INTRODUCTION. Elimination of microorganisms from the root canal system is an important consideration in endodontic treatment and hence use of irrigants with adequate antimicrobial and antifungal properties is an enormously essential factor. However, an optimal root canal irrigant remains unidentified within the current scientific literature. Herbal alternatives are garnering increasing interest due to their potential benefits, including biocompatibility, antimicrobial properties, and reduced adverse effects compared to conventional chemical irrigants. AIM. To conduct a comparative evaluation of the antimicrobial efficacy of cranberry extract, sodium hypochlorite (5.25%), and chlorhexidine digluconate (2%) when used as root canal irrigants in vitro against Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans. 

MATERIALS AND METHODS. Based on the irrigating solution used, 24 premolars were divided into 3 groups (8 in each group), Group I - cranberry extract irrigant, Group II - Sodium hypochlorite (5.25%), Group III - Chlorhexidine digluconate (2%). The teeth were sectioned at the cemento-enamel junction, and they were incubated with primary culture of E. faecalis and C. albicans and irrigated using 2 ml of the respective irrigants. Pre and post irrigation microbiological sample collection were done using paper points. 

RESULTS. Sodium hypochlorite as a root canal irrigant has shown highest antimicrobial efficacy against E. faecalis and C. albicans, followed by Chlorhexidine digluconate group, and the least was with Cranberry extract group. CONCLUSIONS. Cranberry extract as a root canal irrigant has shown considerable activity against the root canal pathogens, however, is not as efficacious as sodium hypochlorite or chlorhexidine digluconate.