Khursheed Ahmad Ansari

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the anti-bacterial properties of tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) and its efficacy in reduction of cariogenic pathogen namely Streptococcus mutans in oral cavity under in vitro conditions.

Methods: The study was carried out to determine and compare the anti-bacterial properties of three extracts obtained from Tulsi on Streptococcus mutans, a cariogenic pathogen. A total of 48 culture plates per plant including 16 plates per extract served as sample size for the study.

Results: From total 30 samples, Tulsi categorized into 10 leaf extract samples, 10 stem extract samples and 10 root extract samples. The result depicted the zones of inhibition (mm) for leaf, stem and root extracts of Tulsi and Positive control against Streptococcus mutans, with mean values equivalent to 22.80 mm, 20.40 mm and 21.20 mm (for Tulsi) and 23 mm, respectively for positive control (Cefotaxime).

Conclusion: Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) is most sacred and valuable medicinal plant which is used for treatment of bacterial, viral, fungal and insecticidal diseases from long time in the whole world. O. sanctum has many beneficial properties which are useful for human health without showing any side-effect.

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