Effectiveness of Wuluh Starfruit Leaf (Averrhoa bilimbi Linn) Extract on The Growth Streptococcus mutans In Vitro

Abstract

Background: Starfruit (Averrhoa bilimbi Linn) contains vitamin C, flavonoids, tannins, and triterpenoids. This active compound is reported to prevent the growth of bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans. Objective: This study aims to determine the effectiveness of starfruit leaf extract (Averrhoa bilimbi Linn) in inhibiting Streptococcus mutans. Method: This type of research is true experimental with a post-test-only control design, where this research uses the Kirby-Baur diffusion method with samples of Streptococcus mutans bacteria and uses wuluh leaf extract with concentrations of 50%, 25%, 12.5%, 6 .25%, 3.125%. And DMSO solution as a negative control. Results: The formation of a clear zone shows the ability of starfruit leaf extract to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, with an average inhibitory diameter of 12.05 ± 0.7188, 9.50 ± 0.3464.8, 65 ± 0.2380, 7.80 ± 0.4546, 6.78 ± 0.8016. Conclusion: Based on the research results, it can be concluded that Averrhoa bilimbi Linn can inhibit Streptococcus mutans.