Uji Daya Hambat Ekstrak Biji Pepaya California (Carica Papaya L. Var. Callina) Terhadap Bakteri Streptococcus Mutans (in vitro)
Abstract
Background: Streptococcus mutans is one of the common normal flora found in the oral cavity. Chlorhexidine (CHX) is widely recognized as the gold standard against Streptococcus mutans. However, CHX-based mouthwashes may cause several side effects, including xerostomia, hypogeusia, tongue discoloration, and tooth staining. Herbal ingredients such as papaya seeds contain various bioactive compounds that exhibit biological activity against various disease-causing agents. Previous studies have shown that Carica papaya L. is rich in phytochemicals, including flavonoids, saponins, and steroids. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of California papaya seed extract (Carica papaya L. var. Callina) against Streptococcus mutans based on inhibition zone diameter in vitro.
Method: This study employed a post-test only group design, involving 24 samples that were allocated into treatment and control groups. The antibacterial activity was assessed using the disk diffusion method on Blood Agar, selected for its suitability in supporting the optimal growth of Streptococcus mutans ATCC 35668. Papaya seed extract was tested at concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. As controls, 0.2% chlorhexidine digluconate was used as the positive control, while sterile distilled water served as the negative control. The bacterial suspension was evenly spread on the agar surface, and the inhibition zones were measured following 24–48 hours of incubation at 37°C.
Results: No inhibition zones were observed at 25% and 50% concentrations (diameter = 0 mm). Inhibition zones began to appear at 75% and increased significantly at 100%. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between groups (p < 0.05).
Latar Belakang: Streptococcus mutans merupakan bakteri utama penyebab karies gigi. Chlorhexidine sebagai standar emas memiliki efek samping, sehingga dibutuhkan alternatif herbal. Biji pepaya (Carica Papaya L. var. Callina) memiliki potensi antibakteri.
Metode: Penelitian ini merupakan eksperimental laboratorium menggunakan metode difusi cakram untuk menguji daya hambat ekstrak biji pepaya terhadap pertumbuhan Streptococcus mutans. Lima kelompok uji digunakan yaitu kontrol negatif (aquadest), kontrol positif (chlorhexidine 0,2%), dan ekstrak biji pepaya dengan konsentrasi 25%, 50%, 75%, dan 100%. Zona hambat diamati setelah 24 jam inkubasi.
Hasil: Terdapat zona hambat pada semua konsentrasi ekstrak biji pepaya. Diameter zona hambat meningkat seiring konsentrasi ekstrak. Chlorhexidine menunjukkan daya hambat terbesar. Terdapat perbedaan signifikan antar kelompok (p<0.05).
Kesimpulan: Ekstrak biji pepaya California memiliki aktivitas antibakteri terhadap Streptococcus mutans dan berpotensi sebagai alternatif alami pengganti chlorhexidine.
