Notes on Azadirachta indica and Salvadora persica for Oral Health

PERCSICA IN PLAQUE CONTROL

Introduction

• Prevalence of Oral Diseases: Dental caries and gum diseases (gingivitis, periodontitis) are major global health issues exacerbated by antibiotic resistance.

• Role of Natural Plants: Utilization of natural remedies like Azadirachta indica (neem) and Salvadora persica (Miswak) has been historically significant in promoting oral health.

• Pathogen Inhibition: Bioactive compounds in neem effectively inhibit plaque formation and oral pathogens such as S. mutans and P. gingivalis.

Methodology

Sample Collection

• Neem (Azadirachta indica) was sourced from Florida due to seasonal growth factors.

• Miswak (Salvadora persica) was used as it is not typically grown in the U.S.

Plant Extraction

• Both plants were dried, cleaned, and crushed using a mortar and pestle.

• Extracts were prepared using solvents: methanol, ethanol, and ethyl acetate.

• Samples evaporated to dryness in a Petri dish under a fume hood and then mixed with 10% DMSO.

Antimicrobial Testing

• Focused on oral pathogens, particularly S. mutans and P. gingivalis.

• Employed the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method for testing effectiveness.

• Phytochemical analysis was not reached but planned for future experiments.

• TLC-Direct Bioautography and synergistic antimicrobial assays were also noted for future work.

Conclusion

Health Benefits of Azadirachta indica and Salvadora persica

• Notable for numerous health benefits, especially in oral care.

• Neem Components:

  • Azadirachtin and nimbin: Bioactive compounds contributing to antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating activities.

  • Highly effective in preventing/treating oral diseases: gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth decay, and improving overall oral hygiene.

Anti-Allergic Effects

• Neem aids in controlling immune responses, potentially protecting against allergies while improving oral health through anti-inflammatory properties.

• Functioning likely due to regulation of cytokine release, significant to immunological function.

Enhanced Effects

• Complementary Function: Neem’s antibacterial properties effectively reduce bacterial load and inflammation, while Miswak provides mechanical cleansing and additional antibacterial action through its fibers.

• Combined use can enhance plaque control and gum health, reducing risk of oral infections.

Significance of the Study

• Both Azadirachta indica and Salvadora persica are valuable in dental treatments.

• Neem’s antibacterial qualities combined with Miswak’s natural bacteria-fighting capabilities offer an integrated approach to reducing dental issues like cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath.

References

1. Haque, M. M., & Alsareii, S. A. (2015). A review of the therapeutic effects of using Miswak (Salvadora Persica) on Oral Health. Saudi Medical Journal.

2. Alzohairy, M. A. (2016). Therapeutics role of Azadirachta Indica (NEEM). Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine.

3. Nordin, A. et al. (2020). Miswak and Oral Health: Evidence-based review. Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences.

4. Wylie, M. R., & Merrell D. S. (2022). The Antimicrobial Potential of the Neem Tree Azadirachta indica. Frontiers in Pharmacology.

5. Azizan NF, et al. (2023). Effectiveness of Salvadora persica toothbrush in plaque and gingivitis control. BMC Complement Med Ther.

6. Islas, J. F., et al. (2020). An overview of Neem (Azadirachta indica). Journal of Functional Foods.