COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF ANTIMICROBIAL EFFICACY OF TWO HERBAL PRODUCTS AND CHLORHEXIDINE ON E.FAECALIS: AN IN-VITRO STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: A successful endodontic treatment hinges on thoroughly cleaning and debriding the root canal system to eliminate harmful bacteria. Due to the intricate and sometimes inaccessible areas within the root canal system, mechanical instrumentation alone may not be sufficient to remove the entire bacterial load. So, the aim of the study is in-vitro evaluation of the antimicrobial efficacy of Neem, cinnamon, sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine against E.faecalis when used as intracanal irrigants.

Materials and methods: Agar well diffusion method was used to evaluate the antimicrobial action of different irrigants. Forty five samples were segregated into five groups with 9 samples in each: Group I: 0.2% Chlorhexidine, Group II: Neem extract, Group III: Cinnamon extract, and Group IV: 5.25% Sodium hypochlorite, Group V: Distilled water. The inhibition zones against E. faecalis were recorded and statistically assessed using one‑way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test (p < 0.05).

 Results: Significant antimicrobial efficacy against E.faecalis was observed with cinnamon extract, followed by 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, neem extract, 0.2% chlorhexidine and distilled water.

 Conclusion: Cinnamon extract exhibited the highest antimicrobial efficacy against Enterococcus faecalis, followed by 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, Neem extract, and 0.2% chlorhexidine, while distilled water showed no activity.