Phytochemical Profile of Antibacterial Agents from Red Betel Leaf (Piper crocatum Ruiz and Pav) against Bacteria in Dental Caries

Abstract

Based on data from The Global Burden of Disease Study in 2016, dental and oral health problems, especially dental caries, are a disease experienced by almost half of the world’s population (3.58 billion people). One of the main causes of dental caries is the pathogenesis of Streptococcus mutans. Prevention can be achieved by controlling S. mutans using an antibacterial agent. The most commonly used antibacterial for the treatment of dental caries is chlorhexidine. However, long-term use of chlorhexidine has been reported to cause resistance and some side effects. Therefore, the discovery of a natural antibacterial agent is an urgent need. A natural antibacterial agent that can be used are herbal medicines derived from medicinal plants. Piper crocatum Ruiz and Pav has the potential to be used as a natural antibacterial agent for treating dental and oral health problems. Several studies reported that the leaves of P. crocatum Ruiz and Pav contain secondary metabolites such as essential oils, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds that are active against S. mutans. This review summarizes some information about P. crocatum Ruiz and Pav, various isolation methods, bioactivity, S. mutans bacteria that cause dental caries, biofilm formation mechanism, antibacterial properties, and the antibacterial mechanism of secondary metabolites in P. crocatum Ruiz and Pav.

Traditional Medicine Using Betel Leaf for The Batubara Community

“…This is what makes betel leaf effective for stopping bleeding in bleeding gums and also for someone who has a nosebleed. In addition, red betel leaf has the potential to be used as a natural antibacterial agent for the treatment of dental and oral health issues (Heliawati et al, 2022). The betel leaf colours include yellow, green, and dark green.…”

The Effect of Red Betel Leaf Decoction on the Degree of Vaginal Discharge in Adolescents at the Pondok Pesantren Martausshibyan, Cianjur Regency, Indonesia

“…In the context of vaginal discharge or other health problems involving inflammation, tannins may help reduce the symptoms and discomfort associated with inflammation. 12,13 Saponins are compounds that have a number of properties that are beneficial in a health context.…”

Effect of a Novel Betel Leaf Dentifrice on Commonly Seen Oral Hygiene Parameters—A Randomized Clinical Crossover Study

“…The concept of polyherbal mouthwashes has lately been introduced among the vast repertoire of oral hygiene products. Some of the studies using polyherbal rinses have had positive outcomes for the treatment of dental caries; they have reported inhibitory action [ 33 , 34 ].…”