Pomegranate extract exhibits in vitro activity against Clostridium difficile

Objective: To determine the possible utility of pomegranate extract in the management or prevention of Clostridium difficile infections or colonization. Method: The activity of pomegranate was tested against 29 clinical C difficile isolates using the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute-approved agar dilution technique. Total phenolics content of the pomegranate extract was determined by Folin-Ciocalteau calorimetric method and final concentrations of 625 to 400 mu g/mL gallic acid equivalent were achieved in the agar. Results: All strains had MICs at 12.5 to 25 mg/mL gallic acid equivalent range. Our results suggest antimicrobial in vitro activity for pomegranate extract against toxigenic C difficile. Conclusion: Pomegranate extract may be a useful contributor to the management and prevention of C. difficile disease or colonization. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.