Aim: Household ancient remedies reported here are described in the National List of Essential Medicines and have traditionally been used in Thailand to treat infection-related ailments. However, the safety and effectiveness of these remedies have been poorly evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial properties of these remedies against seven gram-positive and gram-negative multidrug-resistant bacteria species. Phytochemical constituents and cytotoxicity of these remedies were also determined.
Methods: Seven remedies, consisting of Um-Ma-Luk-Ka-Wa-Tee, Chan-Ta-Lee-La, Kheaw-Hom, Learng-Pid-Sa-Mud, Pra-Sa-Chan-Dang, Dhart-Ban-Chob, and Tree-Hom, were prepared by a licensed traditional medical doctor using a mixture of medicinal plants. Antibacterial activity of ethanol extracts of the remedies was determined by using a broth microdilution method. Qualitative phytochemical screening analysis was carried out to identify the presence of major components. Cytotoxicity activities of the extracts against Vero cells were assessed by green fluorescent protein-based assay.
Results: With the exception of Dhart-Ban-Chob extract, significant minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of <16 to 32 μg/mL were observed for the remedy extracts depending on the bacterial strains. The Um-Ma-Luk-Ka-Wa-Tee extract was noncytotoxic against Vero cells and possessed the highest activity, with MICs of <16 to 31 μg/mL against all methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates.
Conclusions: Remarkable antibacterial activities against multidrug-resistant pathogens, as well as low toxicity on Vero cells, of Um-Ma-Luk-Ka-Wa-Tee support the use of this remedy in traditional medicine. Further investigation on other biological activities related to traditional applications, appropriate biomarkers, and treatment mechanisms of the household remedy are required.