Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Potential of Garcinia mangostana Pericarp Extract: A Natural Therapeutic Agent

Abstract

Garcinia mangostana, commonly known as mangosteen, has been traditionally used in Asian cultures for its medicinal properties. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of mangosteen pericarp extract against various bacterial and fungal pathogens. The pericarp was dried, powdered, and extracted in distilled water at concentrations of 1%, 5%, and 10%. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Bacillus spp., and Candida albicans. The extract exhibited significant antimicrobial activity, with zones of inhibition increasing in a concentration-dependent manner. The 10% extract demonstrated the most potent inhibitory effects. These findings support the traditional use of mangosteen pericarp and suggest potential development as a natural antimicrobial agent. Future research should focus on isolating active compounds and evaluating their efficacy in vivo.