Potential of Siddha and Ayurvedic herbs in oral healthcare: A comparative study of Terminalia Chebula and Withania Somnifera

The increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance and oral infections has spurred interest in plant-based alternatives with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Traditional Indian medicinal systems, such as Siddha and Ayurveda, have long utilized Terminalia chebula, (T.chebula) (Kadukkai) and Withania somnifera (W.somnifera) (Ashwagandha) for their therapeutic benefits. Objectives To assess and compare the antimicrobial activity of ethanolic extracts of Terminalia chebula (T. chebula) and Withania somnifera (W. somnifera) against Streptococcus mutans(S.mutans) and Candida albicans (C.albicans), and to evaluate their antioxidant capacity using the DPPH assay. Methods: Ethanolic extracts of T. chebula and W. somnifera were prepared and tested for antimicrobial activity using the agar well diffusion method. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using serial dilution. Antioxidant activity was assessed via DPPH free radical-scavenging assay at various concentrations. Results: T.chebula showed superior antimicrobial activity compared to W. somnifera, with larger zones of inhibition and lower MIC values against both S. mutans and C. albicans. Both extracts demonstrated dose-dependent antioxidant activity, with T. chebula exhibiting greater radical-scavenging potential. The strong antimicrobial and antioxidant effects of T. chebula are attributed to its high content of tannins, gallic acid, and phenolic compounds. Conclusion: T.chebula and W.somnifera exhibit significant antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, supporting their traditional use in oral healthcare. T. chebula in particular demonstrates strong potential as a natural agent in the prevention and management of oral infections. Further research, including phytochemical isolation, cytotoxicity studies, and clinical evaluation, is warranted to develop effective herbal formulations for dental applications.