Exploration of keji beling leaves (Strobilanthes crispa) from East Kalimantan as a Natural Antibacterial Agent

Nur Maulida Sari, Gebing Gebing, Sri Indayani, Sri Indarti, Adelia Juli Kardika, Arief Rahman, Christine Elia Benedicta, Kiamah Fathirizki Agsa Kamarati, Risna Nona

Abstract


Keji beling (Strobilanthes crispa) is a traditional plant recognised by the community for its possible medicinal properties. This study sought to examine the secondary metabolite chemicals in the leaves of keji beling from East Kalimantan and their ability to suppress the growth of harmful bacteria. Maceration was conducted utilising ethanol as the solvent, which is classified as a polar solvent. Qualitative approaches were employed to assess the content of plant secondary metabolites. Antibacterial activity was assessed through the well diffusion method against the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus sobrinus, Streptococcus mutans, and Salmonella typhi. The phytochemical research indicates that the ethanol extract of keji beling leaves comprises flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and steroids. The antibacterial test findings indicated that the ethanol extract of keji beling leaves may inhibit seven bacterial strains, exhibiting an inhibition zone of 7-9 mm at a dosage of 50-800 µg/well. The research indicates that the ethanol extract of keji beling leaves (Strobilanthes crispa) possesses potential as a natural antibacterial agent.


Keywords


Antibacterial; East Kalimantan; Phytochemicals; Strobilanthes crispa

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.14421/biomedich.2026.152.2097-2102

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Copyright (c) 2026 Nur Maulida Sari, Gebing, Sri Indayani, Sri Indarti, Adelia Juli Kardika, Arief Rahman, Christine Elia Benedicta, Kiamah Fathirizki Agsa Kamarati, Risna Nona



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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