract exhibited significant inhibitory and bactericidal activity against E. coli. In sterile contaminated water, a concentration of 50% (v/v) achieved a ≥99.9% microbial reduction, confirming its potential as a potent disinfectant. However, its effectiveness was reduced in real wastewater, where a 50% concentration achieved approximately 71% microbial reduction. This reduced efficacy is attributed to the high-strength wastewater matrix, characterized by high levels of turbidity (800 NTU) and total suspended solids (TSS) (1,400 mg/L). The study's findings confirm the extract's strong dose-dependent antimicrobial potential and its value as a complementary, plant-based disinfectant for decentralized water treatment. This research provides novel insights into the practical application of O. gratissimum, suggesting its potential as a sustainable solution in resource constrained areas.
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Bactericidal, Microbial Reduction, Public Health