Antibacterial Effect of Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) Peel Extract in Preventing Biofilm Formation

Abstract

The routine and long term use of chemicals to maintain oral and dental health have the potency to result in the emergence of side effects; therefore another strategy is needed as an alternative such as using antimicrobial agents extracted from plants. The purpose of this study is to review the effectiveness of lime (Citrus aurantifolia) peel extract as an antibacterial in preventing biofilm formation. Biofilm is a component consisting of bacteria in a self-produced polymeric matrix, attached to an inert surface, alive, and can survive because of its ability to capture nutrients and withstand adverse environmental conditions. Lime peel contains flavonoids which are the largest group of polyphenol compounds that can work as antioxidants and antibacterial by denaturing bacterial cell proteins and damaging bacterial cells. Flavonoids can also inhibit glucosyltransferase (GTF) activity of Streptococcus mutans to prevent biofilm formation. Lime peel extract inhibits the formation of the activity of the enzyme Streptococcus mutans. As a conclusion lime peel extract contains compounds with therapeutic potential and has the effect of inhibiting the formation of the activity of the enzyme Streptococcus mutans so that it can be used to inhibit the formation of biofilms. Keywords: antibacterial, biofilm, Citrus aurantifolia