Anti-microbial Activity of S. hortensis Essential Oil on Periodontal Pathogens

Satureja hortensis is a well known aromatic and medicinal plant which is widely distributed in the eastern anatolia region of Turkey. Leaves, flowers and stems of S. hortensis are frequently used in tea or added to foods for aroma and flavour. S. hortensis is also known as a herbal remedy to treat infectious diseases and various ailments such as cramps, muscle pains, nausea, indigestion and diarrhea. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine antimicrobial effects of S. hortensis essential oil against periodontal pathogens Methods: Fresh S. hortensis leaves were dried and ground at room temperature prior to extraction by hydrodistillation. The zone of inhibition (ZI) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the essential oil extract were determined by disc-diffusion and agar dilution techniques for several oral pathogens including, P. gingivalis, P. endodontalis, P. intermedia and C. rectus. Negative and positive controls of sterile distilled water and chlorhexidine (CHX) were utilized. Results: Significant antimicrobial activity was observed from the essential oil against test bacteria. The ZI's of P. intermedia isolates ranged from 13.2 mm to 40 mm (total antibacterial effect) at different concentrations, while inhibition zones for P. gingivalis and C. rectus showed a total bacteriocidal effect (> 40 mm) at all concentrations. Agar dilution assays for the MIC showed a continuous decrease in bacterial count over time. Furthermore, a significant bactericidal effect was observed even at the lowest concentration. Conclusion: S. hortensis essential oil could be used as a natural antibacterial alternative to chemicals and applied against oral pathogens in the prevention and treatment of periodontitis.