Evaluation of Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Effects of Eclipta prostrata-mediated Calcium Oxide Nanoparticle-incorporated Mouth Rinse

The study evaluates the antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties of a mouth rinse formulated with Eclipta prostrata-mediated calcium oxide nanoparticles (CaO NPs). The agar well diffusion method was used to evaluate the antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens, including Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans, Candida albicans, and Lactobacillus. Results demonstrated a dose-dependent antimicrobial effect, with Enterococcus faecalis exhibiting the highest zone of inhibition (13 mm at 100 ug/ml), followed by moderate sensitivity in Streptococcus mutans and lower susceptibility in Candida albicans and Lactobacillus. Cytotoxicity, measured using the Brine shrimp lethality assay, revealed the mouth rinse to be less toxic than commercial alternatives. Statistical analysis, performed through one-way ANOVA and SPSS version 23, confirmed significant differences in microbial inhibition. These findings suggest that Eclipta prostrata-mediated CaO NPs have the potential to be an effective antimicrobial mouth rinse with low toxicity, though further research is needed to confirm clinical safety and efficacy.