The antagonistic and synergistic effect of four selected plants used in traditional Indian medicine against the caries causing Streptococcus mutans was studied. The phytochemical composition reveals the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, lignins and saponins invariably in the selected plants. The aqueous extract of clove at different concentration showed effective inhibition of growth followed by eucalyptus, banyan and neem solvent extracts. Further the synergistic effect of clove with other extracts showed best results in clove + eucalyptus combination which was effective in controlling the growth of the isolate.
Streptococcus mutans, Antimicrobial activity, Antagonistic, Synergistic, Dental caries
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