Assessing the effect of Jatropha curcas latex extract against streptococcus mutans that causes tooth decay

Abstract

This study investigated the antibacterial effect of Jatropha curcas latex extract against Streptococcus mutans, a primary bacteria implicated in tooth decay. The latex of Jatropha curcas, a plant known for its antimicrobial properties was subjected to an in-vitro assessment of its effect on Streptococcus mutans. The latex was extracted from stem cuttings, and 2 drops of ethanol were added to the extract to prevent browning and oxidation. Two strains of the organism, profiled previously were used (ATCC 25175 and ATCC 35668) because of their differences in the biofilm formation. Varying concentrations of the latex were tested on both strains. From data analysed, ATCC 25175 had a mean zone of inhibition of 16.9 mm, while ATCC 35668 had a mean zone of inhibition of 16 mm. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations were 1.17% and 0.585% for the strains ATCC 25175 and ATCC 3568 respectively. The two strains had a similar Minimum Bactericidal Concentration which was 6.25%. The two way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that the Jatropha curcas latex extract had a significant antibacterial effect against Streptococcus mutans strains at Confidence Interval (95%). Therefore the findings suggest that Jatropha curcas latex could be a promising natural remedy for preventing or controlling dental caries, hence further investigations and potential incorporation into oral hygiene products.