ABSTRACT
Zinc Oxide nanoparticle is of particular interest among researchers due to its wide range of applications. Green synthesis of nanoparticles has many benefits like being eco-friendly, less time consuming, cost effective, stable operation, and more importantly the process can be carried out without the involvement of any hazardous chemicals. Clove and cinnamon are known to have antimicrobial activity. Hence, this study was conducted to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of zinc oxide nanoparticles reinforced with clove and cinnamon against oral pathogens. METHODSThis is an in vitro study. The organisms used were Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. These bacteria were inoculated in their respective medium and incubated overnight. Agar well diffusion method was used to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of the nanoparticles at 25 µL, 50 µL and 100 µL. RESULTSZone of inhibition was found to be highest at 100 µL against Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus faecalis (15 mm, 13 mm, and 13 mm respectively). CONCLUSIONSFindings from this study suggest that zinc oxide nanoparticles reinforced with clove and cinnamon extracts has the potential as an antimicrobial agent against Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis and can be used as an alternative to commercially available antimicrobial agents.