The effectiveness of siwak extract as an antibacterial agent against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, and Escherichia coli

Abstract

Background: The growth of bacteria on external wounds can lead to infections, worsening the condition of the wound due to bacterial decay. This is also caused by certain antiseptic substances that possess only minimal antibacterial properties and are less effective in inhibiting bacterial growth. Methods: This study employed sterilization tests and resistance or inhibition tests against bacterial growth, such as S. aureus and E. coli.  Findings: Siwak contains natural minerals that can inhibit bacterial growth, kill bacteria, remove plaque, prevent cavities, and maintain gum health. Conclusion: The study on the effectiveness of siwak stem extract as an antimicrobial agent revealed that the extract of siwak stems (Salvadora persica Linn) can effectively inhibit and kill certain microbes. This is due to the antimicrobial substances found in siwak stem extract, which can prevent the growth of specific microbes. Novelty/Originality of this article: It is suggested that herbal ingredients can be used to inhibit biofilm formation in certain bacterial species such as S. aureus and E. coli, as the biological activity and antibacterial effects of tannins and flavonoids have been proven. The novelty of this research lies in the testing of the antibacterial effects of siwak as a herbal ingredient to inhibit the formation of bacterial biofilms in species that commonly cause infections in external wounds.