Antibacterial Activity of Ethanol Extract of Nigella Sativa L. Seed Against Streptococcus mutans

Abstract

Dental caries or cavities are most commonly found in the oral cavity. Dental caries is caused by plaque-forming bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans. Getting dental care with a professional dental expert every two weeks or three-monthly intervals can prevent caries but it is expensive and difficult for most individuals. So an alternative is sought, especially in herbal plants. Black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) from the Ranunculanceae family has been used as a medicinal plant for various diseases for more than 2000 years. This study aims to determine the antibacterial effect of Nigella sativa L. seed ethanol extract on Streptococcus mutans and to find out at what concentrations Nigella sativa L. seed ethanol extract provides antibacterial activity. This research was carried out by extracting Nigella sativa L. seed using ethanol solvent. Activity tests are carried out using paper disc diffusion method. The results of inhibition zones obtained from concentrations of 400, 600, and 800 mg/mL of black cumin extract were 13.3, 16.4 and 20.3 mm, respectively. Furthermore, the minimum inhibitory concentration test (MIC) for Streptococcus mutans bacteria was obtained at a concentration of 380 mg/mL.