Preliminary Evaluation of the Antimicrobial, Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Cytotoxic Activities of Taraxacum officinale Leaf Extract: An in vitro Study

Background: Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) is known for its bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Oral inflammatory lesions, such as oral lichen planus and aphthous stomatitis, are associated with microbial imbalance, oxidative stress, and inflammation. This study evaluates the potential of T. officinale leaf extract as a natural alternative for treating these lesions. Objectives: To assess the antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities of T. officinale leaf extract, and to explore its potential as a therapeutic agent for oral inflammatory lesions. Materials and Methods: Ethanol was used to extract bioactive compounds from dried T. officinale leaves. Antibacterial activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli using agar diffusion. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through the DPPH free radical scavenging assay. Anti-inflammatory effects were assessed by measuring protein denaturation inhibition. Cytotoxicity was tested using zebrafish embryos, with survival rates and developmental changes monitored. Results: The leaf extract exhibited significant antimicrobial activity, inhibiting both S. aureus and E. coli, especially at higher concentrations. Antioxidant activity was notable, with near-complete free radical scavenging at higher doses. Anti-inflammatory effects were concentration-dependent, with maximum inhibition of protein denaturation at 100 μg/mL. Cytotoxicity studies revealed dose-dependent toxicity, with reduced survival in zebrafish embryos at 40 μL/mL and higher concentrations. Conclusion: T. officinale leaf extract demonstrates strong antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, suggesting its potential as a treatment for oral inflammatory lesions. However, its dose-dependent toxicity highlights the need for further research to determine safe and effective therapeutic doses.