ABSTRACT
Herbal medicine has been widely utilized for centuries in the treatment of infectious diseases, offering an alternative to synthetic drugs due to its natural bioactive compounds and minimal side effects. Among the conditions that benefit from herbal interventions, mouth sores and blisters pose a significant challenge due to their association with bacterial and fungal infections, which can lead to pain, inflammation, and impaired oral function. Conventional treatments often face limitations, including antimicrobial resistance and adverse effects, necessitating the exploration of plant-based remedies. This study investigates the antimicrobial, phytochemical, and elemental composition of three medicinal plants traditionally used for oral health: Psidium guajava (guava), Curcuma longa (turmeric), and Syzygium aromaticum (clove). These plants were subjected to in vitro antimicrobial assays, including minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and zone of inhibition tests against common oral pathogens such as Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The findings revealed a concentration-dependent antimicrobial effect, with E. coli and S. mutans being the most susceptible, while P. aeruginosa exhibited higher resistance. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds such as phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and saponins, which contribute to antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Elemental analysis further identified essential minerals, including potassium, calcium, iron, and zinc, which support immune function and wound healing. These results validate the traditional use of P. guajava, C. longa, and S. aromaticum in the management of mouth sores and blisters and highlight their potential as natural alternatives to conventional treatments.
