EVALUATION OF Moringa oleifera AND Azadirachta indica EXTRACTS FOR WATER PURIFICATION AND INHIBITION OF SELECTED WATERBORNE BACTERIA

OGBUKE, CHIAMAKA JESSICA (2026) EVALUATION OF Moringa oleifera AND Azadirachta indica EXTRACTS FOR WATER PURIFICATION AND INHIBITION OF SELECTED WATERBORNE BACTERIA. Other thesis, GODFREY OKOYE UNIVERSITY, ENUGU,.

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Abstract

This study investigated the effectiveness of Moringa oleifera and Azadirachta indica (Neem) extracts in the purification of contaminated water and inhibition of waterborne bacteria. The aim was to evaluate their antimicrobial activity and their effects on selected physicochemical and microbiological parameters of water samples. Four contaminated water samples were treated with varying concentrations of aqueous and ethanolic plant extracts. Physicochemical parameters, including pH and turbidity, were analysed before and after treatment. Microbiological analysis was carried out using total heterotrophic bacterial count and Most Probable Number (MPN) techniques for coliform detection. Isolates obtained were further subjected to morphological, microscopic, and biochemical tests for identification. Results showed that the pH of the water samples remained within acceptable limits before and after treatment, indicating minimal impact on chemical properties. However, turbidity was significantly reduced, reflecting improved water clarity. Microbial analysis revealed high bacterial loads in untreated samples, while treated samples showed a drastic reduction in microbial count, with complete absence of coliform bacteria (0/100 mL). Biochemical characterization supported the identification of bacterial isolates, while a residual organism consistent with Bacillus species was observed after treatment, likely due to its spore-forming ability and resistance to antimicrobial conditions. Comparative analysis indicated that Azadirachta indica exhibited higher antimicrobial activity than Moringa oleifera. These findings demonstrate that the plant extracts are effective in reducing microbial contamination and improving water quality, and highlight their potential as low-cost and sustainable alternatives for water purification in resource-limited settings.

Item Type: Thesis (Other)
Subjects: Q Science > Q Science (General)
Divisions: Faculty of Natural Sciences and Environmental Studies
Depositing User: Nnenna Ayo
Date Deposited: 05 Aug 2026 13:53
Last Modified: 05 Aug 2026 13:53
URI: http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/6195

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