Remineralization and Antibacterial efficacy of Ashwagandha, Maca and Ginger-based mouthwashes versus Fluoride-based mouthwash on initial enamel caries: An in-vitro study

Purpose: this study was conducted to evaluate the remineralizing and antibacterial potential of some herbals (Ashwagandha, Maca, and Ginger) in comparison to Fluoride-based mouthwash on initial enamel carious lesions. Materials and Methods: Fifty extracted premolars were used in this study and distributed into five groups of (n=10). Group A: teeth treated with 0.5% Ashwagandha-based mouthwash; Group M: teeth treated with 0.5% Maca-based mouthwash; Group G: teeth treated with 0.5% Ginger-based mouthwash; Group F: teeth treated with Fluoride-based mouthwash as a positive control group ; and Group C; negative control group: teeth not subjected to any treatment. All teeth were assessed using the DIAGNOdent pen® at baseline, after demineralization, and after 14 days with different remineralizing materials. The antibacterial activities of herbal extracts and Fluoride against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus were measured by an antimicrobial susceptibility test. The data were statistically analyzed using an ANOVA test. Results: All experimental groups showed a decrease in DIAGNOdent pen® values. Group G showed the most significant decrease (-8.3±2.16), followed by Group M (-7.3±0.82), and Group A (-7.3±1.25), then Group F (-6.5±0.53). The least decrease was noted in the control group (-3.6±0.97). The difference between groups was statistically significant (p=0.000).All mouthwashes used had antibacterial potential against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria, with no statistically significant difference between them.Conclusion: Herbal-based-mouthwashes of 0.5 % Ashwagandha, Maca, and Ginger are effective remineralizing agents on initial enamel carious lesions with antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus.