Identification of bioactive compounds in Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A. Chev. leaf extract and its antimicrobial activity against cariogenic microorganisms.

Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A. Chev. (CF) is an ornamental plant known for its therapeutic properties, particularly its antimicrobial activity. This study attempted to identify bioactive compounds in the CF leaf extract and assess their antibacterial and antifungal efficacy against Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans, which are key contributors to early childhood caries (ECC). CF leaves were extracted using the maceration technique with 70% methanol. Phytochemical and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) screening were performed to identify secondary metabolites and chemical compounds. S. mutans and C. albicans were isolated from supragingival plaque samples of paediatric patients with severe ECC. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined through serial dilution and ELISA spectrophotometry. Phytochemical screening verified the existence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, saponins, triterpenoids, and alkaloids. GC-MS identified 17 chemical compounds. The MIC was 6.25% for S. mutans and 1.56% for C. albicans. The extract exhibited significant antimicrobial activity, with a stronger inhibitory effect against C. albicans than S. mutans. The CF leaf extract demonstrates antibacterial and antifungal potential and may serve as a cariogenic antimicrobial agent. Further toxicological studies are needed to confirm its safety for clinical applications.