International Journal of Homoeopathic Sciences

Background: Homeopathic medicines are increasingly investigated for their potential antimicrobial properties, particularly in the context of antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of Echinacea angustifolia and Argentum metallicum in various homeopathic potencies against Staphylococcus aureus using the agar well diffusion method.
Methods: The antimicrobial activity was tested using standard agar well diffusion assays against Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 96). Samples of Echinacea angustifolia and Argentum metallicum at potencies Ø, 6CH, 30CH, 200CH, and 1M were compared with Chloramphenicol (positive control) and 90% alcohol (negative control). The diameter of inhibition zones was measured and recorded.
Results: Echinacea angustifolia mother tincture (Ø) exhibited the strongest antibacterial effect, with inhibition zones increasing proportionally with concentration (50-100 μL). Among potencies, 6CH and 30CH of both remedies produced measurable inhibition zones (10-14 mm), while higher potencies showed reduced effects. Chloramphenicol produced a 20-21 mm inhibition zone, confirming higher potency of the antibiotic control.
Conclusion: Both Echinacea angustifolia and Argentum metallicum demonstrated measurable antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, supporting their potential use as complementary agents in managing infections and combating antibiotic resistance.