Evaluation of anti-microbial efficacy of plant derived extract against plaque associated bacteria

Context: Dental plaque are soft deposits that adhere to the tooth surface and acts as a harbor for numerous pathogenic microorganisms. Prevention of plaque accumulation serves to eliminate the microbial colonization. The commercially available anti-plaque agents are associated with certain side effects especially with prolonged use. Hence, the utility of natural plant derived extracts may possess beneficial effects against the pathogenic bacteria.
Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the anti-microbial efficacy of herbal extracts and chlorhexidine against plaque associated aerobic micro-organisms.
Materials and Method: Supragingival plaque samples were collected from healthy individuals (n=30) who are free from tobacco/ alcohol habits, any oral microbial diseases and systemic illnesses. Anti-microbial efficacy of curcumin, ginger-garlic paste, clove oil and cinnamon oil were evaluated against plaque associated aerobic bacteria and compared against chlorhexidine by measuring the zone of inhibitionin culture media. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the significance of zone of inhibition amongst the various agents.
Results: Cinnamon oil was found to be more effective than the other herbal extracts as well as chlorhexidine against plaque associated aerobic bacteria.
Conclusion: Cinnamon oil can thus be used as an effective anti-plaque agent either individually or in combination with chlorhexidine. Assessment of the anti-microbial efficacy of naturally available plant extracts against the oral pathogenic microorganisms may enable their clinical utility in preventing microbial colonization thereby preventing common oral diseases.