Abstract
Salvadora persica , commonly known as the toothbrush tree (Miswak) , is an evergreen shrub with fibrous branches . Different parts of the tree stems, roots, twigs have been used as natural antimicrobial sources for the maintenance of oral hygiene. It has been found that S. persica has analgesic, antiplaque, anticariogenic and antifungal properties. The aim of this study was to observe the antibacterial action of the aqueous and alcoholic extracts of the stems of S. persica against seven types of oral bacteria. The stems of S. persica were obtained from a local market in Duhok governorate and the pathogens were collected from the laboratory of Azadi hospital and cultured on blood, nutrient and MacConkey agars. The extracts were prepared using Rotary Vacuum Evaporator, followed by the preparation of the stock solutions. Overall both the aqueous and alcoholic extracts exhibited antibacterial activity against all the types of the bacteria. However, the aqueous extract showed stronger antibacterial action against all strains in particular gram positive bacteria. Methanol and isopropanol were effective against gram negative bacteria. S. persica has proved its efficacy as a natural antimicrobial plant for cleansing the oral cavity and can be used as alternative to other expensive medicinal products.
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