Taro (Colosia esculenta) Leaves Extract Inhibits Streptococcus mutans ATCC 31987

Dental caries was the most common disease in both adults and children. Streptococcus mutans is main bacteria causing plaque formation initiator of dental caries. Antibacterials derived from plants can be used to prevent formation. Taro (Colosia esculenta) has been traditional medicine. Antibacterial compounds have discovered C. esculenta leaves. This study aimed determine ability leaf ethanol extract inhibit growth S. ATCC 31987. Simplicia preparation, phytochemical screening carried out. Then, antibacterial activity test performed using disc diffusion method zone inhibition at various concentrations 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70%. Colosia contains alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, saponins, produces an each concentration variation. Very strong produced a 70% 21.11±0.46 mm, which higher than positive control.