Antimicrobial effect of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) on periodontal pathogens: An in vitro study

Abstract

Usages of antibiotics play an adjunctive role in the management of periodontitis. Antibiotic resistance is a major global issue, implicated with inadvertent drug usage. Herbal interventions are a therapeutic strategy that warrants greater research attention. Flax seed is one such recognized original super food which is rich in omega 3 fatty acids and has demonstrated potent anti-microbial and anti-biofilm activity. This in vitro study aims to evaluate antimicrobial activity of flaxseed extract against periodontal pathogens. Ethanolic extract of flaxseed powder was prepared and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Tannerella forsythia were estimated. Flaxseed extract exhibited bacteriostatic activity against all pathogens whereas bactericidal against P. gingivalis at the concentration of 100μl/ml. Present study demonstrated bactericidal role of flaxseed against P. gingivalis, a key periodontal pathogen can be an adjunct to periodontal therapy.