Inhibition of Citronella Essential Oil (Cymbopogon Nardus) Bengkulu on Bacterial Growth after Endodontic Treatment

Background: Root canal treatment aims to address pulpal infection and prevent reinfection, which is often caused by bacteria such as Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus. Citronella essential oil (Cymbopogon nardus) from Bengkulu, containing antibacterial compounds, has potential to inhibit the growth of these bacteria. Objective: This study evaluated the effectiveness of citronella essential oil against E. faecalis and S. aureus. Materials and Methods: The method used was the disc diffusion technique with 20 samples each of E. faecalis and S. aureus in BHI media. Citronella essential oil was tested at concentrations of 50%, 75%, and 100%, with 2% CHX as the positive control. The inhibition zones were measured after 24 hours. Results: The highest inhibition for E. faecalis was found at 100% concentration (2.56 mm), while for S. aureus, it was at 50% concentration (1.67 mm). Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed at all concentrations of citronella essential oil for both bacteria. Conclusion: Citronella essential oil from Bengkulu exhibited weak antibacterial activity against E. faecalis and S. aureus. Its potential as an alternative for root canal treatment requires further development.