Journal of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences

SI FAWALARA: A Sustainable Facial Wash Formulated with Sea Grape (Caulerpa sp.) and Soapnut (Sapindus rarak) Extracts

2026-07-21T20:25:55+07:00

Synthetic surfactants, such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), are widely used in facial wash formulations but may contribute to environmental pollution and skin irritation. The development of biosurfactant-based facial wash products using natural ingredients represents a promising strategy to support sustainable cosmetics. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a facial wash containing Sea Grape (Caulerpa sp.) extract and Soapnut (Sapindus rarak) extract, designated as Facial Wash with Sea Grape and Soapnut Extract (SI FAWALARA). Three formulations containing 5%, 15%, and 25% soapnut extract were prepared while maintaining sea grape extract at 1.5%. The formulations were evaluated for organoleptic characteristics, pH, foam stability, total plate count, antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli using the agar well diffusion method, and skin irritation in mice. Data were analyzed using parametric or non-parametric statistical tests at a 95% confidence level. All formulations complied with liquid soap quality requirements, exhibited acceptable physicochemical properties, demonstrated strong antibacterial activity against both test bacteria, and produced no signs of erythema or edema during the irritation test. The formulation with the highest soapnut extract concentration showed the greatest antibacterial activity. These findings demonstrate that SI FAWALARA is a safe and effective biosurfactant-based facial wash with the potential to reduce reliance on synthetic surfactants, thereby supporting the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly cosmetic products.

Simultaneous Detection of Bovine and Porcine DNA in Meat Products using Duplex Real-Time PCR Method for Halal Authentication

2026-07-27T12:58:18+07:00

Assuring the halal status of meat based food products requires analytical methods that are sensitive and specific and can detect cross contamination. This study aims to develop and validate a SYBR Green based duplex real-time PCR method for the simultaneous detection of bovine (Bos taurus) and porcine (Sus scrofa domesticus) DNA in meatball products. DNA was isolated using the Geneaid DNA Isolation Kit, analyzed qualitatively by electrophoresis, and quantitatively by Nanodrop spectrophotometer. The annealing temperature was optimized at 50–60°C. The specificity test showed a Tm of 75–76°C for the Beef primer and 81.5°C for the porcine primer, with no cross amplification or dimers in the NTC. The duplex method detected both targets simultaneously with an LOD of 0.0005 ng/ µL. The standard curve had a slope of 2.79, efficiency of 128%, and R² of 0.932. Repeatability testing showed an average RSD of 2.829% (meeting the RSD ≤ 25% requirement). Analysis of meatball samples from the market showed bovine DNA without porcine DNA contamination. These results prove that the duplex real-time PCR method has high sensitivity and specificity for halal product verification.

Subchronic Oral Toxicity of the Ethanol Extract of Crinum asiaticum L. Leaves in Male Rattus norvegicus: Biochemical and Histopathological Evaluation

2026-07-27T13:05:31+07:00

Ethanol extract of Crinum asiaticum L. leaves (CAL) has been reported to possess pharmacological activities and to be suitable for development into a standardised herbal medicine. However, its safety profile remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of administering an ethanol extract of CAL leaves at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kgBW on liver, heart, and kidney functions in male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus). The test was conducted by repeated oral administration of the ethanol extract over 60 days. The parameters observed included blood biochemistry using a Mindray® BA-88A photometer, gross examination of the heart, and histopathological examination of the liver, heart, and kidney. The conclusion of this study is that repeated oral administration of the ethanol extract of Crinum asiaticum leaves for 60 days did not produce marked alterations in several routine biochemical parameters at the lower doses (200 and 400 mg/kgBW). However, dose-related microscopic and macroscopic changes were observed, particularly at 800 mg/kgBW, and early signs of organ alteration were also noted at intermediate dose levels. Therefore, the extract may be considered to show limited tolerability at lower doses under the present experimental conditions, whereas higher doses indicate potential toxicity to the liver, heart, and kidneys.

Innovative Gel Formulation Incorporating Vernonia amygdalina Leaf Extract Nanoparticles: Physical Evaluation and Moisturizing Potential

2026-07-27T14:41:37+07:00

Vernonia amygdalina exhibits relatively weak antioxidant activity with an IC₅₀value greater than 200 ppm. This study aimed to evaluate the formulation of Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract nanoparticle (NEDA) to enhance the absorption and stability of its active compounds in a gel preparation intended for use as a moisturizer. The NEDA was formulated using chitosan and NaTPP with the following compositions: F1 (1:10:1), F2 (1:15:1), and F3 (1:20:1). The concentrations of NEDA incorporated into the gel formulations were prepared in four variations: G0 (0%), G2 (5%), G2 (10%), and G3 (15%) using nanoparticles from the optimized F3 formula, with Carbopol employed as the gelling agent. The evaluation conducted on the formulations included particle size, particle morphology, organoleptic properties, homogeneity, viscosity, pH, spreadability, adhesiveness, moisturizing effect, and stability. The result showed that the particle size of NEDA F1, F2, F3 were 343±26.87 nm, 121.5±4.94 nm, and 81.5±0.70 nm, respectively. Transmision Electron Microscopy (TEM) revealed that the nanopartcile exhibited spherical morphology. The antioxidant activity evaluated using the DPPH method showed the IC₅₀of 194±0.86 ppm for the crude extract (EDA), whereas NEDA F3 demonstrated a stronger antioxidant activity with an IC₅₀ value of 124.5±0.67 ppm. The organoleptic testing indicated that the NEDA gel formulations G0, G1, and G2 were clear, while G3 appeared slightly cloudy; all formulas were homogeneous. The viscosity testing showed that the G0-G3 formulations ranged between 35000-49000 cP. The pH values of the gels were within the normal skin pH range (4,1-5,1). The spreadability and adhesiveness tests revealed values ranging from 4,5-5,2 cm an 3,7-4,8 seconds, respectively. The moisturizing effect evaluation performed on G2 demonstrated an increase in skin moisture from 40% to 47% after 2 hours of application. In conclusion, the NEDA gel formula G2 was determined to be the most optimal. No significant differences were observed in the physical evaluation parameters during 28 days of storage (P=0,220), indicating good formulation stability.

Processing Matters: Iron Content and Hedonic Acceptance of Chickpea Milk as a Potential Beverage for Anemia Prevention

2026-07-27T19:03:01+07:00

Iron deficiency anemia is a significant health issue among adolescent girls, particularly in Indonesia, and represents a key concern within midwifery practice due to its long-term implications for future maternal and neonatal health. This study employed an experimental laboratory-based design to evaluate the iron content and sensory acceptance of chickpea-based milk (Chilmilk) processed under different drying temperature–time combinations. Three formulations were prepared: F1 (80°C, 8 hours), F2 (70°C, 9 hours), and F3 (60°C, 10 hours). Iron content was analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS), while sensory evaluation was conducted using a 5-point hedonic test involving 29 untrained panelists. The results showed that F1 had the highest iron content (5.27 mg/35 g), while F3 had the lowest (1.94 mg/35 g). Sensory evaluation indicated similar acceptance across all formulations, with no significant differences in taste, aroma, color, texture, or overall liking. These findings suggest that F1 represents the most optimal formulation in terms of iron content while maintaining acceptable sensory characteristics. Chilmilk shows potential as a functional food that may support midwifery-led promotive and preventive strategies targeting anemia among adolescent girls. Future studies may explore flavor modifications and evaluate the effects of regular consumption on iron status and anemia outcomes.

α-Glucosidase Inhibition-Guided Fractionation of Kalincung (Uncaria gambir Roxb. By-Product) using Diaion HP-20 Resin

2026-07-27T19:30:17+07:00

Kalincung is a semi-solid by-product generated during the traditional processing of Uncaria gambir Roxb. and may undergo spontaneous fermentation during post-processing storage. However, it remains underexplored despite its potential as a polyphenol-rich resource. This study compared methanolic extracts of kalincung and dried gambir leaves and evaluated α-glucosidase inhibition-guided fractionation using Diaion HP-20 resin. An assessment of phytochemical constituents was carried out, including the determination of total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and vanillin–HCl–reactive flavan-3-ol equivalent profile (VAE; expressed as catechin equivalents, CAE), followed by antioxidant assessment using the DPPH assay (IC₅₀) and α-glucosidase inhibition (IC₅₀). Kalincung exhibited higher TPC (40.10 ± 0.07% GAE) and TFC (35.92 ± 1.12% RAE) than leaves (30.94 ± 0.71% GAE and 21.30 ± 0.71% RAE; p < 0.05), while leaves showed higher VAE values (27.46 ± 0.06% CAE) than kalincung (9.84 ± 0.36% CAE; p < 0.05), reflecting differences in vanillin-reactive flavan-3-ol units rather than absolute proanthocyanidin content. Kalincung demonstrated strong DPPH scavenging activity (IC₅₀ = 9.13 ± 0.05 µg/mL) and α-glucosidase inhibition (IC₅₀ = 32.32 ± 1.20 µg/mL), comparable to leaves. Solvent fractionation enriched bioactivity, with the butanol fraction showing improved α-glucosidase inhibition. Diaion HP-20 fractionation yielded a selected active fraction with increased VAE compared with the crude kalincung extract (48.33 ± 0.39% CAE), accompanied by enhanced functional potency (DPPH IC₅₀ = 8.03 ± 0.07 µg/mL; α-glucosidase IC₅₀ = 17.07 ± 0.42 µg/mL), showing activity within the same order of magnitude as (+)-catechin and showing lower IC₅₀ than acarbose under the present in vitro assay conditions. Taken together, these findings position kalincung as a largely overlooked yet functionally relevant source of polar polyphenolic constituents. Its α-glucosidase inhibitory effect, supported by antioxidant performance, suggests meaningful prospects for early-stage functional evaluation.

The Effect of Total Flavonoid Content of Butterfly Pea Flower Kombucha on Reducing Serum Total Cholesterol Levels in vitro and in vivo in Rats

2026-07-29T12:47:26+07:00

High-cholesterol foods cause metabolic disorders characterized by high cholesterol levels. Butterfly Pea Flower Kombucha, which contains anthocyanins (flavonoids), was obtained by fermenting a mixture of fresh butterfly pea flowers with a SCOBY (Symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast). This study aimed to determine the effect of butterfly pea flower kombucha in reducing total cholesterol. The study began with the production of butterfly pea flower kombucha from 30%, 40%, and 50% fresh butterfly pea flowers fermented with a SCOBY. Total flavonoid levels were determined using visible spectrophotometry with a wavelength of 439.00 nm. Cholesterol levels were determined in vivo by feeding fermented tea to groups of white rats (C-, C+, S1, S2, and S3) for 10 days, after which they were fed lard for 14 days. The results showed that butterfly pea flower kombucha of 30%, 40%, and 50% had a total flavonoid content of 55.75 + 0.656, 84.59 + 1.912, and 154.38 + 0.476 mgQE/100mL. The sample and control could reduce cholesterol by an average of 11.83 + 0.94%, 21.14 + 1.58%, 31.36 + 0.98%, and 32.85 + 1.17%. Statistical tests showed the effect of butterfly pea flower kombucha which can lower cholesterol. This study shows that consuming butterfly pea flower kombucha can reduce cholesterol.

Integrated in vivo Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant-Related, and Preliminary Acute Oral Toxicity Responses to Gracilaria gracilis Extract

2026-08-28T18:12:48+07:00

Inflammation and oxidative stress reinforce one another and are important targets in the development of marine-derived pharmacological candidates. This study evaluated the in vivo anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-related effects of an ethanol extract of BRIN-authenticated Gracilaria gracilis and included a separate preliminary single-dose oral toxicity assessment. Dried seaweed (300 g) was macerated with 96% ethanol in three 24-h cycles at a 1:3 (w/v) ratio, producing 24.5 g extract (8.17%, w/w). Qualitative screening detected flavonoids, triterpenoids, steroids, alkaloids, and glycosides. Untargeted LC-HRMS profiling of the same extract generated 325 ion features and 51 candidate annotations distributed across five broad metabolite classes. In the efficacy arm, 25 male Wistar rats received vehicle, diclofenac sodium (10 mg/kg), or extract at 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg (n=5/group) before carrageenan induction. Four-hour paw-response inhibition was 53.7%, 69.1%, and 73.6%, respectively, compared with 76.9% for diclofenac. Serum thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) declined dose-dependently from 90.3±13.5 µM MDA equivalents in the vehicle group to 60.2±8.4, 44.8±5.8, and 37.9±4.5 µM. In the preliminary toxicity arm, male Wistar rats received vehicle or a single oral dose of 300, 2000, or 5000 mg/kg and were followed for 14 days. Group-level day-15 data showed increased AST and urea at the upper doses, accompanied by mild descriptive liver and kidney alterations. Because clinical-observation logs, diagnostic-kit details, and standardized blinded histopathological scoring were incomplete, these findings are interpreted as preliminary toxicity signals and cannot establish an LD50, a formal hazard category, or safety up to 5000 mg/kg. The results provide exploratory in vivo proof of concept for G. gracilis while identifying the need for quantitative standardization, mechanism-focused studies, and confirmatory safety evaluation.

Formulation Optimization of Diphenhydramine HCl Lotion using Palm Fat–Water Ratios Modeled by Simplex Lattice Design

2026-08-28T19:59:39+07:00

Palm fat is a natural base derived from a mixture of hydrogenated palm kernel oil and hydrogenated palm kernel stearin, containing triglycerides composed of glycerol and fatty acids. It has potential as an emollient base due to its stability, non-irritant properties, and compatibility with various active substances. However, its application in lotion formulations has not been widely explored. This study aimed to determine the effect of the palm fat-to-water ratio on the physical characteristics and to obtain the optimum formulation using the Simplex Lattice Design (SLD) method for Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride lotion. Three formulations with varying proportions of palm fat and water (20–35% and 57.71–72.71%, respectively) were evaluated through physical characterization (organoleptic, homogeneity, and emulsion type), and response testing (pH, viscosity, spreadability, stability, and drug release flux). The optimum formulation was determined using Design-Expert 13.0.0 based on the desirability value. The results showed that the composition of palm fat and water had a significant impact on the physical characteristics and response variables. The optimum formula consisted of 32.285% palm fat and 53.863% distilled water, with a pH of 4.866; spreadability of 7 cm; viscosity of 34,969 mPas; release flux of 353.374 μg/cm²·min½; and a stability value of 0.753, resulting in a desirability value of 0.929. In conclusion, the composition of palm fat and water strongly influences the physical properties and drug release performance of Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride lotion, and the Simplex Lattice Design effectively determines the optimal formulation.

Modulation of IL-6 and VEGF by Oral and Topical Curcuma longa Extract in an Excisional Wound Model of Diabetic Wistar Rats

2026-08-28T20:07:13+07:00

Diabetic wound healing is characterized by persistent inflammation and impaired angiogenesis. Curcuma longa contains curcuminoids, including curcumin, but the comparative effects of oral, topical, and combined administration remain incompletely defined. This post-test-only experimental study included 30 male Wistar rats allocated by block randomization into six groups (n=5): a healthy, non-diabetic, non-wounded physiological baseline group; a diabetic excisional wound plus hydrogel-base control; a povidone-iodine control; oral crude ethanolic Curcuma longa extract (100 mg/kg body weight); topical 10% extract hydrogel (200 mg/day); and combined oral-topical treatment. Groups G2-G6 underwent streptozotocin induction and excisional wounding. Treatments were administered once daily for six days. Serum IL-6 and skin-tissue VEGF were measured by ELISA on day 7. Serum IL-6 did not differ significantly among groups (Kruskal-Wallis, p=0.117). Skin-tissue VEGF differed significantly (one-way ANOVA, p=0.032), and the combined group had higher VEGF than the diabetic hydrogel-base control (Tukey, p=0.013); all other pairwise comparisons were non-significant. Combined oral and topical Curcuma longa extract administration was associated with higher wound-tissue VEGF, whereas serum IL-6 did not differ significantly. The findings suggest a possible pro-angiogenic effect, but require confirmation using quantitative wound-closure analysis, histology, local inflammatory markers, dose-response assessment, and longer follow-up.

Global Research Landscape on Lactobacillus-Based Interventions for Hypercholesterolemia: A Bibliometric and Systematic Review of Scientific Evidence and Therapeutic Efficacy

2026-08-28T20:34:47+07:00

The rising prevalence of hypercholesterolemia has increased interest in Lactobacillus-based probiotic interventions as complementary approaches for lipid management. This study synthesizes clinical evidence and research trends to evaluate the efficacy of Lactobacillus supplementation in improving cholesterol profiles. A systematic review was performed following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered in OSF with methodological quality assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) Checklist for RCTs, including randomized controlled trials published between 2015 and 2025. Concurrently, a bibliometric analysis of Scopus and PubMed metadata, conducted using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer, characterized global publication trends, leading authors, and thematic structures. The bibliometric analysis demonstrated rapid scientific growth, notable regional clustering in East and Southeast Asia, and evolving research themes related to gut microbiota and metabolic regulation. Seven randomized controlled trials involving 357 adults with dyslipidemia consistently reported reductions in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and total cholesterol for several Lactobacillus strains, particularly L. paracasei and L. plantarum. No significant effects were identified for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) or triglycerides. Mechanistic evidence indicates the involvement of bile salt hydrolase activity, modulation of apolipoproteins, and anti-inflammatory pathways. In summary, this integrated analysis demonstrates that Lactobacillus supplementation is associated with LDL-C reduction ranging from approximately 2.16 to 28.2 mg/dL, with a favorable safety profile, and represents a promising adjunctive strategy for hypercholesterolemia. The results also highlight significant opportunities to strengthen global research collaboration.

Optimization and Characterization of Serum of Red Onion Skin Extract and Antioxidant Activity

2026-08-28T20:48:36+07:00

Red onion (Allium cepa L.) skin is enriched with flavonoids, steroids, and phenolic compounds, which possess the potential to promote hair growth. The present investigation sought to optimize gelling agent concentrations within hair serum formulations incorporating red onion peel extract (Allium cepa L.) for its antioxidant properties. Formula optimization was executed employing the Regular Two-Level Factorial Design methodology utilizing Design Expert® 13 software. Two independent variables were examined: carbomer 940 concentration ranging from 0.1–0.3% and sodium alginate concentration ranging from 0.5–1%. Through factorial analysis of physical properties, formula 2 emerged as optimal, containing carbomer 940 at 0.3% and sodium alginate at 1%. The resultant formulation demonstrated the following physicochemical characteristics: pH of 6.14±0.01, viscosity of 854.35±12.87 cP, spreadability of 7.26±0.70 cm, adhesiveness of 8.02±0.19 cm, and additional adhesion metrics of 8.69±0.27 cm, 4.17±0.23 s, and 3.35±0.26 s. Accelerated stability assessment via cycling protocols revealed preservation of organoleptic integrity, absence of phase separation or syneresis, and constancy in pH and viscosity parameters. The optimal red onion peel extract serum formulation demonstrated an IC50 value of 84.00 ppm, reflecting substantial antioxidant capacity and considerable promise for further pharmaceutical development as an antioxidant agent.

Hypoxia-Conditioned MSC-Derived Exosomes Mitigate Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasiform Dermatitis by Enhancing FOXP3 Expression and Normalizing Keratin-10 Expression

2026-07-29T12:12:20+07:00

This study evaluated whether hypoxia-conditioned mesenchymal stem cell–derived exosomes (EH-MSC) mitigate imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasiform dermatitis by enhancing immune regulation and restoring epidermal differentiation. Male Wistar rats (n=32) were used: 30 rats were randomized into five experimental groups (n=6 per group)—healthy control (G1), IMQ + saline (G2), IMQ + methotrexate (G3), IMQ + EH-MSC 100 µL (G4), and IMQ + EH-MSC 200 µL (G5)—and two additional rats were used for model validation. Psoriasiform dermatitis was induced using topical IMQ 5% for 7 days, followed by intradermal treatments (EH-MSC on days 1 and 3 post-validation). EH-MSC exosomes were generated from hypoxia-primed MSC cultures and confirmed by CD63/CD9 markers. Cutaneous FOXP3 and keratin-10 (K10) were quantified by qRT-PCR at the terminal time point. IMQ produced typical psoriasiform plaques and histologic changes. FOXP3 differed significantly among groups (ANOVA p<0.001) and increased dose-dependently with EH-MSC, peaking in G5 (1.84±0.29 pg/mL) versus G2 (0.65±0.33 pg/mL). K10 also differed significantly (p<0.001) and shifted toward healthy levels with EH-MSC, most closely in G5 (1.35±0.71 pg/mL) versus G2 (3.86±0.67 pg/mL). These findings show that EH-MSC treatment was associated with increased FOXP3 expression, suggesting enhanced Treg-associated immunoregulatory activity, and normalization of K10 expression toward healthy control levels.

Assessment of the Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Short-Term Physicochemical Stability of Soul Wedang (Sodang)

2026-08-31T08:48:35+07:00

Sodang is an Indonesian herbal drink composed of lemongrass, ginger, turmeric, lime, palm sugar, and salt. Each constituent is known for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties. However, no studies had previously evaluated the combined activity of these ingredients. This study aimed to determine the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of Sodang, as well as its physicochemical stability during storage. The research consisted of several stages, including concentration of the Sodang extract, moisture content analysis, phytochemical screening, antibacterial testing using the microdilution method, antioxidant testing via the ABTS method, and stability evaluation over a 7-day period. Concentration of 2 Liters of Sodang produced 155 g of thick extract, with a moisture content of 3.98 ± 0.0036%. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, triterpenoids, and polyphenols. The extract did not exhibit antibacterial activity against B. cereus and E. coli (MIC > 128 mg/mL). The antioxidant activity of Sodang, indicated by an IC₅₀ value of 7,976.67 ± 95.70 ppm, was classified as very weak compared to vitamin C (IC₅₀ = 27.42 ± 0.47 ppm). The physicochemical properties of Sodang remained stable through day 7, as evidenced by consistent organoleptic characteristics, pH, viscosity, and TLC profile for flavonoids and triterpenoids.

Antimicrobial Activity of Ethanol Extract of Sungkai Leaves (Peronema canescens Jack) against Bacteria Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Fungus Candida albicans

2026-08-21T07:24:13+07:00

Infectious diseases can be transmitted between individuals and from animals to humans. Infectious diseases are caused by various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi, which can trigger immune responses. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of an ethanolic extract of sungkai leaves (Peronema canescens Jack) against Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans using the paper disc diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) or minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) were determined using the microdilution method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine microbial cell damage following exposure to the extract to determine microbial cell damage due to exposure to test extracts. The disc diffusion assay showed that the sungkai leaf extract exhibited antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. The MIC value of the ethanol extract of sungkai leaves (Peronema canescens Jack) with an MIC of 256 μg/mL and an MBC of 512 μg/mL, against Streptococcus mutans bacteria, whereas the MIC and MBC values against Staphylococcus aureus were 8,192 and 32,768 μg/mL, respectively and the MIC and MFC values against Candida albicans were both 512 μg/mL. SEM observations revealed morphological changes in Streptococcus mutans cells exposed to the ethanolic extract, including cellular deformation, irregular surfaces, and signs of lysis of sungkai leaves (Peronema canescens Jack) against Streptococcus mutans morphological changes appear deformed cells, with irregular surfaces, and indications of lysis. These findings indicate that sungkai leaf (Peronema canescens Jack) ethanol extract exhibits antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans, with varying levels of effectiveness, and causes morphological alterations in S. mutans cells.