Phytochemical Composition and Antibacterial Potential of Vitex trifolia L. Against Pneumonia Causing Bacteria

Baiq Ayu Aprilia Mustariani, Mutazam Multazam, Wirdatul Suryanah, Viki Nihayatussa'adah

Abstract


This study investigated the phytochemical composition and antibacterial activity of Vitex trifolia L. (Legundi) in response to the increasing need for alternative therapeutic agents against pneumonia-causing bacteria. The research aimed to evaluate secondary metabolite distribution across roots, stem bark, leaves, and fruits, and to assess their effectiveness against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. A laboratory-based experimental design was employed, involving maceration extraction using 70% ethanol, qualitative phytochemical screening, and antibacterial testing through the agar well diffusion method at multiple extract concentrations. Results reveal that all plant parts contain flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and steroids, with terpenoids present in bark and fruits. Leaves and fruits exhibited the strongest antibacterial responses, particularly at 80% and 100% concentrations, reflecting their richer phytochemical profiles. S. aureus showed the highest susceptibility, followed by S. pneumoniae and K. pneumoniae, consistent with differences in bacterial cell-wall structure. These findings demonstrate Legundi’s potential as a natural antibacterial agent, provide new insights into plant-part variation and dose-dependent effects, and strengthen the scientific foundation for developing plant-based therapeutic alternatives. Further research on compound isolation, quantitative assays, and in vivo validation is recommended to enhance the clinical relevance of these results.

Keywords


Vitex trifolia L.; Legundi; phytochemical screening; antibacterial activity; pneumonia-causing bacteria; medicinal plants

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.14421/biomedich.2026.151.177-188

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Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry
ISSN 2089-6514 (paper) - ISSN 2540-9328 (online)
Published by Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity.

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