In vitro antibacterial activity of nine essential oils and one 6xed oil obtained from Indian medicinal plants was determined using a filter paper disk method. The oils were tested against various Gram-positive and Gramneganve organisms. All the oils tested were found to be effective against one or more test organisms.
OME VOLATILE principles from Indian medicinal S plants have long been used for the treatment of infective diseases, both local and systemic. Some of the essential oils isolated in this institute and their antimicrobial activity by serial dilution method have been reported earlier (1-5). Maruzella, et al. (6-9), reinvestigated some known oils, singly and in combination, for their antibacterial activity by filter paper disk method. The present communication deals with antimicrobial activity of some further essential oils and one fixed oil from the following medicinal plants by filter paper disk method.
Artemisia absinthium Linn. (Composilae), -4bsinth.-The herb is an aromatic tonic and formerly enjoyed a high reputation in the treatment of debility and disorders of the digestive organs. It is prescribed in the form of a poultice as an antiseptic and discutient.
Cedrus deodura (Koxb.) Loud s y . C. libani Barrel var. Deodara Hook f. (Pinaceae), Himalavan cedarwood.-In ancient systems of medicine all parts of the plant were considered useful in belching, inflammations, fever, urinary discharges, bronchitis, itching, tuberculous glands, ophthalmia. piles, etc. The oil was considered useful in bruises and injuries to joints, boils, tubercular glands, and skin diseases.
Ferula jaeschkeana Vatke ( Umbelliferae) .-The gum-resin is applied to wounds and bruises by the inhabitants of Kurram valley.
Origanum wulgare Linn. (Labiutae) 1Marjoram.-The plant was considered useful in inflammations, catarrh, ear infections, bronchitis, and asthma.
Pinus excelsa Kall. syn. P . grifeithi M'Clell (Pinaceae) .-The plant was considered useful in opthalmia, liver troubles, chronic bronchitis, and griping. The seed oil is highly esteemed for its stimulating and healing powers when applied as a dressing to wounds and ulcers.