Investigation on antibacterial effect of Eulophia herbacea against Streptococcus mutans

Abstract

Objective:The study was aimed to evaluate in vitro antibacterial effect of various extract of Eulophia herbacea against Streptococcus mutans, and Lactobacillus. Materials and methods: Plant leaves material was collected, washed, dried, coarsely grinded and defatted with petroleum ether and extracted by using ethanol and water. The both extracts were taken and performed the preliminary phytochemical tests, powder character and antimicrobial activity on Staphylococcus mutans and lactobacillus. Pure strains of test organisms were obtained from Hi media (Mumbai). Using Agar well diffusion method, zone of inhibition of various extract of Eulophia herbacea against test organism were performed. All tests were performed in triplicates manner. Results: Phytochemical studies of different extracts of Eulophia herbacea revealed the presence of carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, tannins, saponins, flavonoids and alkaloids. The various extracts of Eulophia herbacea were showed significant antibacterial efficacy against the oral test microbes. Zone of inhibition showed good efficacy against S. mutans and moderate efficacy against Lactobacillus. Overall non toxic and equally efficacious herbal product can be an interesting alternative to synthetic drug. Conclusion: The study reveals that the various extracts of Eulophia herbacea can be used as anticariogenic or antiplaque agent.