The study investigated the phytochemical makeup and antibacterial properties of crude and aqueous extracts of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) Sap and Gel against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The phytochemical screening determined the presence of tannins, saponins, alkaloids and a weak presence of flavonoids. This study utilized the mean, Two- Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey test. The antibacterial properties were assessed through two- fold serial dilution method to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for each extract and the results were compared to the antibiotics Tetracycline and Gentamicin. The results showed that at 50, 80 and 100% concentration, Aloe vera sap and gel extract inhibited the bacterial growth the most and has the highest minimum inhibitory concentration while the aloe vera sap extract inhibited the least against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. At 100% concentration, there is no significant difference between the extracts and Tetracycline against Staphylococcus aureus with a p-value of 0.076. However, 100% concentration against Escherichia coli has a significant difference with a p-value of <0.001. All the other concentrations against both bacterial strains have a significant difference with a p-value of <0.05. A concentration-dependent relationship has been established with larger concentrations of Aloe vera extracts resulting in greater bacterial inhibition and increased antibacterial activity. These findings suggest the potential of Aloe vera extracts as antimicrobial agents, warranting further research for optimal formulation and mechanism of action.

College of Health Sciences Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology