The Potential of Active Compounds in Gelinggang Leaf Extract as a Natural Antimicrobial for Laying Hens

Cassia alata L. (gelinggang) has been widely reported to contain bioactive secondary metabolites with antimicrobial properties. The advantages of utilizing Cassia alata L. encompass its antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antiviral, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antihepatotoxic, and cytotoxic properties. This in vitro laboratory study aimed to evaluate the nutritional composition, phytochemical profile, and antibacterial activity of gelinggang leaf extract as a potential natural antimicrobial feed ingredient. Antibacterial activity was evaluated against Escherichia coli and Salmonella sp. using the agar well diffusion method. Proximate analysis revealed that Cassia alata leaf powder contained 20.35% crude protein, 10.05% crude fiber, 5.32% crude fat, 5.45% ash, and 51.44% nitrogen-free extract. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, phenolics, glycosides, triterpenoids, and steroids. The ethanol extract demonstrated moderate inhibitory antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Salmonella sp. at concentrations ranging from 50% to 100%; in contrast, lower concentrations exhibited weak activity inhibition. Cassia alata leaf extract demonstrated nutritional value with high protein content (20.35%) and moderate in vitro antibacterial potential, indicating its promise as a natural antimicrobial candidate.