Antimicrobial potential of the ethanolic extract of Cadillo (Bidens pilosa Linneo.) against Salmonella typhimurium causing gastrointestinal infections

During a gastrointestinal bacterial infection process, it is common for the population to take antibiotics indiscriminately. However, improper use of these can cause bacterial resistance; for this reason, alternative treatments are sought, using medicinal plants. Purpose: To evaluate the antimicrobial potential of the ethanolic extract of Cadillo (Bidens pilosa L.) against Salmonella typhimurium, which causes gastrointestinal infections. Methods: The ethanolic extract was obtained by maceration of 200g. of dried and ground leaves of Bidens pilosa L., in 1250 ml of absolute ethyl alcohol. The presence of the Phytoconstituents was determined by traditional chemical methods. The antibacterial effect was evaluated by the Kirby-Bauer method for concentrations of 125, 250, 500, and 1000 mg/mL. The evaluation of the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) was carried out by the Broth Macrodilution method. Results: A predominance of steroids and terpenoids was found in the extract. The antibacterial activity was present in all extracts, achieving inhibition zones from 10.097 mm ± 0.348 to 33.773 mm ±0.292, with inhibition percentages from 38.9 to 130.0 %. A MIC of 15.6 mg/mL and a MBC of 31.25 mg/mL were obtained. Conclusions: The ethanolic extract of Bidens pilosa L. has a high antimicrobial potential against Salmonella typhimurium, and it is suggested to continue with studies that propose the use of this extract as a new alternative treatment for salmonellosis.