Matricaria Recutita Linn. In the Prevention and Control of Radio-Induced Oral Mucositis

Abstract

This study investigated the use of Matricaria recutita Linn. (chamomile) for the prevention and control of radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis (OM). Methods: This clinical, experimental, single-blinded trial included 22 patients divided into three groups, as follows: Group-I (n = 7): 3% chamomile gel (CHAM) used from baseline until the end of radiotherapy; Group-II (n = 7): 1% chlorhexidine gel used from the onset until OM regression; Group-III (n = 8): CHAM used from the onset until OM regression. Data were analyzed descriptively and using the Kruskal-Wallis test (p ≤ 0.05). Results: No significant differences were noted between groups (p > 0.05) with respect to OM prevention and control. This study reported the effect of chamomile in decreasing OM severity and alleviating symptoms. Its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and healing activities mainly result from essential oils, flavonoids, and phenols. Conclusion: CHAM did not prevent the onset of OM, but effectively reduced its severity.