Inhibitory power of green okra fruit extract (Abelmoschus esculentus) against Streptococcus viridans
Background: Streptococcus viridans (S.viridans) found in infected root canals with a prevalence of up to 63%. It is also found in 40-60% of cases of infective endocarditis, necessitating adequate cleaning during root canal treatment. NaOCl solution has been widely used as an irrigating agent because it has strong antibacterial properties, combined with EDTA which is able to soften inorganic tissue thereby increasing cleaning effectiveness. However, NaOCl can irritate soft tissue while EDTA has weak antibacterial ability. Green okra fruit contains antibacterial compounds that can inhibit the growth of bacteria. This research was conducted to compare the antibacterial power of green okra fruit extract with NaOCl and EDTA against S. viridans.
Method: Laboratory experimental research was carried out in vitro using a post test only control group design. Disc diffusion method was used with 7 sample groups (the extract variation group (100%, 50%, 25%, and 12.5%), 2.5% NaOCl, 17% EDTA, and distilled water negative control).
Result: The results of the average diameter obtained for each group are as follows green okra fruit extract concentrations of 12.5% (9.53 mm), 25% (12.64 mm), 50% (16.4 mm), and 100% (19.53 mm), 17% EDTA (21 .36 mm), 2.5% NaOCl (24.87 mm), and the distilled water (0 mm). The results of the Kruskal-Wallis statistical test showed (p <0.05) which means there was a difference between groups. Man-Whitney test showed that there were significant differences between groups.
Conclusion: The results of the Kruskal-Wallis statistical test showed (p <0.05) which means there was a difference between groups. Man-Whitney test showed that there were significant differences between groups.
Keywords: disc diffusion method; green okra fruit extract; inhibitory power; streptococcus viridans
