Study of natural antimicrobial mixtures and their stabilization

Present diploma thesis is focused on natural antimicrobial substances. The aim of the experimental part of thesis was testing of antimicrobial activity of selected natural substances in free and encapsulated forms, preparation of particles and monitoring of their long-term stability. Various teas extracts (aqueous, ethanoic and DMSO) and aqueous herbs extracts were used as plant antimicrobial substances. Liposomes and chitosan particles with encapsulated aqueous teas extracts were prepared by ultrasonication. Encapsulation efficiency, size, stability and antioxidant activity for all particles were specified. Consequently, within a two months period, long-term stability for these particles was monitored. Spectrophotometric method for determining total polyphenols was used for evaluating encapsulation efficiency as well as for monitoring of long-term stability. The DLS method was used for determination of size and stability of particles. Antioxidation activity was monitored by using spectrophotometric method using ABTS. For testing antimicrobial activity of various types of teas, herbs extracts and their mixtures and combianitons with lysozyme and antibiotics, broth dilution methods were used while using both Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial test strains. Antimicrobial activity of prepared particles was also monitored, the antimicrobial activity was especially significant with the chitosan particles. Suitable combinations of natural substances whatever with antimicrobial or antioxidation effect either in free or encapsulated form could be used for applications for example in cosmetics industry, food processing or in medicine