Publication:

Comparison of antibacterial efficacy of a non-herbal toothpaste with the polyherbal preparation on the growth of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans: an in vitro study

Background Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is an important oral pathogen implicated in periodontal disease and is commonly detected in pediatric populations. Chemical dentifrices are effective against oral bacteria but may cause adverse effects, whereas herbal preparations may offer safer alternatives.

Methods An in vitro experimental study was conducted to compare the antibacterial efficacy of a non-herbal toothpaste (Kidodent™ Indoco Pharmaceuticals Ltd., India) and a polyherbal preparation containing Neem (Azadirachta indica), Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), and Ginger (Zingiber officinale). Antibacterial activity was evaluated using agar well diffusion assay at concentrations of 20, 50, and 100 mg/ml, and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by broth microdilution. All tests were performed in triplicate. Statistical analysis was carried out using one-way ANOVA, independent Student’s t-test, and Mann–Whitney U test as appropriate.

Results The non-herbal toothpaste demonstrated significantly greater zones of inhibition compared to the polyherbal preparation (p<0.001). The polyherbal formulation showed a concentration-dependent antibacterial effect, with the highest mean zone of inhibition observed at 100 mg/ml. The MIC value of the polyherbal preparation was 31.25 µg/mL, whereas the non-herbal toothpaste exhibited a lower MIC, indicating higher antibacterial potency.

Conclusions The non-herbal toothpaste showed superior antibacterial efficacy against A. actinomycetemcomitans; however, the polyherbal preparation demonstrated significant, concentration-dependent antimicrobial activity. Polyherbal formulations may serve as safer adjuncts in pediatric oral care, though further clinical studies are warranted.