*Sadia Rana
School of Dental Sciences, University Sains Malaysia, Malaysia
Zartashia Arooj
School of Dental Sciences, University Sains Malaysia, Malaysia
*Corresponding address: School of Dental Sciences, University Sains Malaysia, Malaysia
Email: sadiarana@student.usm.my
https://doi.org/10.63137/jsteam.879580
Keywords: Anti-bacterial; Medicine; Pharmacology; Tea tree oil
ABSTRACT
Background
Tea tree oil (TTO) from Melaleuca alternifolia is renowned for its therapeutic properties, including antimicrobial effects. Standardized by ISO 4730:2017, TTO’s major component, terpinen-4-ol, contributes to its broad spectrum of activity. Notably, TTO demonstrates efficacy against Cutibacterium acnes, suggesting a potential role in acne treatment. In the context of Klebsiella pneumoniae (Kp), a carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacillus associated with pneumoniae, this study explores TTO’s antibacterial and anti-adherent activities.
Methods
A 15% TTO solution was prepared, chemically analyzed via GC-MS, and tested in vitro against Kp strains. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using microdilution method. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was calculated using tube dilution method. Minimum inhibitory adherence concentration (MIAC) was also calculated using Albuquerque protocol.
Results
Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined, revealing strong antimicrobial effects with a MIC50 of 128 μg/mL, and MBC of 256 µg/mL, MIAC of 256 µg/mL concentration against Kp strains respectively.
Conclusion
The study underscores TTO’s pharmacological potential against antibiotic-resistant bacteria like Kp, particularly in PU-associated infections. Further research is needed to validate efficacy, elucidate mechanisms, and develop suitable formulations for clinical use.
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How to Cite this: Rana S, Arooj Z. Assessment of the antimicrobial impact of Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil on Klebsiella pneumoniae strains. J Sci Technol Educ Art Med. 2024;1(1):21-27
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