Evaluation of the antimicrobial effects of extract of Zataria multiflora against oral Streptococci

Dental caries is the most common chronic disease which involve the civilized humankind and is designated as the “disease of the civilization”. Oral Streptococci such as S. sanguis, S. salivarius and S. mutans have a very important role to play in the process of plaque formation. In order to inhibit and control caries process, the growth of such Streptococci must be reined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anti-microbial effects of Zataria multiflora on the mentioned streptococci. The MIC and MBC of Z. multiflora were determined by change of number of bacteria in the presence of different concentrations of Z. multiflora in differernt times. The results showed that MIC values for S. sanguis, S. salivarius and S. mutans were 15%, 20% and 10%. MBC values were 25%, 20% and >25%, respectivly. Reduction of number of bacteria in the present of different concentrations of extract, were depended with the concentration and time. With increasing of concentration and time, the eficacy of extract on the living bacteria, were increased. Multiflora is native in Iran and with more study and research on the antimicrobial effects of this medicinal herb, probably, we can use it for producing a drug (mouthwash).