EVALUATION OF ANTI CARIES ACTIVITY OF Rubia cordifolia EXTRACT USED AS MOUTH WASH- AN in vivo PILOT STUDY

Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Actinomyces viscosus have been identified as cariogenic organisms. In view of instances of development of resistance to currently used chemicals or antibiotics and side effects, search for alternatives has led to herbal compounds being used as antimicrobials. Rubia cordifolia also known as Indian madder is a commonly used herb in Ayurveda for the treatment of various medical conditions for its antioxidant, anti inflammatory and antimicrobial activity. The aim of this study is to evaluate the anti caries activity of Rubia cordifolia extract by assessing the colony forming units of Streptococcus mutans before and after the use of this extract.

Rubia cordifolia root powder was taken and methanol extract was prepared using Soxhlet apparatus. A total of 10 patients who satisfied the selection criteria of high caries risk group were included in the study and were asked to use the extract for 1 week. The patients were followed up after a week and their salivary levels of S. mutans were evaluated. Significant reduction in the colony forming units of S. mutans was evident after a week of use of the mouth wash. This study proved Rubia cordifolia extract as an effective anticaries mouthwash.