ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF MICROORGANISMS IN HERBAL MIXTURE SOLD AT BULUMKUTTU KASUWA MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE

ABSTRACT Herbal medicines are widely used in Nigeria, especially within traditional healthcare systems, due to their accessibility, affordability, and perceived safety. However, the non-sterile conditions under which these mixtures are often prepared, stored, and sold pose significant risks of microbial contamination, which can compromise consumer safety. This study aimed to assess the microbiological quality of herbal mixtures sold at Bulumkuttu Kasuwa market in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. Three different herbal mixtures marketed for treating infections, general ailments, and ulcers were randomly sampled. Standard microbiological techniques were employed for analysis, including serial dilution, culturing on selective and non-selective media (Nutrient Agar, MacConkey Agar, and Sabouraud Dextrose Agar), and identification of isolates via Gram staining and microscopic examination. The results revealed high levels of bacterial contamination across all samples. Two of the three mixtures exhibited bacterial loads too numerous to count (TNTC), while the third had measurable colony-forming units. Identified bacterial contaminants included Staphylococcus spp. (found in all samples) and Bacillus spp. Fungal contamination was also detected in one sample, with Candida species identified. The presence of these microorganisms, particularly potential pathogens like Staphylococcus spp. and Candida spp., indicates poor hygiene practices during production and handling. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the herbal mixtures sold at Bulumkuttu Kasuwa are contaminated with significant and potentially pathogenic microbes, rendering them unsafe for human consumption. The findings underscore an urgent need for regulatory oversight, improved hygiene standards, and public awareness campaigns to ensure the safety and quality of herbal medicinal products in the region. Keywords: Herbal Medicine, Microbial Contamination, Staphylococcus spp., Bacillus spp., Candida spp., Bulumkuttu Kasuwa, Maiduguri.