In Vitro Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Evaluation of Phyllanthus Emblica Oral Spray

Phyllanthus emblica (Amla) is a medicinal plant valued in Ayurveda and other traditional systems for its broad therapeutic potential. Rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and polyphenols, the fruit is known for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytoprotective properties. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and biological activities of an authenticated methanolic extract of P. emblica fruit using standardized in vitro protocols. Fresh P. emblica fruits were authenticated and extracted by cold maceration using ethanol. Phytochemical screening was conducted using standard tests. The extract was formulated into a 1:10 oral spray using Carbopol 940 gel. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay. Antibacterial efficacy against Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli was evaluated using a resazurin microdilution assay. Cytoprotective potential was determined in THP-1 cell lines using the MTT assay and AO/EB dual staining. Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, phenols, tannins, and terpenoids. The extract exhibited strong, concentration-dependent antioxidant activity, with 88.78% scavenging at 1:10 dilution. It also showed significant antibacterial activity—up to 52.21% inhibition for E. coli at 1:1 dilution. The MTT assay confirmed high cell viability (83–97%) across all tested concentrations, indicating good cytocompatibility. Phyllanthus emblica extract demonstrates potent antioxidant and antibacterial activities with excellent biocompatibility, supporting its traditional use and potential in natural oral and therapeutic formulations