Medicinal plants have been the source of various therapeutic agents since the ages. Among one of them is Scoparia dulcis, a commonly found herb in India that has been recognized for its immense potential in the treatment of diabetes. Though the plant has been used only for treating diabetes in general, it is also known to possess antibacterial properties on its own. In this study, we determined the effect of S.dulcis extract on major UTI (Urinary Tract Infections) causing bacteria Escherchia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The effect of the plant extract on various virulence factors that are responsible for the pathogenicity of the uropathogens was analyzed. The bioactive compounds from the plant were extracted using ethanol. Virulence factors such as haemolysis, haemagglutination, proteolysis, lipolysis, cell surface hydrophobicity and gelatinase production were studied. It was observed that the extract inhibited almost all the virulence factors of both the pathogens. Based on the study it can be concluded that Scoparia dulcis is a potent inhibitor of both E.coli and S.aureus that affects their virulent factors that are involved in haemolysis, hameagglutination, proteolysis, lipolysis and gelatinase production.In future, the study can be extended to in vivo studies which will help in determining the efficiency of the plant extract in being used as a commercial drug against urinary tract infections.
