Preliminary assessment for the investigation of the phytochemical constituents and antimicrobial activity of Aloe ferox leaf extract as a foundation for medicinal applications

Aloe ferox has gained significant attention for its medicinal properties, including wound healing, cosmetic ingredients, and food supplements. This study aimed to analyze the phytochemical content and antimicrobial activity of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Aloe ferox leaves from Kotei, Ghana in addressing the pressing global challenge of antimicrobial resistance. The phytochemical screening was done using the collected aqueous and organic extracts under standard protocols. Antimicrobial activity was tested against gram-positive, gram-negative bacteria, and fungal strains using the broth microdilution method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assessment was determined by serial dilutions. Nine key phytochemicals, including carotenoids, alkaloids, coumarins, tannins, phenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, and steroids, were found in the most active ethanol extract. The ethanol extracts broader spectrum inhibitions against gram-positive, gram-negative bacterial, and fungal strains demonstrating its promising efficacy. The MIC concentration ranged from 12.5 to 50 µg/mL, indicating promising efficacy relative to fluconazole and ciprofloxacin controls. With the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, the findings support the potential medicinal applications of Aloe ferox for wound healing, skin infections, and antidiabetic treatments. Future studies on compounds purification, isolation, and characterization is required to validate its therapeutic properties and utilization in integrative and alternative medicine approaches. This is the first phytochemical and antimicrobial assessment of A.ferox in Ghana. Phytochemicals revealed A.ferox contains nine bioactive compounds. Antimicrobial test of A.ferox shows potential efficacy against bacteria and fungi. This study suggests key awareness for pharmaceutical applications of Aloe ferox. This study provides baseline evidence for A.ferox toxicity research and product development.