Analysis of the Effectiveness of Red Andong Leaf Extract (Cordyline fruticosa) as an Alternative to 2% Eosin in the Examination of Soil-Transmitted Helminth Eggs

Abstract

Microscopic examination of fecal specimens is an important method for detecting Soil-Transmitted Helminth (STH) eggs. Eosin 2% staining is standardly used to provide high diagnostic contrast; however, natural dye alternatives are increasingly sought to advance eco-friendly and safer laboratory diagnostics. This preliminary laboratory study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of red andong leaf (Cordyline fruticosa) extract as a natural alternative to 2% eosin in direct slide examinations of STH eggs. The extract was prepared by 70% ethanol maceration, acidified with 0.1 N HCl, and concentrated at 45–50°C. Three concentrations (40%, 60%, and 80%) were evaluated without independent experimental replication, alongside distilled water (negative control) and 2% eosin (positive control). Preparations were microscopically assessed at 10× and 40× objective magnifications using a five-parameter operational scoring rubric on a 1–4 scale. Results demonstrated that 40%, 60%, and 80% extract concentrations failed to produce adequate staining contrast, with preparations remaining largely transparent. Although 0.1 N HCl maintained the visible red color of the extract, it did not produce sufficient microscopic contrast for clear visualization of the STH eggs. The mean staining score was the same across all extract concentrations (1.8), compared with 2.0 for distilled water and 4.0 for 2% eosin. As a preliminary descriptive observation, red andong leaf extract did not demonstrate adequate staining performance as a direct substitute for 2% eosin under the tested conditions. Further studies should optimize the extraction solvent, pH, staining time, pigment concentration, and the interaction between plant pigments and biological structures, with appropriate independent experimental replication. This study may contribute to the exploration of plant-derived staining materials in support of SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production); however, the potential health and environmental benefits of the extract require further evaluation.