Propolis 5% herbal mouthwash proves effective in gingivitis study

Propolis, a resin-like substance produced by bees, is a well-known anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal being studied extensively for its potential benefits in gingivitis and periodontitis. Propolis toothpaste has already proven effective in plummeting gingival inflammation in individuals with oral clefts and dental appliances.

This randomized controlled clinical trial under consideration was performed by Shilpa Gunjal et al. which compared the effectiveness of herbal mouthwash containing propolis to chlorhexidine mouthwash in reducing plaque and gingivitis. This study involved 45 Malaysian subjects with chronic generalized gingivitis. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Group A (Propolis 5% mouthwash), Group B (Chlorhexidine 0.12% mouthwash), and Group C (Placebo mouthwash). All the patients were asked to brush their teeth with Colgate toothpaste after the morning meal and after dinner (twice brushing). Gingival health and plaque levels were assessed using the Plaque Index and Gingival Index at the baseline and after 21 days.

The trial was structured in three phases, each lasting 21 days with a 15-day washout period between phases. Initial assessments presented no important differences among the groups. However, by day 21, noteworthy improvements were observed. The propolis group reduced plaque and gingival scores to a greater extent compared to the other two groups.