Microbiological Analysis of Impurities in Pimpinella anisum L., Sold in Natural Products Shops in Apucarana PR Brazil and Neighboring Towns

Abstract

The phyto-therapy use of medicinal herbs for the treatment of diseases, maintenance and recovery, is on the increase by Brazilians of all ages. Among these herbs Pimpinella anisum L. may be easily found in gardens, supermarkets, pharmacies and in natural products shops. The plant may be used as a form of tea, in cosmetics and in kitchen products. Albeit a natural product, its indiscriminate use may be harmful. Lack of hygiene and contamination by feces, insects, pathogenic fungi and bacteria, among which Salmonella spp., total and fecal coliform bacteria and Staphylococcus aureus may modify the product. When results are compared to rates according to current laws, they show that no sample was contaminated by Salmonella SP. One sample revealed total coliforms above the rates permitted; ten samples were contaminated by fecal coliforms and eight samples were contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, albeit within standards. Pathogenic bacteria associated with extant impurities may be contaminating the plant and may be causing intoxications or contaminations in consumers. The correct tea preparation is highly important for consumption.