Herbal Mouthwash Research Articles

Evaluation of the Effect of an Experimental Herbal versus Fluoridated Mouthwash on Frictional Resistance and Surface Roughness between Orthodontic Brackets and Two Types of Archwire: In Vitro Study

Introduction: The present study aimed to evaluate an experimental herbal mouthwash, as compared to sodium fluoride mouthwash on the frictional resistance and surface roughness between brackets and two rectangular archwire types. Methods: A total of 60 premolar׳s brackets engaged with 0.019×0.025 archwires made of stainless steel and nickel-titanium alloys were used in this study. The samples were assigned into three groups, each group contained ten stainless steel archwires-brackets and ten nickel titanium archwires-brackets combination. Thereafter, these samples were immersed in herbal mouthwash, sodium fluoride mouthwash (study groups) and artificial saliva (control group) for 90 minutes. Universal testing machine was used to test the friction resistance in the three groups. Atomic force and scanning electron microscopes were used to evaluate the surface roughness of wires and bracket surface topography, respectively. Results: The samples immersed in sodium fluoride mouthwash illustrated the highest mean friction resistance and mean surface roughness, followed by herbal mouthwash and the least was for artificial saliva. Conclusion: The 90-minute immersion in herbal mouthwash did not exert any significant effect on frictional resistance or surface roughness among orthodontic brackets and archwires made of stainless steel and nickel titanium. Based on the results, herbal mouthwash may be prescribed as a non-destructive prophylactic agent on materials evaluated in the present study for the orthodontic patient.

Effects of the Ethanolic Extracts of Guava Leaves, Licorice Roots and Cloves on the Cariogenic Properties of Streptococcus mutans

Introduction: Streptococcus mutans is a major causative pathogen of dental caries. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the ethanolic extracts of Psidium guajava, Glycyrrhiza glabra and Syzygium aromaticum against cariogenic properties of Streptococcus mutans. These medicinal plants have been used traditionally as the ingredients in the herbal mouthwash for the management of dental caries. Methods: The 95% ethanolic extracts of these medicinal plants were prepared and their phytochemical contents were analyzed by using thin layer chromatography-densitometry. Antibacterial activities of the extracts against S. mutans were evaluated according to broth dilution method. The effects of the extracts against cariogenic properties of S. mutans, which are surface adherence, biofilm formation and acid production, were also investigated. Results: The biological active constituents, quercetin, glycyrrhizic acid and eugenol, were found in P. guajava, G. glabra and S. aromaticum, respectively. The three extracts possessed anti-bacterial activity against S. mutans with the MICs of 1.562, 0.195 and 1.562 mg/mL, respectively. The extracts at every concentration tested (at lower than their MICs) significantly inhibited cariogenic properties of S. mutans, which included inhibitions against surface adherence, biofilm formation and acid production. Conclusion: The ethanolic extracts of guava leaves, licorice roots and cloves produced anti-bacterial and anti-cariogenic activities against S. mutans. These plant extracts thus can potentially be developed as a product for the prevention of dental caries in the near future.

TOXICITY TEST OF THE MIXED MOUTHWASH OF MAULI BANANA STEM AND BASIL LEAF AGAINST FIBROBLAST CELL STUDY IN VITRO

Background: Mauli banana stem and basil leaf are herbal plants which can be used as an herbal mouthwash. People in South Kalimantan often use mauli banana stem to accelerate wound healing because of its antibacterial activity. Basil leaf are proven to inhibit bacterial growth. Mauli banana stem has a bitter taste, so to minimize that bitter taste, basil leaf can be used as a mixture. Basil leaf give fresh and aromatic effect. Extract of mauli banana stem is not toxic against fibroblast cell BHK-21 with 25% concentrate, but there is no research about the toxicity of a mixed mouthwash of mauli banana stem and basil leaf against fibroblast cell BHK-21 yet. Purpose: To analyze IC 50 after treatment with a mixed mouthwash of mauli banana stem and basil leaf into the fibroblast cell BHK-21. Method: True experimental using the posttest only with control group design which consisted of 10 treatment groups with several concentrations. Those were 31,25 μg/mL, 62,5 μg/mL, 125 μg/mL, 250 μg/mL, 500 μg/mL, 1000 μg/mL, 2000 μg/mL and 4000 μg/mL. The toxicity test used MTT Assay as a method. This research was formed by 2 stages, which were preparation of fibroblast cell BHK-21 and the toxicity test. The cell viability counted with Freshney formula. Result: The result showed that the IC 50 was 2183,43 μg/mL. Conclusion: The mixed mouthwash of mauli banana stem and basil leaf is not toxic against fibroblast cell BHK-21 because IC 50 is 2183,43 μg/mL.

COMPARISON OF INHIBITORY ACTIVITY OF KELAKAI LEAF EXTRACT AND 0.2% Chlorhexidine Gluconate AGAINST Streptococcus sanguinis ATCC® 10556™

Background: Gingivitis is an early periodontal disease that occurs due to host response and dental plaque. Streptococcus sanguinis is pioneer of dental plaque colonization in oral cavity. Gingivitis treatment use 0,2% Chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash, but long-term use causes side effects, so an alternative herbal mouthwash which has minimal side effects is needed. Kelakai leaf ethanol extract contains antibacterial compound, such as flavonoid, alkaloid, tannin and steroid, which can be herbal-based mouthwash as an alternative of 0,2% Chlorhexidine gluconate. Purpose : It was to compare the inhibitory zone of kelakai leaf ethanol extract and 0,2% Chlorhexidine gluconate against S. sanguinis. Materials and methods : This study was true experimental research and post-test only with control group design, that used 5 treatment groups with 4 replications of kelakai leaf ethanol extract, that were 25%, 50%, 75%, 100% concentrations and 0,2% Chlorhexidine gluconate against S.sanguinis with 20 total samples. All groups incubated for 24 hours at 37 o C, then it measured the diameter of inhibition zone using calliper. Result: One Way ANOVA and Post Hoc LSD tests showed significant difference between all groups after given with kelakai leaf ethanol extract and 0,2% Chlorhexidine gluconate. Kelakai leaf ethanol extract 25%, 50%, 75%, 100% concentrations and 0,2% Chlorhexidine gluconate has an average inhibition zone, which were 9,00 mm, 11,20 mm, 13,67 mm, 16,32 mm, and 18,12 mm against S.sanguinis. Conclusion: Kelakai leaf ethanol extract 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% concentrations has antibacterial activity against S.sanguinis, but not as strong as 0,2% Chlorhexidine gluconate.

Evaluation of Herbal Mouthwashes Containing Zataria Multiflora Boiss, Frankincense and Combination Therapy on Patients with Gingivitis: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled, Clinical Trial.

Background: Dental plaques as adhesive microbial aggregates on tooth surfaces are considered the first stage of tooth decay as well as gingivitis. Accordingly, the effect of different antimicrobial mouthwashes on removing dental plaques and preventing their formation has been evaluated in various studies. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of herbal mouthwashes containing hydro-alcoholic extract of Zataria multiflora (ZM), Frankincense (FR), and a combination of both (ZM+FR) and compare it with chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash in subjects with gingivitis. Materials and Methods: In this randomized, controlled, clinical trial a total of 140 patients with gingivitis were divided into four groups including CHX (control group), ZM, FR, and ZM+FR groups. Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and gingival bleeding index (GBI) were measured in days 1, 14, and 21. Results: All three herbal types of mouthwash significantly improved plaque, gingivitis, and gingival bleeding throughout days 14 to 21 (P<0.001). There was no difference between herbal mouthwash with CHX groups. CHX mouthwash showed the most side effects (54.3%), while ZM mouthwash showed the least side effects and the highest consumer satisfaction (5.7% and 94%, respectively). Conclusion: All of the herbal mouthwashes can be good candidates for controlling gingivitis. Comparing with CHX mouthwash, herbal mouthwashes have lower side effects and negligible alcohol content. Among the herbal mouthwashes, ZM outperforms FR and FR+ZM due to its lower side effects and higher levels of patients’ satisfaction.

Evaluation of Herbal Mouthwashes Containing Zataria Multiflora Boiss, Frankincense and Combination Therapy on Patients with Gingivitis: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled, Clinical Trial

Background: Dental plaques as adhesive microbial aggregates on tooth surfaces are considered the first stage of tooth decay as well as gingivitis. Accordingly, the effect of different antimicrobial mouthwashes on removing dental plaques and preventing their formation has been evaluated in various studies. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of herbal mouthwashes containing hydro-alcoholic extract of Zataria multiflora (ZM), Frankincense (FR), and a combination of both (ZM+FR) and compare it with chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash in subjects with gingivitis. Materials and Methods: In this randomized, controlled, clinical trial a total of 140 patients with gingivitis were divided into four groups including CHX (control group), ZM, FR, and ZM+FR groups. Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and gingival bleeding index (GBI) were measured in days 1, 14, and 21. Results: All three herbal types of mouthwash significantly improved plaque, gingivitis, and gingival bleeding throughout days 14 to 21 (P&lt;0.001). There was no difference between herbal mouthwash with CHX groups. CHX mouthwash showed the most side effects (54.3%), while ZM mouthwash showed the least side effects and the highest consumer satisfaction (5.7% and 94%, respectively). Conclusion: All of the herbal mouthwashes can be good candidates for controlling gingivitis. Comparing with CHX mouthwash, herbal mouthwashes have lower side effects and negligible alcohol content. Among the herbal mouthwashes, ZM outperforms FR and FR+ZM due to its lower side effects and higher levels of patients’ satisfaction. [GMJ.2019;8:e1366]

Gingival Inflammatory Indices and Dental Stain Index after Using Aloe Vera-Green Tea Mouthwash, Matrica Mouthwash, or 0.2% Chlorhexidine Mouthwash Compared with Placebo in Patients with Gingival Inflammation

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of composition of aloe vera-green tea, matrica, and chlorhexidine on gingival inflammatory indices and dental stain index. Materials &amp; Methods: In this double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial, anti-inflammatory, anti-plaque formation, and dental staining effects of two herbal mouthwashes, including aloe vera-green tea and matrica in comparison with chlorhexidine in 60 patients with plaque induced gingivitis referring to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, School of Dentistry were evaluated. The indices evaluated in this study were plaque index (Silness and Loe), gingival index (Loe and Silness), bleeding on probing index (Ainamo and Bay) and dental stain index (Lobene stain index). They were evaluated on the first day of using mouthwashes and two weeks later. The obtained data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22. One-way ANOVA, Tukey post hoc, and paired t and Chi-square tests (α=0.05) were used as appropriate. Results: There was no significant difference between the four groups in terms of the mean values of plaque index, gingival index, BOP index, and stain index before the application of mouthwash. However, after mouthwash application, the mean values of indices were significantly different between the four groups. Aloe vera-green tea and chlorhexidine mouthwashes reduced plaque index, gingival index, and bleeding on probing index significantly and there was no significant difference between these two mouthwashes (P&gt;0.05). The effect of matrica mouthwash on plaque index and gingival index was significantly lower than aloe vera-green tea and chlorhexidine (P&lt;0.05). The mean reduction in BOP index was not significantly different between the aloe vera-green tea, chlorhexidine, and matrica groups. Regarding dental stain index, both herbal mouthwashes caused significantly lower dental stain in comparison with chlorhexidine (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The results of the present study show that aloe vera-green tea mouthwash may be an effective mouthwash owing to its antiplaque and anti-inflammatory properties and may be an ideal substitute for chlorhexidine. Clinical Trial: The clinical trial code: IR.MUI.REC.1395.3.573

An In-vitro Assessment of the Physical and Chemical Properties of Toothbrush Bristle Following Decontamination by Three Different Methods: A Pilot Study.

BackgroundToothbrushes are the most commonly used mechanical plaque control methods, and they are said to harbor microorganisms if not stored properly following usage.ObjectiveAn assessment of the influence of a decontaminating agent (sterile water (control)/chlorhexidine mouthwash/herbal mouthwash) on the properties of toothbrush bristles following storage for 24 hrs by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).MethodologyThe study involves a total of 24 slim soft toothbrushes (six samples per group) with different decontaminating agents: Group 1: Vented container, Group 2: Sterile water, Group 3: 0.2% Chlorhexidine mouthwash, and Group 4: Herbal mouthwash. The toothbrushes were stored in their respective containers for 24 hours, following which, snippets of toothbrush bristles were collected and tested for the evaluation of wear using SEM and the biochemical alteration occurring in the bristles was assessed using FTIR.Results and conclusionThe Group 2 and Group 3 samples showed significant wear (Score 2) under SEM evaluation, and FTIR spectroscopy evaluation revealed that changes occur in the fingerprint region of infrared spectroscopy owing to chemical bond alteration following decontamination. Considering the benefits we acquire in terms of microbial load reduction, decontamination is recommended, though it might necessitate frequent changing of toothbrushes.

The efficacy of asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida oleo-gum resin) versus chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash on dental plaque and gingivitis: A randomized double-blind controlled trial

IntroductionMicrobial plaque is known to be the most important causative agent of periodontal disease. Since plaque control by mechanical methods is not enough to keep the gingival health in many people, attention has been brought to medicinal treatments, including mouthwashes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of asafoetida versus chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) mouthwash. MethodsThis study was a double-blind randomized active-controlled clinical trial. One hundred and twenty six patients were randomly assigned into two groups of asafoetida and CHG mouthwashes. They were advised to use 15 ml of their prescribed mouthwash twice daily for a period of 7 days. Before enrollment and then at the end of the 7th day of intervention, the plaque index (PI) and modified gingival index (MGI) were measured. Moreover, safety measures were monitored during this period. ResultsAfter the intervention period, improvement of MGI mean difference was observed in both of the asafoetida and CHG groups (0.9 ± 0.7 vs. 0.4 ± 0.5, respectively). Also, there was an improvement regarding PI mean difference in both of the asafoetida and CHG groups (1.8 ± 0.6 vs. 0.9 ± 0.6, respectively). However, mean differences of MGI and PI in the asafoetida group showed a significant reduction, compared to the CHG group (P < 0.0001). It should be noted that no serious side effects were observed. ConclusionConsidering the results, it seems that asafoetida mouthwash can be recommended as an efficient herbal mouthwash for improving the indices of gingival health. However, future studies on larger cohorts with longer intervention periods are necessitated.

A Preliminary Standardisation and a Phase 2 Efficacy Trial on Healthy Volunteers of a Polyherbal Formulation Against Hiora-K Herbal Mouthwash

A Preliminary Standardisation and a Phase 2 Efficacy Trial on Healthy Volunteers of a Polyherbal Formulation Against Hiora-K Herbal Mouthwash

Evaluation and Comparison of Two Commercially Available Mouthrinses in Reducing Aerolised Bacteria During Ultrasonic Scaling When Used as a Preprocedural Rinse.

Objective:To compare and evaluate the effect of 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate and commercially available herbal mouthrinse in reducing aerolized bacteria when used as a preprocedural mouth rinse.Materials and Methods:A total of 45 patients were selected and randomly divided into three groups. Group I consisted of 15 patients who rinsed with distilled water for 60 seconds. Group II consisted of 15 patients who rinsed with 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash (Clohex®) for 60 seconds and Group III consisted of 15 patients who rinsed with herbal mouthwash (Hiora®) for 60 seconds. Aerosols produced during the oral prophylaxis procedure were collected on blood agar plates by exposing the plates at patient’s and dentist’s chest area and the exposed plates were incubated at 37°c aerobically for 48 hours. The number of colony forming units (CFU) in aerosol and CFU in the saliva were counted and statistically analyzed. Results:Reduction in the bacterial load using 0.2% of chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash is found to be significant at both patient’s and dentist’s chest area in aerosol produced during scaling followed by herbal mouthrinse.Conclusion:The results of the present study clearly indicate that pre-procedural rinsing with 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate was significantly more effective than herbal mouthrinse in reducing the aerolized bacteria during ultrasonic scaling. Therefore a pre-procedural rinse can significantly reduce the risk for cross contamination.

The effect of aloe vera and tea tree oil mouthwashes on the oral health of school children.

To evaluate the effect of two herbal mouthwashes containing aloe vera and tea tree oil, on the oral health of school children. A double-blinded, placebo-controlled prospective interventional study was conducted in school children aged 8-14years. The study participants were divided into four groups depending upon the mouthwash used: Group 1 (aloe vera), Group 2 (chlorhexidine), Group 3 (tea tree oil) and Group 4 (placebo). The variables studied included plaque index, gingival index and salivary Streptococcus mutans counts, which were recorded at baseline, 4weeks after supervised mouth rinse and after 2weeks of stopping the mouth rinse. A total of 89 boys and 63 girls were included. A statistically significant decrease in all variables was noted after the use of both the herbal preparations at the end of 4weeks which was maintained after the 2-week washout period (p < 0.001). The difference in variables between groups using aloe vera, Tea tree oil and chlorhexidine, was not statistically significant. The use of aloe vera and tea tree oil mouthwashes can decrease plaque, gingivitis and S. mutans in the oral cavity in children. The activity of these two agents is comparable to that of chlorhexidine.

Clinical, in vitro and phytochemical, studies of Scrophularia striata mouthwash on chronic periodontitis disease

Ethnopharmacological relevanceChronic periodontitis is an inflammatory process of the oral cavity that is caused by different reasons. Streptococcus mutans bacteria is the main cause of the disease. Scrophularia striata in Iranian traditional medicine is used to heal inflammation of gum and mouth. Also, In vitro anti-bacterial effect of S. striata in S. mutans have been demonstrated. Aim of the studyClinical, in vitro and chemical constituent studies of S. striata on chronic periodontitis disease. Materials and methodsThis study is a randomized clinical trial that was performed in Dental College, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. Fifty patients with chronic periodontitis (20–50 years old) were selected and the study was approved and registered in Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials as number IRCT2015081323468N1 prior to the experiment. The 50 patients were divided into two groups. One group used herbal mouthwash that was made from hydro alcoholic extract of S. striata and another group used Irsha mouthwash (Iranian form of Listerine mouthwash). Patients were followed up after two weeks and four weeks of using mouthwash for assessment of plaque index (PI), pocket depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP) and counting Streptococcus mutans. The mouthwash was standardized according to gallic acid, quercetin and apigenin reference using the RP-HPLC method. The total phenolic and flavonoids contents were also determined spectrophotometerically. ResultsS. striata in the short term, improve plaque index, pocket depth and bleeding on probing but the number of Streptococcus mutans changed significantly in the long term and is more potent in comparison to Irsha mouthwash. The mouthwash was standardized according to gallic acid, quercetin and apigenin standard (3, 24, 11 μg, respectively). The total phenolic and flavonoid content of mouthwash were 120.7 μg GAE/100 cc and 78.6 μg QE/100 cc respectively. ConclusionsS. striata mouthwash is effective in the treatment of chronic periodontitis disease and is more potent comparing the Iranian Irsha mouthwash.

Benefits of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) pulp oil‐based mouthwash on oral health

The purpose of this study was to conduct phytochemical analysis of sea buckthorn pulp oil and to evaluate the antimicrobial, anti-biofilm and antioxidant activities of its mouthwash form. Fatty acid composition of the sea buckthorn pulp oil was determined by GC-MS analysis, which revealed that, mono-unsaturated fatty acid, palmitoleic acid and saturated fatty acid, palmitic acid, were the major constituents. The antimicrobial and the anti-biofilm capacities of sea buckthorn pulp oil mouthwash form were evaluated against Streptococcus gordonii, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Actinomyces viscosus and Candida albicans, according to the European Norms, and the Biofilm Ring Test® , respectively. These activities were then compared with those of chlorhexidine and herbal mouthwashes. The sea buckthorn-based mouthwash was bactericidal against S. gordonii and P. gingivalis, bacteriostatic against A. viscosus and showed no antifungal effect. Regardless of the strains used, complete inhibition of biofilm formation was achieved. The antioxidant activity of this experimental mouthwash was also assessed by DPPH and NBT assays. Sea buckthorn mouthwash showed anti-biofilm activities against select single and multiple oral bacterial species. In this study, a mouthwash derived from sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) pulp oil has been experimented, for the first time, in order to overcome the problem of a large number of available synthetic mouthwashes which have side effects on teeth, gums and mucous membranes. This mouthwash seemed to be a suitable alternative for a preventive agent for periodontal inflammation.

An Herbal Alternative to Control Nosocomial Pathogens in Aerosols and Splatter During Ultrasonic Scaling

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of herbal mouthwash (Himalaya Hiora Regular) against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumanni during ultrasonic scaling. Material and Methods: Group B (n=25) received herbal mouthwash and Group A (n=25) received 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthwash respectively as a preprocedural rinse. The aerosols produced by the ultrasonic unit were collected on MeReSa and Leeds Acinetobacter Agar plates. The experimental setting included eight different locations covering all areas of the operatory. The plates exposed to aerosols for a period of 30 minutes were incubated aerobically at 37 o C for 48hrs and the colony forming units (CFU) were statistically analyzed. Results: Herbal mouthwash (Himalaya Hiora Regular) showed a significant reduction in mean CFU of MRSA compared to 0.12% chlorhexidine. While herbal mouthwash was on par with 0.12% chlorhexidine in the reduction of A. baumannii . Conclusion: Herbal mouthwash was found to be more effective against MRSA than 0.12% Chlorhexidine mouthwash as a pre-procedural rinse. Both herbal mouthwash and chlorhexidine mouthwash was found to be effective against A. baumannii . Herbal mouthwash may be a safe alternative to chlorhexidine against nosocomial pathogens like MRSA and A. baumannii .

Self-made herbal mouthwash training in elderly community as an empowerment program for improving oral hygiene

Aims: The aim of this study is to improve the knowledge and skills of the elderly how to make herbal mouthwash. Subjects and Methods: The method used in this program was a method of counseling and direct reenactment with Individual and group approach using combination method, which was the demonstration of how to make herbal mouthwash. The statistical analysis for this study was using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 17 software (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois). Results: The percentage of the mean value of the achievement of elderly cadre about the knowledge of material in herbal mouthwash making was 100%, and the percentage of the mean value of the achievement of elderly cadre about the ability of how to make mouthwash herbal was 93.61%. Conclusions: Based on the results of empowerment, this program was an effective medium for the elderly to be able to maintain and monitor the health of their teeth and mouth.

Comparative evaluation of the effect of pomegranate peel extract and chlorhexidine 0.2% mouthwash on salivary pH in children between 6 and 8 years of age: An in vivo study

Background: Dental caries is chronic infectious disease affected by diet and cariogenic microorganisms. Streptococcus mutans is associated with the initiation of caries, and lactobacilli are associated with disease progression. Chlorhexidine is used as a gold standard mouthwash, but it has some side effects such as unpleasant taste and staining on long-term use. Hence, there is a need for alternative to chlorhexidine. Herbal mouthwashes are more excellent option to chemical mouthwashes for prolonged use. Pomegranate is one of them with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of pomegranate peel extract and chlorhexidine mouthwash on salivary pH in 6–8 years of age children. Materials and Methods: Thirty patients between the age group of 6–8 years fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. Children were divided into two groups randomly. Fifteen children were given chlorhexidine mouthwash and 15 were given pomegranate peel extract and asked to rinse for it 2 min. Saliva was collected before the mouth rinse, 10, 30, and 60 min after the mouthrinse. The pH of each collection was noted using pH meter. Statistical Analysis: Statistical analysis was done using the ANOVA test and unpaired t-test. Results: Both the mouthwashes show significant rise in the salivary pH in shortened time. Conclusion: Pomegranate peel extract mouth rinse can be used as an accompaniment to prevent caries and to maintain good oral hygiene in children.

Efficacy of Ocimum sanctum, Aloe vera and chlorhexidine mouthwash on gingivitis: A randomized controlled comparative clinical study.

Background:The medicinal plants are widely used for curing various diseases in day-to-day practice. Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) is one such popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine, which is widely used in the treatment of several systemic diseases because of its antimicrobial property. Aloe vera is also widely known for its medicinal uses in wound healing and its anti-inflammatory properties. However, studies documenting the effect of O. sanctum and A. vera in treating gingivitis are rare.Aim:The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of two herbal mouthwashes in comparison with chlorhexidine mouthwash on gingivitis.Materials and Methods:A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial, wherein sixty patients were randomly allocated into three study groups. (1) O. sanctum mouthwash (n = 20) (2) A. vera mouthwash (n = 20) and (3) Chlorhexidine mouthwash (n = 20). All groups were treated with scaling and asked to rinse with respective mouthwashes twice daily for 1 month. Clinical parameters such as plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and sulcus bleeding index (BI) were recorded at baseline, after 15 days and after 30 days, respectively.Results:Results of the study showed that O. sanctum, A. vera and chlorhexidine are equally effective in reducing plaque, gingival, and bleeding indices at 30-day interval. However, no significant reductions in PI, GI and BI in 15-day interval in group 1 and group 2 when compared with chlorhexidine were evident.Conclusion:The results in the present study indicate that O. sanctum and A. vera may prove to be as effective as chlorhexidine mouthwash in its ability in reducing all the three indices by reducing plaque accumulation, gingival inflammation and bleeding when used in the long-term follow-up.

Comparative Evaluation of Triphala, Aloe vera, and Chlorhexidine Mouthwash on Gingivitis: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

Aim:The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of two herbal mouthwashes in comparison with Chlorhexidine mouthwash on gingivitis.Materials and Methods:This is a triple-blind randomized controlled clinical trial, where in 60 patients were randomly allocated into three study groups: Triphala mouthwash (Group A), Aloe vera mouthwash (Group B), and Chlorhexidine mouthwash (Group C). All groups were treated with scaling and asked to rinse with respective mouthwashes twice daily for 1 month. Clinical parameters such as plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and bleeding index (BI) were recorded at baseline, 15 days, and 30 days, respectively.Results:Our results suggested that Triphala group effectively demonstrated a higher reduction in GI and BI index scores compared to A. vera group (P ≤ 0.005) and the effect is equivocal to the reduction seen with Chlorhexidine group. However, no statistically significant difference was observed between the mouthwashes in reduction of PI scores (P > 0.005).Conclusion:The results of our study evidenced Triphala to be superior in the reduction of plaque, gingival inflammation, and bleeding compared to that of A. vera. However, the results of our study also indicated that Triphala was as effective as chlorhexidine mouthwash in its ability in reducing plaque accumulation, gingival inflammation, and bleeding. Furthermore, Triphala is relatively free of side effects compared to that of chlorhexidine.

Efficacy of Carica papaya seed extract on periodontitis: A clinico-microbiological study

Background and Objectives: Human breath is composed of highly complex substances with numerous variable odors, which can generate unpleasant situations such as halitosis. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and microbiological efficacy of Carica papaya seed extract on clinical parameters, such as gingival index (GI), papillary bleeding index (PBI), probing pocket depth (PPD), and on oral malodor causing organisms, respectively. Materials and Methods: Thirty subjects with oral malodor score ≥3 were selected for the study. Subjects were divided into three groups: Group A––periodontally healthy subjects, Group B––gingivitis subjects, and Group C––periodontitis subjects with PPD ≥5mm. Ultrasonic scaling was performed for all the patients at the baseline and mouthwash was prescribed for 14 days. The clinical parameters such as plaque index (PI), GI, PBI, and PPD were recorded at baseline and 14th day (T14). Benzoyl-dl-arginine-B-naphthylamide (BANA) test and breath checker readings were taken at 0, 14th, and 21st days. Results: At T14, GI, PBI, PPD, malodor scores, and BANA test results showed a statistically significant reduction (P < 0.001) in all the three groups. Regarding the outcome variables, no significant intergroup differences were observed. Conclusion: Herbal mouthwash of dried seeds of C. papaya as an adjunct to scaling provides more favorable approach in the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis, periodontitis and also oral malodor in all the groups. However, long-term studies with more number of subjects are required to evaluate the efficacy of this herbal mouthwash as an adjunct to scaling.