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Go to Editorial ManagerBackground: Volkameria inermis is a medicinal plant traditionally used for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Owing to the increasing resistance of pathogenic bacteria to conventional antibiotics, there is a growing interest in exploring plant-derived compounds as alternative therapeutic agents. Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of an ethanolic extract of Volkameria inermis leaves by using an ethanolic solvent that was eighty percent strength. Methods: Samples of leaves were gathered from the center area of Iraq (Al-Musayab), and washed, sorted, and dried in a shaded environment. Through the use of 800 milliliters of 80% ethanol, an extract of Volkameria inermis leaves was created and dried using a rotary evaporator, it was stored in petri dishes that had been sterilized, and one milligram of the extract was dissolved in one milliliter of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). To conduct the antibacterial test using the agar well diffusion technique, the solution was serially diluted to a concentration of 1 mg/ml. The efficacy of an ethanol extract against bacteria as assessed by well diffusion method. Results: When tested against both (Staphylococcus aureus) and (Salmonella typhi) bacteria, the ethanolic extract of Volkameria inermis demonstrated a notable antibacterial effect at a concentration of 500 μg/ml, which resulted in more inhibition zones than the antibiotic ciprofloxacin. Conclusion: The outcomes of this study demonstrated that the Volkameria inermis plant outperformed the drug ciprofloxacin in its antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi.
Streptococcus salivarius is a Gram-positive, non-pathogenic bacterium naturally found in the oral microbiota of healthy individuals. It is recognized as an effective probiotic due to its antimicrobial properties and ability to stimulate the immune system, particularly activating natural killer (NK) cells and producing anti-tumor cytokines such as interferon-gamma and interleukin-12 (IL-12). Strains K12 and M18 of this bacterium are specifically used to combat harmful oral bacteria and prevent tooth decay. These strains act by producing bacteriocins, especially against Streptococcus mutans (the main cause of tooth decay). Probiotics, in general, are live microorganisms that, when consumed in sufficient amounts, have beneficial effects on the host's health. Streptococcus salivarius, as a probiotic, plays a role not only in oral and dental health but also in improving overall body health. Studies have shown that this bacterium can help reduce bad breath, improve gum health, and reduce dental plaque formation. Additionally, the use of products containing this probiotic, such as toothpaste and mouthwash, can help its effective colonization in the oral cavity. Compared to conventional methods such as the use of antibiotics, probiotics are safer and reduce the risk of microbial resistance. However, probiotic consumption may cause mild side effects such as bloating or diarrhea in some individuals. Overall, Streptococcus salivarius as a promising probiotic plays an important role in maintaining oral and dental health and improving the quality of life.