Year : 2023

Volume : Volume 14

Issue : Issue 3

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Anjali Nayak,
dranjalinayak@yahoo.com

Abstract

 Disinfection and shaping of the canal with a combination of chemical agents and endodontic instruments play important 
roles in the success of endodontic therapy. Root canal irrigants aid in achieving disinfection in canal systems inaccessible to biomechanical 
preparation. A wide variety of synthetic irrigants are available today but some may be ineffective, and there may be safety concerns and 
side effects. Herbal alternatives may be advantageous. Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to evaluate the antibacterial 
properties of herbal extracts, namely, Aloe vera and triphala as irrigants during endodontic treatment in comparison with the conventional 
irrigating solutions. Materials and Methods: Agar well diffusion assay and MIC methods were used to determine the efficacy of the 
experimental irrigant in removing Enterococcus faecalis. The difference between groups was statistically analyzed. Results: About 2% 
chlorhexidine (CHX) showed the highest zone of inhibition against E. faecalis followed by triphala. There was no significant difference 
between triphala and A. vera, but triphala showed more inhibition effect against E. faecalis due to chelating properties. CHX has significant 
antimicrobial efficacy against E. faecalis. Considerable reduction in growth of E. faecalis was seen in the herbal extract groups and 
considering their non-toxic nature and other physiological benefits, further studies are warranted. Conclusion: In this study, 2% CHX 
showed maximum antibacterial activity against E. faecalis. Triphala and A. vera did show antibacterial activity against the organism but 
at significantly reduced levels.