Antimicrobial Activity of Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Against Gram-Negative Bacteria: An in Vitro Study

The global rise in multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria necessitates alternative antimicrobial strategies. This study assesses the in vitro antimicrobial activity of Curcuma longa (turmeric) ethanolic extract against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Salmonella enterica. Using the agar well diffusion method, the turmeric extract exhibited maximum inhibition against E. coli (22 mm), followed by K. pneumoniae (18 mm) and S. enterica (16 mm). Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of curcumin, alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins, all contributing to antibacterial activity. The results underline turmeric’s potential as a plant-derived antimicrobial agent.