Potential Use of Schkuhria Pinnata in the Control of Mastitis Pathogens

This study investigated the potential use of Dwarf Marigold (Schkuhria pinnata) in the control of mastitis pathogens. Schkuhria pinnata (SP) juice extracted using either distilled water or methanol as diluents with selected concentrations ((20%, 40%, 80% and 100%) was tested for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureas, Streptoccus agalactiae and Escherichia coli bacteria. Total Bacterial Count (TBC) for each extract concentration was then determined by visual assessment through plate count on bacterial colonies. Although plant extracts were not as effective as Gentamycin (commercial control), SP extracts had a significant antibacterial activity (P<0.05) against Staphylococcus aureas, Streptococcus agalactiae and Escherichia coli bacteria. Type of diluent had no effect (P>0.05) on bacterial counts. Escherichia coli had significantly lower (P<0.05) TBC than Staphylococcus aureas and Streptococcus agalactiae. Schkuriah pinnata extracts could be considered as potentially effective antibacterial agent and can be developed as an alternative therapy against bovine mastitis.