Abstract

The invitro phytochemical analysis and antibacterial activities of ethanolic and aqueous crude extracts of four Nigerian chewing sticks (Pseudocedrela kotschyi, Massularia acuminate, Xanthoxylum zanthoxyloides, and Anogeissus schimperi). were investigated. Results of this study showed chewing sticks contained antibacterial agents but the concentration and composition of the active substances differed amongst the plants. Flavonoid and tannin were present in all the plant extracts while alkaloids were absent. The ethanolic crude extracts of the chewing sticks had a greater zone of inhibition (antimicrobial activities) against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas putida, Bacillus subtilis and Klebsiella spp in comparison with the aqueous extracts.Massularia acuminate exhibited a better antibacterial activity and thus made it more suitable for dental care.