Ali Faisal Madhloom
University of Al-Kafeel / faculty of Dentistry, Najaf – Iraq
Kareem M Al-Ghanim
University of Al-Kafeel / faculty of Dentistry, Najaf – Iraq
Ali M. Hussein
College of medicine, Jabir ibn Hayyan Medical University Najaf- Iraq
Ameer Yousif
University of Al-Kafeel / faculty of Dentistry, Najaf – Iraq
Noor Mahmood Abdulrasool
College of pharmacy, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
Abdulsahib S Jubran
University of Al-Kafeel / faculty of Dentistry, Najaf – Iraq
ABSTRACT
Background: Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition with multiple contributing factors, marked by the progressive destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth. Synthetic antiseptics, including chlorhexidine, demonstrate efficacy; however, they are associated with risks such as resistance and adverse side effects. Moringa oleifera L. is a plant recognized for its extensive pharmacological properties, presenting a potential natural alternative owing to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial constituents. Materials and Methods: Ethanolic extracts were prepared via a maceration method and subsequently analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for the identification of bioactive compounds. P. intermedia was isolated clinically, confirmed through PCR and 16S rRNA sequencing, and evaluated using agar well diffusion, MIC, and MBC assays. Results: GC-MS analysis identified significant phytochemicals, including oleic acid (26.6%), octadecenoic acid (19%), vaccenic acid (14%), and hexadecanoic acid (11%), which are recognized for their antibacterial properties. The extract of Moringa oleifera L. seeds demonstrated a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on P. intermedia. The maximum inhibition zone measured 15±0.6 mm at a concentration of 75 mg/ml, with both (MIC) and (MBC) established at 0.78 mg/ml. Chlorhexidine exhibited superior antibacterial activity; however, Moringa extract displayed notable effectiveness. Conclusion: Moringa oleifera L. seed extract exhibits significant antimicrobial properties against P. intermedia, serving as a promising natural complement to conventional periodontal treatments. Additional in vivo and biofilm investigations are suggested to assess its potential for clinical applications.
Keywords: Antibacterial Herbs, Biofilm, Moringa Oleifera L., Herbal Remedy, Periodontal Microbiology.
