Efficacy of Ocimum Sanctum on total antioxidant capacity levels in saliva of children with caries - A clinical study.

Despite great achievements in oral health of populations globally, problem still remain in many communities all over world, particularly among under privileged groups in the developing countries and dental caries is one of that. Saliva has many functions in oral cavity and is the first line of defense against dental caries. Oxidative stress may play an important role in the onset and development of several inflammatory oral pathologies and dental caries may also be included, suggesting that total antioxidant status may be of importance in determining the progression caries. Supplementation of antioxidants acts as scavengers of free radicals and prevents the progression and occurrence of disease. Ocimum Sanctum medically proven good source of antioxidant and it is abundantly available, easily accessible economically feasible. Objectives: To evaluate the total antioxidant levels in saliva of caries active children before and after using Ocimum Sanctum leaves Materials and Method Fifty caries active children aged between 8-14 year were selected for study. Base line saliva was collected and After 10 minutes the children were asked to chew Ocimum Sanctum leaves with 5ml of water in the mouth, rinse for 5-7minutes and expectorate .After 30 minutes saliva was collected. Each sample was analyzed for total antioxidant capacity using Spectro photometer. Results: Total antioxidant capacity of saliva increased with caries active children. and greater drop in total antioxidant capacity of saliva after chewing Ocimum Sanctum leaves (p <0.001). Conclusion: Antioxidant properties of Ocimum sanctum can be considered as safe, effective and economic alternate option for preventing caries.