Antibacterial Activity of Earthworm Extract (Lumbricus rubellus) from Organic Farmland in Bali Agaist Streptococcus pyogenes Bacteria

Abstract

Introduction: Bacterial infections are still a global health problem. Severe bacterial infections can lead to morbidity and mortality. Streptococcus pyogenes (S.pyogenes) is one of the bacteria that causes health problems including pharyngitis, necrotizing fasciitis, and even toxic shock syndrome. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, but the incidence of antibiotic resistance is currently very worrying. Earthworm extract (Lumbricus rubellus) contains various substances that have the potential to be antibacterial, one of which is lumbricin-1. Aim: This study aims to test the antibacterial activity of earthworm extract (Lumbricus rubellus) from organic farmland in Bali against S. pyogenes bacteria. Method: This study is an experimental study. Twenty-five samples were divided into 5 groups, namely the negative control group, positive control, and 3 extract treatment groups (50%, 75%, and 100%). The method used was the disc diffusion test method. Results: The results of the observation found the inhibitory power of earthworm extract (Lumbricus rubellus) from organic farmland in Bali against S. pyogenes bacteria at various extract concentrations (p <0.05). The inhibitory ability of earthworm extract (Lumbricus rubellus) from organic farmland in Bali against S. pyogenes is in the strong category. Conclusion: Earthworm extract (Lumbricus rubellus) from organic farmland in Bali has strong inhibitory ability against S. pyogenes bacteria and the effect is found to be dose dependent. Contribution: This research is expected to be a reference and basis for finding new sources of antibiotics from nature and developing earthworms from organic farmland in Bali towards phytopharmaceuticals