Abstract Search

ISEF | Projects Database | Finalist Abstract

Back to Search Results | Print PDF

Essential Oils Inhibit E. coli

Booth Id:
CELL014

Category:
Cellular and Molecular Biology

Year:
2019

Finalist Names:
Wright, Jelena (School: Mission Early College High School)

Abstract:
This experiment was designed not only from a continuation of a previous year, but as well as an improvement. Essential oils were present to prove that they have special and unique properties that can prevent harmful bacterial cultures. Multiple data tables and graphs were used to organize and collect data to conclude observations and results. They were not only used to represent the amount of bacteria, but to also account for the averages of bacteria over a two-day period. By using petri dishes with agar solution, samples of E. coli and oil were placed onto 8 of 10 petri dishes. It was found that for each dish with E.coli sample and oil, there were little to no bacteria found during the observation of results, hence essential oils do contain properties of preventing and interfering the growth of bacteria. Two control variables were established during the experiment that contained only samples of E. coli: the first control contained 419 bacterial cultures, and the second control contained 457 bacterial cultures. The hypothesis is supported due from study and research of essential oils contain critical components that prevent bacteria. This applies to modern world applications in medical advances that can strengthen the human body against intestinal sickness caused by E. coli infections.