Natural Remedies for Throat Infections: A Study on the Phytochemistry and Bioactivities of Phyllanthus emblica and Adhatoda vasica

Traditional medicines continue to play a vital role in treating various ailments. One such common condition is bacterial sore throat, which significantly affects human health. Early detection and accurate identification of pathogens are essential for effective treatment. In this study, bacterial pathogens such as Staphylococcus spp., Klebsiella spp., and Pseudomonas spp., were isolated from throat swab samples collected from infected patients at Government Hospital, Palakkad, Kerala. The pathogens were identified through cultural characteristics, staining techniques, and biochemical tests. A polyherbal formulation was prepared using Adhatoda vasica and Phyllanthus emblica leaves, extracted using methanol and acetone as solvents. The extraction process involved 72 hours of shaking using a shaker flask unit, followed by solvent evaporation. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, phenols, and terpenoids. Quantitative analysis of the acetone extract was performed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), which identified squalene as the major bioactive component, with a retention time of 51 minutes. Other major compound groups detected included phytols, steroids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and tannins. The antibacterial activity of acetone extracts was evaluated against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The extract showed various zones of inhibition against Klebsiella sps , Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas spp., Antibacterial activity was tested using various extract concentrations: 40 μL, 60 μL, 80 μL, and 100 μL. Increased extract concentration correlated with enhanced antibacterial activity, likely due to the presence of flavonoids, phenols, and tannins. The acetone extracts also exhibited strong antioxidant activity, with an IC₅₀ value of 72.23 μg/mL. A higher percentage of inhibition indicated greater compound absorbance, confirming the extract's potential as a natural antioxidant agent. The current reports for the first time the efficacy of synergistic effects of Adhatoda vasica and Phyllanthus emblica against throat infection causing bacteria.