Comparative evaluation of anti-bacterial effect of Caesalpinia sappan aqueous extract and 0.12% Chlorhexidine against Streptococcus mutans – An in vitro study

Aim and objectives: To evaluate and compare the antimicrobial activity of various concentration of C.sappan wood aqueous extract (100mg/ml, 200mg/ml, 300mg/ml, 400mg/ml, 500mg/ml and 600mg/ml) and 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthwash using agar well diffusion method against St.mutans. Materials and Methods: A comparative experimental invitro study was conducted to evaluate and compare antimicrobial activity of various concentration of C.Sappan aqueous extract and 0.12% Chlorhexidine. The study enclosed extract of 100mg/ml, 200mg/ml, 300mg/ml, 400mg/ml, 500mg/ml, 600mg/ml and 0.12% Chlorhexidine as control. The antimicrobial activity was assessed by agar well diffusion method, were 50µl of each concentration was poured in the prepared agar well and assessed for zone of inhibition. Results: The antimicrobial potential of test compounds was estimated by measuring the zone of inhibition and all the procedure are done in triplicates and values are assessed using One way ANOVA and Post Hoc analysis. All the concentration used showed zone of inhibition against St.mutans. At the concentration, 600mg/ml of aqueous C.sappan extract have a larger zone of inhibition (22.41±.32). In agar well diffusion method, at the minimal concentration of 600mg/ml and C.Sappan aqueous extract was comparatively better than positive control group (0.12%cholorhexidine). Conclusion: C.Sappan wood aqueous extract could be preferred for routine oral hygiene practice where it can provide maximal antimicrobial effect without side effects of routine aid.