<![CDATA[Examination of helminth eggs in fecal samples remains the primary method for diagnosing helminth infections. A 2% eosin stain is commonly applied to improve contrast in microscopic preparations; however, synthetic dyes have limitations due to their chemical properties and low environmental friendliness. The senduduk plant (Melastoma malabathricum L.) contains natural pigments such as anthocyanins and flavonoids, which may serve as potential natural staining agents. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of senduduk leaf and flower extracts as alternative stains to replace 2% eosin in identifying Trichuris trichiura eggs. This research used a laboratory experimental design consisting of one control group and five treatment groups. The treatments included flower extract with a flower-to-distilled water ratio of (1:5), pure flower extract (100%), flower extract with 70% alcohol (1:5), leaf extract with distilled water (5:1), and leaf extract with 70% alcohol (5:1). The results showed that all extract preparations were able to stain the microscopic slides, enabling clear observation of T. trichiura egg morphology. Extracts using alcohol as a solvent produced stronger and clearer contrast compared to those prepared with distilled water. In conclusion, senduduk leaf and flower extracts demonstrate potential as environmentally friendly natural alternative stains for parasitological microscopic examinations.]]>
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