“Comparative evaluation of cytotoxicity of three herbal endodontic irrigants at three intervals of time” – An in vitro study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the cytotoxicity of 25% of neem leaf extract (Azadirachta indica), 20% of guava leaf extracts (Psidium guajava), and 20% of cinnamon extract (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) irrigants at three intervals of time. Methodology: Four groups were formed (n = 15), Group 1 (control group) – normal saline solution, Group 2 – 25% of neem extract, Group 3 – 20% of guava extract, and Group 4 – 20% of cinnamon extract. Each group was further divided into three subgroups based on intervals (n = 5). Subgroup A – at 10 min, Subgroup B – at 20 min, and Subgroup C – at 30 min. One hundred microliters of each irrigant was added to 2 mL of the diluted red blood cells suspension obtained from a human volunteer. Hemoglobin (Hb) estimation was done with an automated hematology analyzer after incubating the test samples at 10, 20, and 30 min intervals. Results: The reduction in the mean Hb values was not statistically significant in the normal saline, guava, and cinnamon groups. However, in the neem extract group, the mean Hb values reduced significantly at P < 0.001. Among the subgroups, Subgroup A (10 min) showed the least cytotoxicity. Conclusion: In the present study, 20% guava extract had the lowest cytotoxicity and cytotoxicity increased with time. Hence, 20% guava extract can be used as an alternative to conventional irrigants as it has been shown to have the least cytotoxicity.