Comparative Analysis of the efficacy of Allium Savitum (Garlic) and Erythromycin on Streptococcus Pyogenes

Abstract

Comparative efficacy of garlic and erythromycin on streptococcus pyogenes was carried out in vitro using agar-well diffusion technique. The streptococcus pyogenes used were isolated fromthe conjunctiva of infected patients that visitedAbia StateUniversity,Optometry clinic. The isolated microorganisms were identified and characterized using standard laboratory methods like gram stain, catalase test and bacitracin test. Diameter of zone of inhibition was measured for different concentrations of garlic and erythromycin. The data collected were tabulated and analyzed using student's t-test at 0.05 level of significance. The results of the study showed that streptococcus pyogenes was sensitive to both garlic and erythromycin with the latter being more efficacious. The effect of garlic on the microorganismwas also found to be concentration dependent. The minimum inhibitory concentration was found to be 31.25mg/ml. The antibacterial activity of garlic could be used as a preventative measure rather than curative in the management of microorganisms like streptococcus pyogenes.

Keywords: erythromycin, agar-well diffusion technique, minimum inhibitory concentration