In Vitro Comparison Of Antimicrobial Activity Of Nigella Sativa Methanolic Extract And Triclosan On Streptococcus Mutans

Abstract

Introduction –

The use of Triclosan, a common antimicrobial additive to dentifrices and many other consumer care products has being increasingly questioned for its safety in the recent years. In spite of a ban imposed on its use by Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it continued to feature as an active ingredient in some leading dentifrices for very long before it was finally withdrawn. During its use it gained widespread popularity due to its broad-spectrum nature and efficacy as a plaque control agent but eventually many global companies replaced Triclosan from their products with various alternative substances. However some of these alternatives too, pose similar risks like development of antibiotic resistance and potential toxicities.

Nigella sativa (N. sativa), which is known for its potent antimicrobial applications may be a reliable alternative in prevention of common oral diseases like dental caries and its role as triclosan alternative deserves further study.

Objectives –

The aim of the present research paper is evaluation and comparison of in vitro antimicrobial activity of N. sativa methanolic extract and Triclosan against S. mutans (MTCC 0497),  

Material and methods- N. sativa extract was prepared using a Soxhlet Apparatus with Methanol as solvent. Antimicrobial efficacy of N. sativa extract and Triclosan was evaluated using MIC, MBC, Disk Diffusion and Time kill assay.

Results -

MIC for Triclosan and N. sativa extract and against S. mutans was 0.4 µg/ml and 12.5 µg/ml, respectively. Triclosan showed no growth at 100µg/ml, however N. sativa extract showed no growth at a much lower value of 25 µg/ml. The maximum zone of inhibition seen at 75µl/ml for Triclosan was 40±2mm and for N. sativa extract it was 28±1mm. Time kill assay for Triclosan at 60 minutes showed no growth while N. sativa extract did the same in half the time with no growth at 30 minutes.

Conclusion- The results of the present study using N. sativa extract showed promising results in comparison to the broad-spectrum antimicrobial, Triclosan, which has been banned due to its numerous adverse effects. N. sativa extract is a safe, effective alternative that may be used to replace this potentially toxic and harmful product from oral care products.