Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity of Aqueous Extract of “Ocimum Sanctum-Queen of Herb” on Dental Caries Microorganisms: An In Vitro Study

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of three different concentrations of Ocimum sanctum aqueous extract against various caries causing microorganisms, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus sanguis, and Lactobacillus acidophilus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Aqueous extract of Ocimum sanctum was prepared by the cold extraction method. The extract was diluted with milli Q water, to obtain 3 different concentrations [2%, 3%, and 4%] of the extract. Glycerol 6%v/v and tween-80, 0.1%v/v were also added to get a stable suspension. About 0.2% chlorhexidine was used as a positive control and milli Q water was used as a negative control. The extract, along with the controls, was then subjected to microbiological investigation to determine which concentration among the three different concentrations of extract gave a wider inhibition zone against Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus sanguis, and Lactobacillus acidophilus. The zones of inhibition were measured in millimeters. RESULTS: Ocimum sanctum aqueous extract demonstrated maximum antimicrobial activity against microorganisms responsible for dental caries at the 4% concentration level although 3% and 2% were also effective. Maximum activity was seen against S. mutans and S. sanguis with 4% extract. CONCLUSION: Ocimum sanctum aqueous extract was effective against all caries causing the microorganisms. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Dental caries is still a major oral disease in children which affects their quality of life. It is important to come up with an alternative oral hygiene aid which is easily available and with lesser side effects and maximum benefits by acting against caries causing microbes. Thus aqueous extract of commonly available tulsi is studied to know its effect on caries causing microorganisms. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Pai KR, Pallavi LK, Bhat SS, et al. Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity of Aqueous Extract of “Ocimum Sanctum-Queen of Herb” on Dental Caries Microorganisms: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(S-2):S176-S179.