The antimicrobial activity of azardirachta indica, glycyrrhiza glabra, cinnamum zeylanicum, syzygium aromaticum, accacia nilotica on streptococcus mutans and enterococcus faecalis - An in vitro study

Abstract

Aim: The present study aimed to identify effective antimicrobial herbal extracts for preventing dental caries and root canal failures. Materials and Methods: In this study antibacterial activity of ethanol extracts of Neem, Liquorice, Cinnamon, Clove and babool was tested against Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis at concentrations of 10 % and 50% at varying volumes of 10 μl , 20 μl , 30 μl , 50 μl and 75 μl for 24 hours. The extracts were inoculated on brain heart infusion agar plates containing individual species of microorganisms and incubated at 37oC for 24 hours. After 24 hours variable antimicrobial effects of the herbs against Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis was noted. Statistical analysis was performed with one way analysis of variance. Results: Babool (Accacia nilotica ) extract at 50% concentration and at volumes of 75μl showed the maximum zone of inhibition against Streptococcus Mutans and Enterococcus faecalis. Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra) extract also inhibited the growth of microorganisms but to a lesser degree than Babool extract. Conclusion: Babool and Liquorice extracts are effective in inhibiting the growth of cariogenic pathogens like streptococcus mutans and Babool and Clove extracts are effective antimicrobial agents against Enterococcus faecalis and can be used to reduce root canal microflora and root canal failures. Clinical significance: The data suggest that the herbal can provide oral health benefits by inhibiting the growth of cariogenic and root canal pathogens. In vivo clinical testing is essential to confirm in vitro results.