Comparative Evaluation of Antifungal Activity of Moringa Oleifera Leaf and Stem Bark Powder Incorporated into Soft Liner-An Invitro Study

Background and Objectives: Denture stomatitis caused by Candida albicans is a common clinical concern associated with soft denture liners. Conventional antifungal agents such as fluconazole are effective but may lead to resistance or side effects with prolonged use. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the antifungal efficacy of Moringa oleifera leaf powder, stem bark powder, and fluconazole when incorporated into a soft liner material.  Materials and Method: A total of 40 samples (10 mm x10mm x 2 mm) were fabricated using a soft liner material. These were divided into four groups (n=10 each) as follows: Group A (control – soft liner without additives), Groups B (Moringa leaf powder at 5%w/w), Groups C (Moringa stem bark powder 5% w/w), and Groups D (fluconazole 2% w/w). The antifungal activity of each group was tested using the colony forming unit method against Candida albicans. The number of colony forming unit were measured and statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by post hoc tests.  Results: All experimental groups exhibited varying degrees of antifungal activity compared to the control group. The group with 5% Moringa leaf powder showed the highest antifungal activity compared with 5% w/w Moringa stem bark among the herbal groups. Fluconazole at 2% exhibited the maximum antifungal effect overall. Moringa stem bark groups demonstrated moderate antifungal activity against Candida albicans.