An in vitro evaluation of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.) and Siwak (Salvadora persica) extracts for controlling the foulbrood pathogens of honeybee

Instead of the synthetic antibiotics, the antibacterial activity of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of both Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.) and Siwak (Salvadora persica) plants was evaluated against the foulbrood bacteria under the laboratory conditions. To the study knowledge, it is the first time to evaluate Siwak plant against the foulbrood diseases. The major antimicrobial constituents (total phenolics, flavonoids and tannins) were determined quantitatively in the extracts using the spectrophotometer technique. The results showed these extracts had significant antibacterial effects against the selected pathogens, Paenibacillus larvae and Melissococcus plutonius.