Phytochemical Screening and Antibacterial Test of Bay Leaf Extract (Syzigium polyanthum (Wight) Walp.) Against Streptococcus mutans Bacteria

Abstract

Background: Dental caries is a dental health problem that is often found in Indonesian society and is a major concern. Caries is a condition that affects the hard tissue of the teeth, starting with a gradual demineralization process, followed by damage to the organic components of the teeth. Streptococcus mutans is the main agent causing dental caries. Bay leaves are popular among Indonesian people as medicinal plants. Research shows that bay leaves contain secondary metabolites that act as antibacterials. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the results of phytochemical screening and antibacterial tests of bay leaf extract against Streptococcus mutans bacteria. Methods: The study was conducted as a true experimental laboratory with a post-test only control group design. Bay leaves were extracted by maceration using 70% ethanol solvent. The extract obtained was then subjected to a phytochemical screening test. Antibacterial activity tests were carried out using the well diffusion method. This study used 3 concentrations, namely 50%, 75% and 100%. Negative control using sterile distilled water. Key findings: The results of the study showed that based on the results of phytochemical screening, bay leaf extract contains secondary metabolites of wagner alkaloids, dragendroff alkaloids, steroids, saponins, tannins and essential oils. Bay leaf extract has no antibacterial effect on Streptococcus mutans. Conclusions: The conclusion in this study is that the antibacterial test of bay leaf extract showed negative results with no inhibition zone on the growth of Streptococcus mutans.