A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE ANTI-CARIES ACTIVITY OF TWO COMMON CHEWING STICKS USED IN NIGERIA, ZANTHOXYLUM ZANTHOXYLOIDES S AND NAUCLEA LATIFOLIA

Dental caries, a widespread infection caused by cariogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, is traditionally managed in Nigeria using chewing sticks like Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides and Nauclea latifolia. This study compares the anti-caries activity of these two plants and provides a scientific basis for their traditional use. The stems of Z. zanthoxyloides and N. latifolia were collected, identified, and subjected to powder microscopy, proximate analysis, phytochemical screening, and GC-MS analysis. The antimicrobial activity of the extracts was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp., and Candida albicans. Both plants exhibited significant antibacterial activity, with Z. zanthoxyloides showing effectiveness against S. aureus even at low concentrations, while N. latifolia was broadly effective against all tested organisms. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and steroids in both extracts, with GC-MS analysis identifying key bioactive compounds. Incorporating Z. zanthoxyloides into a plain toothpaste enhanced its antimicrobial activity, suggesting its potential in modern preventive dental care. These findings validate the traditional use of Z. zanthoxyloides and N. latifolia as effective oral hygiene agents, offering a cost-effective alternative for managing dental caries in Nigeria. The study confirms the presence of bioactive compounds responsible for their antimicrobial properties and supports their integration into contemporary dental care practices.