Effect of Herbal Extracts on Oral Microorganisms

Abstract

The mouth has a diverse microbial ecosystem and is yet vulnerable to infectious diseases. Dental plaque is formed when bacteria accumulate on teeth, and if left untreated, it can develop to gingivitis. Gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which causes irreparable damage to the gums and underlying support tissues if left untreated. Hundreds of bacterial species are involved in dental caries such as streptococci species, lactobacillus species. Mouthwashes are meant to reduce oral bacteria, remove any food debris and provide a pleasant and refreshing taste in the mouth. Antiseptic chemicals including alcohol, menthol, and eucalyptol are used in mouthwash to destroy microorganisms. Plaque and gingivitis can be avoided with the use of mouthwash. Each mouthwash mixture has somewhat different chemicals, and each product serves a particular purpose. Herbal mouthwashes are considered to be an effective alternative for the commercial products. Herbal mouthwashes are in high demand, because they have less or no side effects and act on oral pathogens effectively. Herbs, in contrast to artificial products, are widely regarded as highly effective. Medicinal herbs have long been used to treat ailments because of their antibacterial and antifungal properties against human pathogens. Herbal mouth washes have the ability to deliver the therapeutic ingredients to access against the organism present on the surface of the mouth. Dental caries and periodontal diseases are among the most frequent infectious diseases experienced by many people at various phases of their lives, with a significant prevalence among children and adolescents who do not practice basic oral hygiene. Herbal mouthwash was prepared from the aqueous extracts of four different leaves namely<i> Ocimum tenuiflorum</i>, <i>Plectranthus amboinicus</i>, <i>Mentha</i> and <i>Foeniculum vulgare</i>. The antimicrobial efficacy was tested against the oral pathogens<i> Staphylococcus sp</i>., <i>Streptococcus sp.</i>, and <i>Bacillus sp.</i> by using agar well diffusion method. The herbal mouthwash was found to be effective against the oral pathogens.