COMPARATIVE ANTIBACTERIAL EFFECT OF HONEY AND HYPOCHLORITE(JIK) SOLUTION ON GRAM NEGATIVE BACTERIA ISOLATED FROM INFECTED WOUNDS IN GBOKO TOWN

Comparative Antibacterial Effect of Honey and Hypochlorite (Jik) Solution on Gram-Negative Bacteria Isolated from Infected Wounds in Gboko Town, Benue State, Nigeria 1. Introduction Wound infections remain a significant public health challenge, particularly in developing countries where access to advanced healthcare facilities may be limited. Infected wounds often harbor a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms, with Gram-negative bacteria being among the most frequently isolated due to their resistance mechanisms and ability to thrive in moist environments. Honey has been used traditionally as a wound-healing agent due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, while hypochlorite solution (commonly known as Jik) is widely used as a disinfectant because of its strong oxidizing and bactericidal action. This study compares the antibacterial effectiveness of honey and hypochlorite solution against Gram-negative bacteria isolated from infected wounds in Gboko Town, with the aim of evaluating their relative efficacy. 2. Statement of the Problem In Gboko Town, infected wounds are commonly treated using both conventional antiseptics and traditional remedies, often without proper laboratory evaluation of their effectiveness. Gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella species are frequently implicated in wound infections and are known for their resistance to many antimicrobial agents. Despite the widespread use of honey and hypochlorite solution, there is limited local data comparing their antibacterial effects on wound-associated Gram-negative bacteria. This study therefore seeks to provide empirical evidence to guide safer and more effective wound management practices. 3. Aim and Objectives of the Study Aim To compare the antibacterial effect of honey and hypochlorite (Jik) solution on Gram-negative bacteria isolated from infected wounds in Gboko Town. Specific Objectives To collect wound swab samples from infected wounds in Gboko Town. To isolate and identify Gram-negative bacteria present in the wound samples. To evaluate the antibacterial activity of honey against the bacterial isolates. To evaluate the antibacterial activity of hypochlorite solution against the bacterial isolates. To compare the zones of inhibition produced by honey and hypochlorite solution. 4. Significance of the Study The study will: provide scientific evidence on the antibacterial effectiveness of honey and hypochlorite solution, contribute to improved wound care practices, promote the safe use of natural products in infection control, serve as a reference for further microbiological and clinical research. 5. Literature Review Overview 5.1 Gram-Negative Bacteria in Wound Infections Gram-negative bacteria commonly isolated from infected wounds include: Escherichia coli Pseudomonas aeruginosa Proteus species Klebsiella species These organisms possess outer membranes that confer resistance to many antimicrobial agents, making treatment challenging. 5.2 Antibacterial Properties of Honey Studies have shown that honey exhibits antibacterial activity through: high osmolarity, low pH, hydrogen peroxide production, presence of phytochemicals and flavonoids. Honey has been reported to be effective against a wide range of Gram-negative bacteria and also promotes wound healing. 5.3 Antibacterial Properties of Hypochlorite Solution Hypochlorite solution acts by: disrupting bacterial cell membranes, denaturing proteins, causing oxidative damage to cellular components. Although effective, improper concentration or prolonged exposure may cause tissue irritation, highlighting the need for controlled use. 6. Materials and Methods 6.1 Study Area The study will be conducted in Gboko Town, Benue State, Nigeria. 6.2 Sample Collection Wound swab samples will be collected aseptically from patients with infected wounds using sterile swab sticks and transported to the laboratory for analysis. 6.3 Isolation and Identification of Bacteria Samples will be cultured on MacConkey agar and nutrient agar. Gram staining and biochemical tests (indole, citrate, oxidase, urease, sugar fermentation) will be used to identify Gram-negative bacteria. 6.4 Antibacterial Assay Agar well diffusion method will be used. Honey and hypochlorite solution will be applied at different concentrations. Zones of inhibition will be measured and compared after incubation at 37°C for 24 hours. 7. Expected Results The study is expected to reveal that: both honey and hypochlorite solution exhibit antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, hypochlorite solution may produce larger zones of inhibition due to its strong disinfectant nature, honey demonstrates consistent antibacterial effects with added wound-healing benefits. 8. Public Health Implications The findings will help: improve evidence-based wound management, encourage safe use of honey as an alternative antibacterial agent, guide healthcare workers on appropriate antiseptic selection. 9. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of evaluating both traditional and conventional antimicrobial agents. The comparative assessment of honey and hypochlorite solution against Gram-negative bacteria isolated from infected wounds in Gboko Town will provide valuable insight into effective, affordable, and locally available wound treatment options. Selected Scholarly Sources (Google Scholar / ResearchGate / Journals) You can search and cite the following: Molan, P. C. (1992). The antibacterial activity of honey. Cooper, R. A., et al. (2002). Honey as an antimicrobial agent. Bowler, P. G., et al. (2001). Wound microbiology and associated approaches to wound management. Cheesbrough, M. (2010). District Laboratory Practice in Tropical Countries. Oyeleke, S. B., & Manga, S. B. (2008). Essentials of Laboratory Practical in Microbiology. African Journal of Clinical and Experimental Microbiology Journal of Wound Care