<![CDATA[Bacterial infections remain a health problem, especially in tropical countries such as Indonesia. The increasing occurrence of antibiotic resistance has resulted in the need for the development of alternative antibacterial agents based on natural resources. Kepok banana leaves (Musa paradisiaca Linn.) contain secondary metabolites that may possess antibacterial activity. This study aimed to determine the secondary-metabolite groups and antibacterial activity of a 70% ethanolic extract of kepok banana leaves (Musa paradisiaca Linn.) against Staphylococcus aureus. The study included plant identification, phytochemical screening, heavy metal analysis for Pb and Cd, extraction by maceration using 70% ethanol, and antibacterial activity testing using the disk diffusion method. The antibacterial test was performed using extract concentrations of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%, with three replications for each treatment. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, and tannins in the ethanolic extract of kepok banana leaves. Pb and Cd were not detected in the extract under the conditions of the analysis. The extract inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus at all tested concentrations, with inhibition zones categorized as strong, and the inhibition zone increased with increasing extract concentration. These findings indicate that the 70% ethanolic extract of kepok banana leaves has potential as a source of natural antibacterial compounds against Staphylococcus aureus. The observed activity may be associated with the secondary metabolites detected in the extract; however, their individual contributions and possible interactions were not directly investigated.]]>
