Extracting a Plant Dye (Saffran Dye) Used as Antibiotic to Treat Bacterial Diseases

Abstract

The process of extracting saffron dye, the main derivative of the saffron plant, is carried out extensively and has been acknowledged for its therapeutic properties. Consequently, the objective of this investigation is to develop a novel, superior plant dye and explore its optical characteristics, structural features, and morphological composition, as well as its antibacterial properties, when extracted from the plant (referred to as saffron dye). The determination of the dye's absorbance and quality was carried out through ultraviolet (UV) analysis, a spectrophotometric technique that quantifies dye extracts at three distinct maximum wavelengths, specifically 257 nm (Picrocins), 330 nm (safranal), and 440 nm (Crocins). Additionally, the infrared absorption and emission spectrum were evaluated utilizing Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, this facilitated the identification of the initial peaks at which the saffron dye underwent absorption, and made it possible to analyze the vibrational behavior of the bonds present at these peaks. The research included examining the surface morphology using atomic force microscopy (AFM), which allowed the surface roughness of the vegetable dye to be determined. Also,  the vegetable dye purity was verified. The surface morphology analysis was conducted using both an electron microscope and a scanning electron microscope, owing to their exceptional precision. Consequently, the plant dye exhibited an oval surface appearance characterized by the presence of oval peaks adorned with short filaments, some of which displayed regularity while others were irregular. The elemental composition of the plant dye was also ascertained using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), with varying proportions being observed. Additionally, the antibacterial properties of the plant extract were evaluated, demonstrating bactericidal effects against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas, and Escherichia coli. Notably, the bactericidal effects were observed against both positive and negative bacteria. As a result, the petal extracts of Crocus sativus L. can be regarded as valuable natural sources of antibacterial agents.