Authors : Shahin Mohammadsadeghi, Abdorrasoul Malekpour, Saeideh Zahedi and Fatemeh Eskandari
Abstract: The methanolic extract of Sambucus nigra L. berries was studied for its in vitro antimicrobial activities through the Agar Dilution Method. The extract of the elder berry inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC15156), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi and Escherichia coli. Also, growth of Candida albicans was inhibited by crude extract of Sambacus nigra berries. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of the extract ranged from 0.625-15 μg mL-1. The phytochemical analysis of the crude extract of this medicinal plant revealed the presence of anthocyanin, vitamins A and C a well as a good source of calcium, iron and vitamin B6. It also contains sterols, tannins and essential oils and can readily be considered as a healthy food. However, more evidence is needed to really sustain any claim related to their medicinal values. The results of the present study suggest that Sambucus nigra L. can be used in treating diseases caused by the test organisms. It can also be used as a strong food preservative.
Shahin Mohammadsadeghi, Abdorrasoul Malekpour, Saeideh Zahedi and Fatemeh Eskandari, 2013. The Antimicrobial Activity of Elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) Extract Against Gram Positive Bacteria, Gram Negative Bacteria and Yeast. Research Journal of Applied Sciences, 8: 240-243.