Herbal extracts in an experimental mouthwash: pharmacognostics analysis and antibacterial activity

Abstract

In this study, herbs and hidroalcoholic extracts of Nasturtium officinale, Rosmarinus officinalis, Tabebuia impetiginosa, Plantago major and Achillea millefollium, were investigated for pharmacognostics analysis (flavonoids, alkaloids, tanins, saponins and antraquinones) and antibacterial activity (against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis e Pseudomonas aeruginosa). In vitro antibacterial studies were carried by the disc diffusion method, hole plate and tamplate. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were determinated by broth dilution method. The extracts were incorporated in mouthwash for periodontal diseases treatment. The pharmacognostics studies showed that herbs and extracts have substances groups described in literature. The antibacterial studies showed that extracts and mouthwash have some activity against all considered bacteria. S. aureus and B. subtilis showed, apparently, to be species more susceptible. Investigation of the MIC showed 312,5 µL/mL-1250 µL/mL for extracts and 625 µL/mL-2500 µL/mL for mouthwash. The studies served as initial quality control of the obtained cosmetic, enhancing anti-inflammatory (flavonoids) and/or antibacterial activities (tanins). However, new studies are necessary to confirm the cosmetic efficacy for treatment periodontal diseases.