Search Results (32)

In this study, we investigated the antifungal potential of methanolic extracts and essential oils obtained from five medicinal plants (Salvadora persica, Mentha spicata, Achillea millefolium, Matricaria chamomilla, and Zingiber officinale) against 25 clinical isolates of Candida albicans collected from patients with denture stomatitis. Antifungal susceptibility was assessed using broth microdilution as the primary method, with agar diffusion assays performed to provide complementary visual confirmation. Nystatin was included as a reference control. Across the tested samples, essential oils consistently showed stronger antifungal effects than the corresponding methanolic extracts. Notably, Z. officinale essential oil exhibited the highest level of activity, inhibiting 15 out of 25 isolates and, in several cases, demonstrating efficacy comparable to or exceeding that of nystatin. Chemical profiling by GC–MS indicated that the ginger essential oil was dominated by sesquiterpene and monoterpene hydrocarbons, with zingiberene (21.49%) being the major constituent, followed by β-sesquiphellandrene, α-curcumene, sabinene, and α-citral. This terpene-rich composition may contribute to the observed antifungal activity, potentially through the disruption of fungal cell membrane integrity. Taken together, these results suggest that Z. officinale essential oil represents a promising natural antifungal candidate for the management of denture-associated C. albicans infections. Further studies, including biofilm-based assays and in vivo evaluations, will be necessary to confirm its clinical applicability. To the best of our knowledge, this study is among the first to comparatively assess these five medicinal plants against clinical C. albicans isolates derived specifically from denture stomatitis patients. Full article

Background: Commercial oral care products commonly incorporate synthetic antimicrobials such as cetylpyridinium chloride (Cetyl Cl.), L-Arginine (L-arg.), and stannous fluoride (SnF₂). Although effective against oral pathogens, these agents are often associated with adverse effects including mucosal irritation, taste alteration, and disruption of the oral microbiome. These limitations have spurred growing interest in safer, plant-based alternatives. In this study, we present a two-pronged in vitro oral care testing model that integrates cell assays with machine-guided quantitative microscopy analyses to assess both antibacterial efficacy and host biocompatibility of botanical extracts. Methods: Using Miswak (Salvadora persica) and Neem (Azadirachta indica) as representative natural products, we conducted antibacterial and antibiofilm testing including the evaluation of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC), and minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC), alongside biocompatibility assessments via MTT cell viability assays on probiotic bacteria and mammalian oral cells. To evaluate biofilm structure and disruption, we employed scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), augmented with machine-guided Weka segmentation and automated image analysis. Results: Our findings show that Miswak and Neem extracts exhibited 75–100% antibacterial and antibiofilm efficacy against all tested bacteria, as demonstrated by cell assays and microscopy analyses, comparable to synthetic oral care agents. They also maintained ~100% viability toward commensal microbes and mammalian oral cells, whereas Cetyl Cl. and SnF₂ showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity. Conclusions: This dual-assessment oral care testing model provides a comprehensive and biologically relevant framework for the discovery and screening of safe and effective natural herbal extracts in oral care applications. Full article

Background: The benefits of Salvadora persica L. chewing stick as an oral hygiene tool have been extensively demonstrated in clinical studies worldwide. Nonetheless, there are wide variations in knowledge, awareness, and practice of these chewing sticks across different populations. This scoping review aims to synthesize current knowledge gaps and practice patterns to inform potential standardization of S. persica use. Methods: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a systematic literature search was conducted by using the Web of Science, Medline, and Scopus databases, covering studies published up to June 2025. Results: Twenty-seven studies were included, involving diverse populations from Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Knowledge, awareness, and practice of S. persica chewing sticks varied significantly by region, demographic group, and mode of use. Most studies evaluating awareness and knowledge reported that a lack of information on proper use leads to reduced practice. There was no standardized method of use reported. Behaviors varied in terms of preparation of the stick before use, frequency and duration of use, angle or technique during brushing, and storage methods after use. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the need for culturally sensitive clinical guidelines and community health education programs to inform both the public and healthcare professionals about the use of S. persica chewing sticks–particularly in populations with limited access to other oral hygiene tools. Full article

Substantial tooth bonding is the defining characteristic of effective minimally invasive all-ceramic restorations. Natural and synthetic cross-linkers that could strengthen the bonding quality are currently drawing enormous interest. Thus, this study aimed to assess the microtensile bond strength and nanoleakage of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)-fabricated ceramics to pretreated dentin with chlorhexidine or Salvadora persica extract, compared to no pretreatment, after thermomechanical cyclic loading. Consequently, forty-five extracted third-molar teeth (n = 45) were utilized to obtain mid-coronal dentin and assigned into three groups (n = 15) in accordance with dentin pretreatment; (group I: no dentin pretreatment (control), group II: 2% chlorhexidine, and group III: Salvadora persica extract pretreatments). Ceramic onlays were milled from lithium disilicate IPS e.max CAD/CAM blocks and cemented to prepared teeth with etch-and-rinse resin cement (Variolink Esthetic DC system kit). Microtensile bond strength and interfacial nanoleakage were accessed after thermomechanical cyclic loading. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey’s post hoc test. Additionally, p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The chlorhexidine pretreated group showed the most favorable outcome compared to the control group. Conversely, using Salvadora persica pretreatment did not affect the bond strength and nanoleakage compared to the control group (p > 0.05). Consequently, unlike Salvadora persica extract, chlorhexidine–dentin pretreatment maintained superior bonding strength to ceramics after thermomechanical cyclic loading, facilitating minimally invasive, yet lasting, aesthetic restoration. Full article

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to diverse indigenous medicinal plants traditionally used for centuries. This study systematically evaluates the pharmacological and nutritional potential of key medicinal plants, including Lawsonia inermis, Nigella sativa, Ziziphus spina-christi, Allium cepa, Allium sativum, Cymbopogon schoenanthus, Matricaria aurea, Phoenix dactylifera, Portulaca oleracea, Reichardia tingitana, Salvadora persica, Solanum lycopersicum, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Withania somnifera, and Ziziphus lotus. Comprehensive literature searches were conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify studies relevant to their nutritional and pharmacological uses. The findings highlight the therapeutic roles of these plants in managing global health challenges such as gastrointestinal diseases, and antimicrobial resistance through bioactive compounds like flavonoids, polyphenols, and antioxidants. Additionally, their contributions to nutrition, including essential vitamins and minerals, are emphasized for disease prevention and health promotion. While this research focuses on the UAE, the implications are globally relevant, as many of these plants are also found in traditional medicine across Asia, Africa, and Europe. Integrating these findings into global nutritional and healthcare systems offers potential solutions for pressing public health concerns, reduces reliance on synthetic pharmaceuticals, and promotes sustainable healthcare practices. This work is a valuable reference for researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers, bridging traditional knowledge and modern scientific applications globally. Full article

Background/Objectives: The miswak, crafted from the Salvadora persica tree, is a traditional teeth-cleaning twig that has served as a natural substitute for toothbrushes and toothpaste across diverse regions for centuries. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of miswak and a conventional toothbrush in reducing dental plaque and gingivitis over a two-week period. Methods: This two-week randomized, single-blind (clinical investigator), two-parallel-arm clinical trial was conducted at Princess Nourah University College of Dentistry (PNUCD). Stratified random sampling identified sixty participants who were then randomly assigned to two study groups: the miswak group and the toothbrushing group. To facilitate data collection, a self-designed form was employed to document participants’ initials, assigned group, the Silness and Loe plaque index, and the Loe and Silness gingival index. The clinical examination, conducted by two blinded and trained examiners using a mouth mirror and explorer under natural light, aimed to assess the specified indices. The collected data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics, Version 22. Results: Following the intervention, the miswak group exhibited no significant change in the plaque scores (p = 0.58) compared to the toothbrush group (p = 0.007). A notable rise in gingival score was observed within the miswak group (p < 0.001), whereas no significant change was noted within the toothbrush group (p = 0.52). Conclusions: Over a two-week period, miswak was successful in controlling dental plaque; however, gingival scores were higher, which could be attributed to the aggressive use of miswak. With proper training, the use of miswak has the potential to contribute positively to gingival health, particularly in regions where it is readily accessible and affordable. Full article

The plants Bauhinia rufescens, Ocimum basilicum and Salvadora persica are well known in traditional African medicine, and particularly in traditional Chadian medicine. They are commonly used to treat infectious diseases, inflammatory diseases, fevers, gastroenteritis and other medical conditions. The aim of this study was to perform a phytochemical screening to determine the antioxidant properties of different extracts and fractions from the three plants. Ethanolic extracts and solvent fractions were prepared and analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and total tannin content (TTC). LC-MS and an online screening HPLC-ABTS system identified phytochemicals with antioxidant activities. DPPH and ABTS reduction methods were used to test the extracts and fractions for their antioxidant potential. The results showed that the TPC of O. basilicum was higher than that of B. rufescens, ranging from 64.70 ± 5.2 to 411.16 ± 8.11 mgGAE/g DW. B. rufescens extracts and fractions, on the other hand, showed higher TFC, ranging from 69.5 ± 5.3 to 408.26 ± 8.42 mgQE/g DW, and higher TTC, ranging from 4.57 ± 2.45 to 62.19 ± 4.7 mgTAE/g DW. The maximum TPC, TFC and TTC in both plants were recorded in the ethyl acetate fractions. S. persica extracts and fractions showed a very low quantity of TPC, TFC and TTC. Based on LC-MS and HPLC-ABTS analysis, rosmarinic acid was identified as the major component in the extracts and all fractions of O. basilicum, and epicatechin, procyanidin B and quercetin were found in B. rufescens. S. persica did not exhibit specific substances with antioxidant activity and was therefore not considered for further assays. DPPH and ABTS results showed that ethyl acetate fractions of B. rufescens and O. basilicum have the strongest antioxidant activities. This study indicates that B. rufescens and O. basilicum are good sources of phytochemicals with antioxidant properties, suitable for medicinal use in Chadian communities. Additionally, the antioxidant-rich extracts from these plants hold significant potential for cosmetic development, enhancing skin health and protecting against oxidative-stress-induced damage. Full article

This study delves into the ethnoveterinary medicine (EVM) practiced by pastoralists along the transhumance routes in southwestern Angola. Within the framework of three cooperation projects, we conducted 434 interviews, collecting information on 89 taxa used for treating 16 livestock diseases. The most cited species was Ptaeroxylon obliquum (132 citations), followed by Salvadora persica (59) and Elaeodendron transvaalense (49). Contagious bovine pleuropneumonia (CBPP) was the disease most cited (223 citations; 44 species), followed by wounds (95; 20) and Newcastle (86; 14). We found that 30 species and 48 uses have not been previously reported in the ethnoveterinary literature. Jaccard index (mean value = 0.13) showed a greatly diversified knowledge among the ethnic groups: Kuvale and Nyaneka were the most knowledgeable and should be included in the various strategies for disseminating EVM in the area. Most informants recognized that abundance of some species decreased in the last years as a result of human activities and climatic changes. Finally, we discuss challenges in preserving the EVM in the area. Our findings suggest that preservation of the EVM in southwestern Angola is widely impacted by the access to biomedicine. Future studies should investigate the opportunity to integrate traditional medicine into mainstream development projects, which is crucial for decolonizing the veterinary sector in Angola. Full article

The current study evaluated the biogenic synthesis of nickel oxide nanoparticles (SP-NiONPs) from the root extract of (Salvadora persica) S. persica and their biological properties. The nanoparticles were characterized using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques and then evaluated for their antimicrobial properties against 10 oral pathogens. The ultraviolet-visible (UV–Vis) spectra exhibited a distinctive resonance spectrum at 334 nm for the SP-NiONPs produced from S. persica. The fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis revealed the presence of functional groups of biomolecules of S. persica that served as reducing and capping agents of the SP-NiONPs. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses showed that the nanoparticles were spherical-shaped, tightly packed, and ranged in size from 18.20 nm to 45.12 nm. The energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) analysis confirmed 69.9% of the nickel (Ni) content by weight, and the X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed the face-centered cubic (FCC) crystalline structure of the formed SP-NiONPs. The antioxidant activity of the SP-NiONPs exhibited a dose-dependent profile with an IC50 value of 51.45 ± 0.65 and a 54.13 ± 0.98 DPPH^• and ABTS^•+ radical scavenging activity, respectively. The SP-NiONPs showed an antibacterial activity against all the test strains; however, E. cloacae was found to be the most sensitive strain, with an inhibition zone of 31 ± 0.50 mm. The SEM image of the E. cloacae cells treated with SP-NiONPs showed irregular shapes and ruptured, destroyed cell membranes. Our findings revealed that SP-NiONPs could be used as excellent antibacterial agents against oral pathogens. Full article

Streptococcus mutans, a gram-positive oral pathogen, is the primary causative agent of dental caries. Biofilm formation, a critical characteristic of S. mutans, is regulated by quorum sensing (QS). This study aimed to utilize pharmacoinformatics techniques to screen and identify effective phytochemicals that can target specific proteins involved in the quorum sensing pathway of S. mutans. A computational approach involving homology modeling, model validation, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was employed. The 3D structures of the quorum sensing target proteins, namely SecA, SMU1784c, OppC, YidC2, CiaR, SpaR, and LepC, were modeled using SWISS-MODEL and validated using a Ramachandran plot. Metabolites from Azadirachta indica (Neem), Morinda citrifolia (Noni), and Salvadora persica (Miswak) were docked against these proteins using AutoDockTools. MD simulations were conducted to assess stable interactions between the highest-scoring ligands and the target proteins. Additionally, the ADMET properties of the ligands were evaluated using SwissADME and pkCSM tools. The results demonstrated that campesterol, meliantrol, stigmasterol, isofucosterol, and ursolic acid exhibited the strongest binding affinity for CiaR, LepC, OppC, SpaR, and Yidc2, respectively. Furthermore, citrostadienol showed the highest binding affinity for both SMU1784c and SecA. Notably, specific amino acid residues, including ASP86, ARG182, ILE179, GLU143, ASP237, PRO101, and VAL84 from CiaR, LepC, OppC, SecA, SMU1784c, SpaR, and YidC2, respectively, exhibited significant interactions with their respective ligands. While the docking study indicated favorable binding energies, the MD simulations and ADMET studies underscored the substantial binding affinity and stability of the ligands with the target proteins. However, further in vitro studies are necessary to validate the efficacy of these top hits against S. mutans. Full article

This study examines the effects of alkaline treatment on the mechanical and thermal properties of miswak fiber-reinforced polylactic acid. The treatment was performed with three distinct concentrations of sodium hydroxide (NaOH): 1 wt %, 2 wt %, and 3 wt %. The difficulties of interaction between the surface of the fiber and the matrix, which led to this treatment, is caused by miswak fiber’s hydrophilic character, which impedes its ability to bind with hydrophobic polylactic acid. FTIR, tensile, TGA, and DMA measurements were used to characterize the composite samples. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to examine the microstructures of many broken samples. The treatment is not yet especially effective in enhancing interfacial bonding, as seen by the uneven tensile strength data. The effect of the treated fiber surface significantly improves the tensile strength of miswak fiber-reinforced PLA composites. Tensile strength improves by 18.01%, 6.48%, and 14.50%, respectively, for 1 wt %, 2 wt %, and 3 wt %. Only 2 wt %-treated fiber exhibits an increase of 0.7% in tensile modulus. The modulus decreases by 4.15 % at 1 wt % and by 19.7% at 3 wt %, respectively. The TGA curve for alkali-treated fiber composites demonstrates a slight increase in thermal stability when compared to untreated fiber composites at high temperatures. For DMA, the composites with surface treatment have higher storage moduli than the composite with untreated miswak fiber, especially for the PLA reinforced with 2 wt % alkali miswak fiber, proving the effectiveness of the treatment. Full article

Neuroinflammation is a serious immunomodulatory complex disorder that causes neurological and somatic ailments. The treatment of brain inflammation with new drugs derived from natural sources is a significant therapeutic goal. Utilizing LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis, the active constituents of Salvadora persica extract (SPE) were identified tentatively as exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in natural medicine. Herein, we determined the antiviral potential of SPE against herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) using the plaque assay. HSV-2 is a neurotropic virus that can cause neurological diseases. SPE exhibited promising antiviral potential with a half-maximal cytotoxic concentration (CC₅₀) of 185.960 ± 0.1 µg/mL and a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of 8.946 ± 0.02 µg/mL. The in vivo study of the SPE impact against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation was performed using 42 mice divided into seven groups. All groups were administered LPS (0.25 mg/kg) intraperitoneally, except for the normal and SPE groups 1 and 2. Groups 5, 6, and 7 received 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg SPE. It was revealed that SPE inhibited acetylcholinesterase in the brain. It increased superoxide dismutase and catalase while decreasing malondialdehyde, which explains its antioxidative stress activity. SPE downregulated the gene expression of the inducible nitric oxide synthase, as well as the apoptotic markers (caspase-3 and c-Jun). In addition, it decreased the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha). Mice administered SPE (300 mg/kg) with LPS exhibited normal neurons in the cerebral cortices, hippocampus pyramidal layer, and cerebellum, as determined by the histopathological analysis. Therefore, using S. persica to prevent and treat neurodegeneration could be a promising new therapeutic strategy to be explored. Full article

Plants in coastal ecosystems are primarily known as natural sinks of trace metals and their importance for phytoremediation is well established. Salvadora persica L., a medicinally important woody crop of marginal coasts, was evaluated for the accumulation of metal pollutants (viz. Fe, Mn, Cu, Pb, Zn, and Cr) from three coastal areas of Karachi on a seasonal basis. Korangi creek, being the most polluted site, had higher heavy metals (HM’s) in soil (Fe up to 17,389, Mn: 268, Zn: 105, Cu: 23, Pb: 64.7 and Cr up to 35.9 mg kg⁻¹) and S. persica accumulated most of the metals with >1 TF (translocation factor), yet none of them exceeded standard permissible ranges except for Pb (up to 3.1 in roots and 3.37 mg kg⁻¹ in leaves with TF = 11.7). Seasonal data suggested that higher salinity in Clifton and Korangi creeks during pre- and post-monsoon summers resulted in lower leaf water (ΨW_o) and osmotic potential at full turgor (ΨS_o) and bulk elasticity (ε), higher leaf Na⁺ and Pb but lower extractable concentrations of other toxic metals (Cr, Cu, and Zn) in S. persica. Variation in metal accumulation may be linked to metal speciation via specific transporters and leaf water relation dynamics. Our results suggested that S. persica could be grown on Zn, Cr and Cu polluted soils but not on Pb affected soils as its leaves accumulated higher concentrations than the proposed limits. Full article

Despite the antiplaque effect of mouth-rinsing with a combination composed of miswak (Salvadora persica L.) and green tea (Camellia sinensis var. assamica) extracts, no data are available regarding its effect on gingival tissue at the molecular level. This pilot study aimed to assess the effect of oral rinsing with this combination on gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) flow and IL-1β levels. Ten subjects rinsed with either the combination, 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) or distilled water without toothbrushing for 4 days after receiving baseline polishing. GCF IL-1β concentration, influx, resting volume and plaque quantity were measured at baseline and after 4 days for each intervention. No significant differences in GCF flow or resting volume were detected after rinsing with the different mouthwashes. A significant increase in GCF IL-1β concentration was evident only after rinsing with distilled water. Rinsing with combination induced a significant reduction in GCF influx (−0.086 ± 0.222) compared to CHX (0.088 ± 0.247) and distilled water (0.075 ± 0.201). Less plaque was detected after rinsing with combination and CHX. Short-term oral rinsing with this combination could potentially induce no significant changes in GCF flow and IL-1β concentration, and might retard inflammation. Thus, it might be considered in the production of natural oral healthcare products. Full article

(1) Background: The objective of this study was to investigate the potential of Salvadora oleoides (S. oleoides) and Salvadora persica (S. persica) polyphenols as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. (2) Methods: Aerial parts and fruits of S. oleoides and S. persica were collected from the periphery of District Bhakkar, Punjab, Pakistan. Methanol extracts were prepared using the Soxhlet extraction technique. Extract yield varied from 8.15 to 19.6 g/100 g dry plant material. RP-HPLC revealed the detection of thirteen phenolic aids and five flavonoids. Gallic acid, hydroxy benzoic acid, chlorogenic acid, and cinamic acid were the major phenolic acids, whereas catechin, rutin, and myricetin were the flavonoids detected. (3) Results: Maximum total phenolic contents (TPCs) (22.2 mg/g of dry plant material) and total flavonoid contents (TFCs) (6.17 mg/g of dry plant material) were found in the fruit extract of S. persica, and the minimum TPC (11.9 mg/g) and TFC (1.72 mg/g) were found in the aerial part of S. oleoides. The fruit extract of S. persica showed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity. In vivo anti-inflammatory activity of all the extracts was performed on albumin-induced rat paw edema that was comparable with the standard indomethacin; S. persica fruit extract showed remarkable anti-inflammatory activity. Analgesic activity of aerial part and fruit extracts of S. oleoides and S. persica was investigated using a mouse model, and the results showed that maximum possible analgesia of fruit extracts of S. persica was 53.44%, which is better than the PC group (52.98%). (4) Conclusions: The variations in the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic activities of methanolic extracts of S. oleoides and S. persica were found to be significant, and they have therapeutic potential as antioxidant, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory agents. Full article