GC-MS-FID characterization and antibacterial activity of the essential oil from Achyrocline satureioides (Lam) DC

Achyrocline satureioides (Lam.) DC is a plant in the Asteraceae family that is commonly known as macela or marcela. It has antidiarrheal, antispasmodic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The species Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli are of great clinical importance, thus more evidence on the discovery of new compounds from plant species is required. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical profile and in vitro antimicrobial potential of essential oils from A. satureioides. A Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) test was performed using microdilution, and the chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed using Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass spectrometry (GC / MS). Using the GC / MS analysis, we identified alpha-pinene and (E)-cariophilene as major phytoconstituents. We observed synergisms when the essential oil was combined with gentamicin and ampicillin against the S. aureus strain, as well as against E. coli when combined with gentamicin and norfloxacin. The results were promising, but further research is needed to assess the toxicity of A. satureioides oil and its potential for therapeutic use in humans.