Formulation of herbal based dentifrice from solanum anguivi fruit extracts for dental caries control.

Abstract

Dentifrices have been used since ancient times and are crucial, indispensable part of oral healthcare. During that that time, crushed bone, crushed egg shells and clams were used when brushing teeth, shells were used as abrasive. In order to prevent and or treat oral illnesses, attention has recently been resorted to the release of active substances from medicinal plants for formulation development. The photochemical screening of Solanum anguivi involved the extraction of plant materials using suitable solvents followed by qualitative and quantitative analyses of the extract obtained. The phytochemical tests carried out were alkaloid tests, flavonoid tests, tannins tests, phenolic compound tests, and glycoside tests in order to determine the presence of specific phytochemicals in the fruits of the plant. The phytochemical tests revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, and terpenoids and these compounds are well-known for their potential health benefits and therefore contribute to the medicinal properties of Solanum anguivi lam. The herbal dentifrice was formulated from three major plant species, Solanum anguivi Lam., Asparagus racemosus, and Euclea Rasemosa ssp Schimperi as active ingredients and other un fluoridated excipients and branded as SEAL. The prepared dentifrice was evaluated for different tests like spread ability, foaming power, taste, PH, stability, colour, odour and abrasiveness. However further investigation should be made to determine the antibacterial activity of the formulated product especially on streptococcus matan since it is the main cause of tooth infections. KEY WORDS Phytochemical, Solanum anguivi Lam, antibacterial activity