Propolis versus Chlorhexidine mouthwash for maintenance of gingival health

Propolis, a resinous honeybee product with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties, shows potential in oral care by reducing gingivitis and dental plaque.

To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of Propolis and Chlorhexidine mouthwashes in reducing plaque build-up and gingivitis (gum disease).

Forty-five participants suffering from chronic generalized gingivitis participated in this randomized clinical trial. These participants were randomly allocated to any of the three groups (15 individuals each) via computer-generated randomization:

• Group A (Propolis mouthwash)
• Group B (Chlorhexidine mouthwash)
• Group C (Placebo)

The trial consisted of three 21-day phases with a 15-day washout period in between.

During Phase I, Groups A, B, and C used Propolis 0.2%, Chlorhexidine, and Placebo mouthwash, respectively. Participants were instructed to rinse with their assigned mouthwash twice every day for 1 minute over the 21 days. On the 22nd day, the Plaque Index (PI) and Gingival Index (GI) were reassessed. In Phases II and III, the mouthwashes were swapped as per the Latin square technique.

There were no statistically significant differences in PI and GI among the three groups (p > 0.05) at the start of the trial. One-way ANOVA indicated significant differences in PI and GI between the groups (p < 0.001) By day 21. The Bonferroni post-hoc test revealed a noteworthy reduction in plaque and gingival scores in the Propolis group compared to the Chlorhexidine and placebo groups (p < 0.001).

Propolis mouthwash drastically improved gingival health and reduced plaque, designating its potential as an effective herbal alternative to Chlorhexidine mouthwash.