ABSTRACT:
Background: Pyrus communis Linn (Rosaceae), commonly known as Indian Pear, has been traditionally used for several medicinal purpose. P. communis is rich source of vitamin C, phenolic compound, arbutin, isoquercitrin, quercetin and chlorogenic acid. Literature revealed that fresh juice and aqueous extract of leaves of P. communis show antimicrobial potential against Staphylococcus and Escherichia coli. In the present study the fruit of P. communis was investigated for its antimicrobial potential. Objective Methods: Ethyl acetate, hydro alcoholic and aqueous extracts were prepared from peel and pulp of P. communis and investigated for antimicrobial potential. Antimicrobial potential of above mentioned extracts were analyzed by turbidimetric method and agar well diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus subtilis and Escherichia coli. Results and Discussion: Ethyl acetate, hydro alcoholic and aqueous extracts from peel and pulp of P. communis were investigated against B. cereus, E. coli, S. aureus and S. subtilis. Amongst the various extracts (ethyl acetate, hydro alcoholic and aqueous extract) of P. communis, hydro alcoholic peel extract showed the highest antimicrobial activity with MIC Value 12.5?g/ml and zone of inhibition 12?0.02. Conclusion: It can be concluded that, hydro alcoholic peel extract of P. communis showed the highest antimicrobial activity. P. communis have antimicrobial activity against different Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and can be used for prevention of various diseases caused by these organisms.