Antimicrobial activity of Quercus infectoria Olivier against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Abstract

Benganee or Nut gall (Quercus infectoria Olivier) has been used in Thai traditional medicine.  It is tumor formed at any part of the tree as a result of a puncture by an insect. The gall is hard, globular shape. Tannins are the major phytochemical constituents (50-70%) including gallotannin. Other constituents are gallic acid, ellagic acid, alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids and resin. Nut gall extract has been pharmacologically documented on their antimicrobial activity against various microorganisms including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The appearance of pseudomulticellular bacteria in the treated cells and the synergistic effect of the nut gall extract with b-lactamase-susceptible penicillins suggest that the extract may interfere with staphylococcal enzymes including wall autolysins and b-lactamase. Therefore, Nut gall is herb with potential for drug development.