MICROBIAL EVALUATION AND ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTIES OF COCONUT WATER FROM THREE MARKET IN BENIN CITY

Coconut is one of the most nutritionally and economically valuable foods known to humankind. Its various edible products further enhance its significance, making the coconut palm a highly valued tree, especially in tropical regions where it is widely cultivated. Due to the increasing resistance of microorganisms to commonly used antibiotics, there is a growing need for alternative antimicrobial agents. This study investigated the antibacterial activity of coconut water obtained from both young and mature coconut fruits against selected gastrointestinal bacteria. Gastrointestinal bacteria are known to cause infections that primarily affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. For this study, coconuts were sourced from three locations in Benin: Oluku Market, NIFOR, and Iguosa Market. Coconut water contains lauric acid, a bioactive compound with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, which helps strengthen the immune system. Additionally, coconut water plays a role in improving digestion and nutrient absorption while offering a low-calorie alternative to other beverages. Given its natural antimicrobial potential, coconut water could serve as a functional food with therapeutic benefits, particularly in managing gastrointestinal infections. Further research into its mechanisms of action and potential applications in clinical settings could provide new insights into its role as a natural remedy for bacterial infections Coconut is one of the most nutritionally and economically valuable foods known to humankind. Its various edible products further enhance its significance, making the coconut palm a highly valued tree, especially in tropical regions where it is widely cultivated. Due to the increasing resistance of microorganisms to commonly used antibiotics, there is a growing need for alternative antimicrobial agents. This study investigated the antibacterial activity of coconut water obtained from both young and mature coconut fruits against selected gastrointestinal bacteria. Gastrointestinal bacteria are known to cause infections that primarily affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. For this study, coconuts were sourced from three locations in Benin: Oluku Market, NIFOR, and Iguosa Market. Coconut water contains lauric acid, a bioactive compound with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, which helps strengthen the immune system. Additionally, coconut water plays a role in improving digestion and nutrient absorption while offering a low-calorie alternative to other beverages. Given its natural antimicrobial potential, coconut water could serve as a functional food with therapeutic benefits, particularly in managing gastrointestinal infections. Further research into its mechanisms of action and potential applications in clinical settings could provide new insights into its role as a natural remedy for bacterial infectionsCoconut is one of the most nutritionally and economically valuable foods known to humankind. Its various edible products further enhance its significance, making the coconut palm a highly valued tree, especially in tropical regions where it is widely cultivated. Due to the increasing resistance of microorganisms to commonly used antibiotics, there is a growing need for alternative antimicrobial agents. This study investigated the antibacterial activity of coconut water obtained from both young and mature coconut fruits against selected gastrointestinal bacteria. Gastrointestinal bacteria are known to cause infections that primarily affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. For this study, coconuts were sourced from three locations in Benin: Oluku Market, NIFOR, and Iguosa Market. Coconut water contains lauric acid, a bioactive compound with antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, which helps strengthen the immune system. Additionally, coconut water plays a role in improving digestion and nutrient absorption while offering a low-calorie alternative to other beverages. Given its natural antimicrobial potential, coconut water could serve as a functional food with therapeutic benefits, particularly in managing gastrointestinal infections. Further research into its mechanisms of action and potential applications in clinical settings could provide new insights into its role as a natural remedy for bacterial infections