engleski

Susceptibility of uropathogenic strain of Escherichia coli and Enterococcus fecalis on strawberry tree (Arbutus Unedo L.) leaf extracts

The objective of the present study was to evaluate strawberry tree (Arbutus Unedo L.) leaf extracts for its antibacterial activity against uropathogenic bacteria. Arbutus unedo L. is a species of strawberry tree, widely represented in the Mediterranean climates. The leaves have been reported to possess several biological properties such as anti-aggregant, laxative, anti-inflammatory, etc. The antimicrobial potential of strawberry tree leaves extracts against the most common uropathogens, Escherichia coli and Enterococcus spp., was determined using agar well diffusion and microdilution methods. In contrast to mild effect to E. coli, all Enterococcus strains showed high susceptibility to strawberry tree leaves extracts. However, all tested E. coli and Enterococcus strains were higly sensitive to hydroquinone, metabolic bioactive molecule which is converted from arbutin presented at high concentration in the strawberry tree leaves. In conclusion, strawberry tree leaves extract showed great antibacterial potential against tested uropathogenic bacteria and could be used in the prevention and as support in the treatment for urinary tract infections.

strawberry tree; leaves extracts; uropathogens; antimicrobial

This work was supported by Croatian Serbian bilateral program of cooperation in science and technology 2016-2017, and by the City of Mali Lošinj Tourist Board.