Oracure: Efficacy of Honey and Split Gill Mushroom (Schizophyllum Commune) Extract in Reducing Staphylococcus Aureus Growth

Oral health has long been recognized as an essential element of general well-being, but millions of individuals still suffer from oral health annually. These conditions can result from poor hygiene and cause dental-related problems. The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, such as S. aureus, calls for alternative antimicrobial solutions. Honey and split gill mushroom has been traditionally used not only as a food, but also with therapeutic purposes, especially for the topical treatment of wounds. This study investigated the antibacterial potential of honey and split gill mushroom extracts against S. aureus growth using an experimental laboratory design. Extracts were extracted and analyzed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method against S. aureus strains, with statistical methods used to identify significant differences. Results showed that 100% honey extract exhibited a mean inhibition zone of 37.67 mm, classifying it as susceptible. In contrast, 100% split gill mushroom extract and the combination of honey and mushroom extract showed no inhibition, classifying them as resistant. The split gill mushroom showed no antibacterial activity in this study, and combining it with honey did not enhance effectiveness. These findings suggest that honey is a promising natural antimicrobial agent, while the mushroom extract was ineffective.