Antimicrobial Activity and Potential of Olive Leaf Extract as a Topical Agent to Combat Staphylococcus aureus and...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• *Staphylococcus aureus* is a leading cause of skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs).
• The rise of multidrug-resistant strains, such as methicillin-resistant *S. aureus* (MRSA), necessitates novel therapeutic strategies.
• Alternative treatments are crucial to combat the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance in bacterial infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of olive leaf extract (OLE) against *Staphylococcus aureus*.
• To characterize the epidemiological profile of patients with SSTIs who could benefit from OLE treatment.
• To assess OLE's potential as an alternative antimicrobial agent for skin infections.

Main Methods:

• Antimicrobial activity of OLE was tested against reference strains (MSSA and MRSA) and 126 clinical isolates.
• Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and lethal curves were determined following CLSI guidelines.
• Epidemiological data and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of clinical isolates were analyzed.

Main Results:

• OLE demonstrated significant bactericidal activity, with MBCs ranging from 1.56% to 6.25% *w/v*.
• A 6 log₁₀CFU/mL reduction in bacterial load was observed within two hours of OLE exposure.
• Clinical isolates showed high resistance to conventional antibiotics, with MRSA strains exhibiting resistance to over six antibiotics.
• OLE exhibited 100% susceptibility against all tested *S. aureus* strains, including MRSA, at concentrations ≥6.25% *w/v*.

Conclusions:

• Olive leaf extract (OLE) possesses potent antimicrobial properties against *Staphylococcus aureus*, including MRSA.
• OLE represents a viable alternative therapeutic option for managing skin infections.
• The study supports the use of OLE in combating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.