Antimicrobial effect of Malaysian green tea leaves (Camellia sinensis) on the skin microbiota

Aims: Camellia sinensis (green tea) is known for its therapeutic properties (anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and antiageing). The aim of this study was to determine the in vitro inhibitory activity of green tea extract on some odorous skin commensal bacteria. Methodology and results: Tea leaves were collected from MARDI Agro Technology Park, Cameron Highlands. A standardised protocol was used to obtain green tea extract. Aqueous green tea extracts were tested for antibacterial activity by well diffusion method. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) assays were performed by broth microdilution assays using green tea extract concentrations from 16 to 0.0313 mg/mL. Green tea extract showed antibacterial activity against skin microbiota. The high antimicrobial effect was achieved against Micrococcus luteus with MIC and MBC of 0.125 and 0.25 mg/mu L respectively, followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis with MIC and MBC of 0.25 and 0.25 mg/mu L respectively, Bacillus subtilis with MIC and MBC of 0.5 and 0.5 mg/mu L respectively and lastly, Corynebacterium xerosis with MIC and MBC of 0.5 and 1.0 mg/mu L respectively. Conclusion, significance and impact of study: The results obtained from the study confirm the in vitro anti-microbial activity of green tea extracts against skin microbiota. The antibacterial effects of green tea against skin bacteria with its anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties will help in keeping skin healthy, fresh and reducing unpleasant odors.