Effervescent denture cleansing granules using basil oil and its in vitro antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens

Introduction and Aim: Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is a popular culinary herb and its essential oils. It is used in food products, perfumery, and dental and oral products. Basil essential oils and their principal constituents were found to exhibit antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, yeast, and mold. The present study aims to prepare effervescent denture cleansing granules with basil oil and to evaluate its antibacterial activity against oral pathogens. Materials and Methods: Citric acid, tartaric acid, and sodium bicarbonate composition were taken in a ratio of 1: 2: 3 by weight. Different concentrations of basil oil were mixed with sodium bicarbonate initially. Both the powders were mixed using geometric dilution, further sieved and packed in an airtight glass container. Different concentrations of the prepared basil effervescent denture cleansing solution were tested against Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis The fresh bacterial suspension was dispersed on the surface of nutrient agar plates. Different concentration of basil effervescent denture cleansing solution (50, 100 and 150 μL) was incorporated into the wells, and the plates were incubated at 37°C for 24 h. Zone of inhibition was recorded on each plate. Results: Basil mediated effervescent granules showed a dose-dependent antibacterial activity against the tested microorganism with a maximum effect on Streptococcus mutans and followed by Enterococcus faecalis. Conclusion: The prepared basil oil mediated effervescent denture cleansing granules were found to be effective against S.mutans, E. faecalis, and Candida albicans. Hence it may be used for routine cleansing of the denture to protect the denture users from infections such as denture stomatitis.