Anti cariogenic effect of terminalia chebula

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Microbiology
• Dentistry

Background:

• Terminalia chebula is a traditional medicine with diverse therapeutic activities.
• This study investigates its antimicrobial potential against caries-causing oral pathogens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the antimicrobial properties of Terminalia chebula extract.
• To assess its effect on oral pH and microbial load in high-caries-risk patients.

Main Methods:

• Antimicrobial activity assessed using the Kirby-Bauer method.
• Total phenol and flavonoid content analyzed.
• High-caries-risk patients rinsed with Terminalia chebula extract; salivary pH and microbial counts were measured pre- and post-rinse.

Main Results:

• Extract contained significant levels of total phenols (21.33 ±1.633) and flavonoids (23.17 ± 2.317).
• Salivary pH increased post-rinse, indicating a shift towards a less acidic oral environment.
• Significant reduction in oral microbial load observed after rinsing with the extract.

Conclusions:

• Terminalia chebula exhibits potent antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens.
• It effectively reduces microbial load and improves salivary pH, suggesting its potential as an alternative agent for managing dental caries.