Faculty Mentor
Dan Smith, PhD
Faculty Editor
Dan Smith, PhD
Student Editor
Julia Borello
Abstract
Streptococcus mutans are bacteria found in the mouth that are primarily responsible for dental caries (cavity) formation. Previous research has found that the essential oil of turmeric and polyphenols of cocoa inhibit the biofilm formation and growth of S. mutans (Lee et al. 2011; Percival et al. 2006). This project investigates the replication of turmeric and cocoa data with the use of store-bought spices rather than extraction, and expands existing research to include the effect of other spices on the growth and biofilm formation of S. mutans. We found ginger to inhibit the growth of S. mutans, while cocoa and cinnamon inhibit both growth and biofilm formation. Turmeric and cardamom had no effect on growth or biofilm formation.
Recommended Citation
Lauren Lau
(2017)
"The Effect of Common Household Spices on Streptococcus Mutans,"
SUURJ: Seattle University Undergraduate Research Journal: Vol. 1, Article 11.
Available at:
https://scholarworks.seattleu.edu/suurj/vol1/iss1/11