Antibacterial Effects of Chewing Stick Extracts on Streptococcus Mutans

Abstract

Background: Streptococcus mutans is considered as a major microorganism causing tooth decay, affecting individuals globally. Different types of chewing sticks possess anti cariogenic properties, traditionally been consumed in maintaining dental hygiene. Usage of these sticks can be economical in developing and rural regions where dental caries is a major health concern. 
 Objective: The current study aims to evaluate antibacterial action of different type of chewing sticks extract on Streptococcus mutans. 
 Methods: Aqueous extracts of Azadiracta indica (Neem), Melia azedarach (Bakain), Mangifera indica (Mango), Salvadora persica (Peelu), Terminalia chebula (Harhar), Dalbeigia sissoo (Tali) and Juglans regia (Akhrot) plants which have justified folk use were prepared in Punjab University College of Pharmacy, Punjab University. Next, in vitro antimicrobial activity was studied by broth dilution method in Post Graduate Medical Institute, Lahore. Moreover, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) as well as the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were quantitatively evaluated on basis of turbidity index.
 Results: There is a significant effect of aqueous extracts of plants on the bacterial inhibition. MIC and MBC values were in the range of 6.125 to 100 mg/mL against S. mutans. The notable effect occurred with aqueous extracts of Azadiracta indica showing MIC and MBC values as 6.25mg/mL and 12.5 mg/mL, respectively. Alternatively, Salvadora persica demonstrated 8.33mg/mL and 16.66 mg/mL values of these parameters 
 Conclusions: Each plant studied exhibited moderate to high antibacterial activity against tested bacterial strain. However, Azadirachta indica and Salvadora persica aqueous extracts showed promising effect against Streptococcus mutans