HERBAL MEDICINE IN DENTISTRY: PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

The treatment of inflammatory diseases of the oral mucosa and inflammatory-dystrophic diseases of the periodontal tissues is a major concern in modern dentistry. The use of herbal medicines is one of the most promising areas of pharmacotherapy, employed both as standalone treatments and as part of comprehensive therapeutic regimens. Currently, nearly 50% of medications in the global pharmacotherapeutic arsenal are derived directly from medicinal plant materials. The high interest in herbal remedies stems from several key factors, including their natural origin, complex structure, pharmacological versatility, cost-effectiveness, and their applicability in treating a wide range of diseases. The development of modern herbal medicine is considered a priority in public health, aimed at preventing acute and chronic diseases and improving quality of life. At the same time, evidence-based approaches to medicinal plants are rooted in the principles of "phytonics," which emphasize the standardized production of herbal medicines at all stages. The aim of thus study is to review the literature on the use of herbal medicines in dental practice. The current range of phytopreparations available on the pharmaceutical market in Ukraine includes both well-established herbal products and new preparations that have undergone experimental testing and now require evidence-based clinical validation. Conclusion. Phytotherapy in dental practice presents a promising approach due to the polytropic effects of herbal medicines. Future research must adhere to the principles of scientific rigor to ensure the effectiveness and safety of these treatments.