Uji Aktivitas Antibakteri Ekstrak Daun Kecombrang (Etlingera elatior) Terhadap Streptococcus mutans

Abstract

Kecombrang (Etlingera elatior) is one of native herbs of Indonesia which has been used traditionally to treat certain diseases or to be used as an antibacterial agent. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of kecombrang leaf axtract as an antibacterial against Streptococcus mutans. This research is an experimental research with complete by randomized design. The sample was extracted by maceration method using ethanol 95% as solvent. Antimicrobial activity of the extract was tested by agar diffusion method with following concentration 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%. Amoxicillin was used as positive control and ethanol 95% as a negative control. Observed parameter is the formation of inhibitory zones at each petri dish with difference concentration of extract. The results showed that kecombrang leaves can inhibit the growth of Streptococus mutans bacteria. The largest inhibition zone was presented by 100% extract concentration i.e 4,18 mm. LSD test showed that the extract could significantly inhibit Streptococcus mutans at the concentrations of 80% and 100%. But it was observed as lower then amoxicillin effect.