Potencial antibacteriano do extrato aquoso dasfolhas de Schinus weinmanniifolia Mart. ex Engl

Abstract

Bacterial skin infections, associated with Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA), represent a serious public health issue due to antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation, which complicate conventional treatments. This challenge is even greater in vulnerable communities that face difficulties accessing medical care and often rely on traditional medicine. In this context, the use of medicinal plants, such as those from the schinus genus, emerges as a promising alternative. Schinus weinmanniifolia, commonly known as aroeira-rasteira, has shown antimicrobial and antioxidant potential. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of the aqueous extract of Schinus weinmanniifolia leaves (EASW) against methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant (MRSA) strains of S. aureus. Assays were conducted to determine the chemical composition of the extract, its minimum inhibitory concentration, and minimum bactericidal concentration, as well as its ability to prevent and reduce bacterial biofilms. Antioxidant activity was also assessed using dpph and abts assays. The results indicate that easw exhibited antibacterial activity, particularly against resistant strains, and showed positive effects in the inhibition and reduction of biofilms. The antioxidant activity further supports its therapeutic potential, suggesting that Schinus weinmanniifolia could be a viable alternative in the fight against bacterial skin infections, particularly in populations that traditionally use plants.