In vitro evaluation of antimicrobial activity of Distemonanthus benthamianus chewing stick extract mouthwash

Abstract

Background and Aims: Mouthwashes are oral home care product used to treat mouth infections and to maintain satisfactory oral hygiene. The use of effective mouthwash is a reasonable means to prevent dental caries and oro-dental infections. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial potential of Distemonanthus benthamianus chewing stick extract formulated as a mouthwash against some microorganisms associated with oro-dental infections in comparison with two commercial brand mouthwashes. Methods: The chewing stick was extracted with methanol and used to formulate mouthwash. Phytochemical screening was done to test for the presence of secondary metabolites. Antimicrobial activity of the crude extract and the formulated mouthwash on Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans was evaluated. The physical characteristics, pH and the stability of the mouthwashes were determined. Results: The extract contains alkaloids, saponins flavonoids, steroids and tannins. The crude extract and the formulated mouthwashes showed significant difference in activity against the test microorganisms in the following order Candida albicans > Staphylococcus aureus > Streptococcus mutans. At high concentrations of the extract (0.3%W/V and 0.5%W/V) in formulations, antibacterial activities were significantly higher against Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus when compared with the commercial brands. The pH of the mouthwashes ranged from 5.2 - 7.4. The stability of formulation F5 was maintained for 12 weeks. Conclusion: The use of Distemonanthus benthamianus chewing stick extract mouthwash is safer, cheaper, and more effective in preventing dental caries and oro-dental infections compared to the commercial brand mouthwashes.