Antimicrobial Activity of Cymbopogon schoenanthus Extracts against Selected Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)-causing Bacteria

Background: Several plant species, such as Cymbopogon schoenanthus, have been traditionally employed for treating a range of illnesses. The medicinal potential of C. schoenanthus, presently traded in the Sudan market, is believed to be significant. The objective of this study is to examine the antibacterial activity of C. schoenanthus against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria that commonly cause urinary tract infections. Methods: The antimicrobial activity of C. schoenanthus extracts was evaluated using well diffusion and broth dilution methods by measuring inhibition zones and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs). Results: The largest inhibition zone was observed for S. aureus (17.0 ± 0.58 mm with diethyl ether extract), while the smallest was for E. coli (7.7 ± 0.58 mm with ethanol). MBCs ranged from 6.25 to 50 mg/mL, with both extracts showing the strongest bactericidal effect against S. aureus (MBC: 6.25 mg/mL), and the diethyl ether extract exhibiting enhanced activity against E. coli (MBC: 25 mg/mL). Conclusion: Both ethanolic and diethyl ether extracts of C. schoenanthus exhibited antibacterial activity against common UTI-causing pathogens. These findings support the traditional use of the plant and suggest potential for further investigation into its bioactive compounds.