F. I. OKOLAFOR

This study investigates the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of ethanol and aqueous extracts of Curcuma longa (turmeric) rhizomes against clinical nasal isolates. The research aims to evaluate the efficacy of these extracts in combating microbial infections and their potential as natural antioxidants. The chemical composition of the extracts was characterized using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), revealing a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including terpenes, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and sterols. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the broth dilution method, while antioxidant potential was determined through the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. The results indicate that the ethanolic extract exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against nasal isolates, including Micrococcus species, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Streptococci species. Additionally, the aqueous extract demonstrated strong antioxidant properties, with a linear increase in activity correlating with concentration. The findings suggest that Curcuma longa extracts, particularly the ethanolic extract, hold promise as natural antimicrobial agents, while the aqueous extract shows potential as a potent antioxidant. This study underscores the therapeutic potential of Curcuma longa in addressing antibiotic resistance and oxidative stress-related conditions, providing a scientific basis for its traditional use in medicine and its application in modern healthcare