Antibacterial Activity Test of the Combination of Psidium guajava Leaves Extract and Citrus aurantifolia Juice on The Growth of Propionibacterium acnes

Abstract

Acne is a skin disease that is experienced by almost everyone. Treatment of acne with excessive antibiotic drugs causes bacterial resistance, so an alternative is needed to find sources of antibacterial drugs from natural ingredients that have potential as antibacterials. This research aims to determine the effect of a combination of guava leaves extract and lime juice on the growth of P. acnes and determine the optimal ratio of guava leaves extract and lime juice in inhibiting the growth of P. acnes. This experimental research method used completely randomized design with treatment of guava leaves extract using maceration method and lime juice combination with ratio of 1:3, 2:2, and 3:1. Data was analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Duncan’s test. The results showed that guava leaves extract and lime juice had an effect on the growth of P. acnes. All combination ratios (1:3, 2:2, and 3:1) were optimal to inhibit the growth of P. acnes with diameters of clear zone at 12.0±0.34 mm, 14.5±0.27 mm, and 15.2±0.15 mm. The positive control produced an inhibition zone of 21.1±0.31 mm. Thus, the combination of guava leaves extract and lime juice can be applied for raw material in acne-fighting product.