Phytochemical Screening of Coconut Water and Bitter Leaf Extract and Antibiogram of the Mixture (Coconut Water + Bitter Leaf) on Salmonella Typhi and Streptococcus Spp

Background Nigeria, a significant player in the global economy, has a rich agricultural heritage that includes diverse crops with potential medicinal properties. Among these, coconut (Cocos nucifera) and bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) are notable for their traditional medicinal uses. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and antibacterial efficacy of extracts from these plants, individually and in combination, against Salmonella typhi and Streptococcus pyogenes, addressing the need for alternative antibacterial therapies in the face of rising antibiotic resistance.Methods Bitter leaf and coconut were collected from Bakindogo market, Kaduna, and authenticated by a botanist. The plants were prepared and macerated, with the extracts subjected to phytochemical screening using standard methods. The antibacterial activity was assessed through agar disk diffusion, determining the zones of inhibition at various extract concentrations. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were established for both pathogens.Results Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, and carbohydrates in both extracts, with anthraquinones present only in Vernonia amygdalina. The extracts showed significant antibacterial activity, particularly the mixture of Vernonia amygdalina and Cocos nucifera water. The mixture exhibited higher efficacy against Salmonella typhi, with zones of inhibition ranging from 9.5mm to 17mm, compared to Streptococcus pyogenes, which showed inhibition zones from 9.0mm to 13mm. The MIC for Salmonella typhi was 25mg/ml, with an MBC of 100mg/ml, indicating bactericidal properties at higher concentrations. Streptococcus pyogenes showed an MIC of 100mg/ml, but the MBC was not applicable, suggesting bacteriostatic effects.Conclusions The study confirms the significant antibacterial potential of Vernonia amygdalina and Cocos nucifera water extracts, particularly against Salmonella typhi. These findings support their traditional use and highlight their potential as alternative antibacterial agents. Further research and pharmaceutical exploration are recommended to fully harness these plants' medicinal properties, particularly for developing new treatments for bacterial infections.