Inhibition Activity of Lemongrass Extract (Cymbopogoncitratus) to the Growth of Supragingiva Plaque Bacteria Colony

Abstract

Background: Periodontal disease is multi-factor. Itis caused by the interaction of microbes which accumulated
into biofilms called plaques and increase the host’s inflammatory immune response. If plaque removal is not
adequate, it causes gingivitis, and if it continues then it becomes a chronic infection and leads to attachment
loss. The bacteria that colonize inside supragingival plaque can be inhibited with something that contains
antibacterial, e.g. lemongrass (Cymbopogoncitratus). Lemongrass contains many phytochemicals including
alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins which can be used as antibacterials.
Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the inhibitory power of citronella leaf extract against
supragingival plaque bacterial activity.
Method: This study used extracts diluted with serial dilution method on BHIB media with concentration of
100%; 50%; 25%; 12.5%; 6.25%; 3.125%; 1.56%; 0.78% and bacteria are planted on MHA media. Then,
bacterial colony was calculated.
Results: There are significant differences in the growth of supragingival plaque bacterial colonies in all
concentrations.
Conclusion: Lemongrass leaf extract (Cymbopogoncitratus) inhibits the growth of supragingival plaque
bacterial colonies at a concentration ranging from 3,125%