Unveiling the Antibacterial and Antioxidant Potential of Mentha Longifolia: A Comprehensive Characterization of Ethanolic and Hexane Extracts

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a pressing global health challenge, and the rise of resistant strains has rendered many conventional antibiotics
ineffective, leading to increased morbidity and mortality rates. This growing resistance underscores the urgent need for alternative therapeutic options, including natural products derived from plants, which may offer novel mechanisms of action against resistant bacteria. This study investigates the antibacterial properties of hexane and ethanolic extracts from Mentha longifolia leaves against three bacterial strains: Acinetobacter baumannii, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and Micrococcus luteus. Both extracts showed significant antibacterial activity, with M. luteus being the most susceptible (37 mm inhibition zone) and S. maltophilia the least (15.5 mm). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was 25 mg/mL for all strains. Timekill assays indicated complete growth inhibition after 24 hours, and biofilm formation was reduced by up to 80% against S. maltophilia. Antioxidant assays revealed reduced catalase activity, suggesting oxidative stress-mediated toxicity. Phytochemical analysis identified bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolics. Overall, the extracts demonstrate promising antibacterial properties, indicating their potential as natural alternatives for treating bacterial infections. Further in vivo studies are warranted to validate these findings.