In Vitro Comparative Study of Antimicrobial Activity of Chia Seeds (Salvia hispanica) with Fennel Seeds (Foeniculum vulgare) and 0.2% Chlorhexidine Against Streptococcus mutans.

BACKGROUND: Caries is a dental disease caused by pathogenic bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, which produces the enzyme glucosyltransferase (GTF), essential for the formation of glucan. Chia (Salvia hispanica) and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) seeds are well-known seeds due to their antibacterial activity, but there is limited research linking the antibacterial activity of these seeds to their effectiveness against Streptococcus mutans. AIM: In this investigation, the aim is to assess the comparative antimicrobial potency of S. hispanica (chia) and F. vulgare (fennel) seed extracts versus 0.2% chlorhexidine in inhibiting S. mutans. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Aqueous extracts of chia seeds and fennel seeds were prepared through cold maceration, and the resulting crude residue was collected. A 0.2% chlorhexidine solution was used as the negative control. S. mutans was cultured on Brain Heart Infusion (BHI) agar, and wells were created in the agar plates into which 100 µL of each extract was introduced. Antimicrobial activity was assessed by measuring the zone of inhibition and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for group I: chia seeds (100%), group II: fennel seeds (100%), group III: chia seeds (50%), group IV: fennel seeds (50%), group V: chia seeds (25%), group VI: fennel seeds (25%), and group VII: chlorhexidine (0.2%). Statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by pairwise comparisons utilizing the Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS: Chia seed and fennel seed extracts both exhibited antimicrobial properties; however, fennel seed extract showed significantly higher activity against S. mutans compared to chia seed extract (p = 0.050), as determined by statistical analysis. CONCLUSION: This study's observations point to the viability of herbal extracts as a practical alternative to conventional antimicrobial products. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The use of synthetic antimicrobial agents has led to side effects and the development of antimicrobial resistance due to improper usage. In contrast, herbal extracts may offer safer and more effective alternatives, provided they are backed by scientifically validated evidence.