Phytochemical Screening and Antibacterial Effect of Cardamom and Nutmeg Seed Extracts on Microbes Affecting Oral Health in Humans

Abstract

Background: Microorganisms associated with oral health, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus mutans, can cause local and systemic infections in humans. The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant strains necessitates the search for alternative antimicrobial agents from natural sources. Cardamom and nutmeg are medicinal plants known for their therapeutic properties and rich phytochemical composition.

Methods: Seed extracts of cardamom and nutmeg were subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening to identify major secondary metabolites. Antibacterial activity was evaluated against E. coli, S. aureus, and S. mutans using extract concentrations of 100, 75, 50, and 25 mg. The antimicrobial potential of the extracts was determined by measuring the zone of inhibition, and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against the test organisms was assessed.

Results: Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, terpenes, saponins, and phenolic compounds in both cardamom and nutmeg seed extracts. The antimicrobial assays demonstrated inhibitory activity of the extracts against all tested microorganisms, with varying degrees of effectiveness depending on the extract concentration and bacterial species. MIC findings further supported the antibacterial efficacy of both seed extracts.

Conclusion: The phytochemical constituents and antibacterial activity exhibited by cardamom and nutmeg seed extracts indicate their potential as natural antimicrobial agents against oral pathogens. These findings suggest that the extracts may serve as promising alternatives to synthetic drugs associated with adverse side effects. Further investigations are required to isolate the active compounds and validate their therapeutic applications.