Comparative evaluation of antibacterial effect of virgin coconut oil and chlorhexidine mouthwash against periodontal pathogen – An in vitro study

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the antibacterial efficacy of virgin coconut oil (VCO) and 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash against Porphyromonas gingivalis in vitro. Methods: An in vitro experimental study was conducted over a period of two months. P. gingivalis (ATCC 33277) was cultured, and antibacterial activity was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method and broth microdilution technique to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Study groups included VCO (experimental), 0.2% CHX (positive control), and a negative control. Optical density was measured at 600 nm. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA, Mann–Whitney U test, and Spearman’s correlation. Results: Both CHX and VCO exhibited antibacterial activity against P. gingivalis . The MIC values were 2.56 μg/mL for CHX and 1% for VCO. CHX demonstrated slightly higher efficacy; however, VCO showed significant antibacterial activity at 1% concentration. Statistical analysis indicated a dose-dependent inhibition, with no significant difference between groups at individual dilutions (p = 1.0). Conclusions: Virgin coconut oil demonstrated promising antibacterial activity comparable to chlorhexidine against Porphyromonas gingivalis . It may serve as a natural adjunct or alternative in periodontal therapy due to its biocompatibility and minimal side effects. Further in vivo studies are recommended to validate its clinical applicability.