Effect of Sidr Honey and Moringa Oleifera on Chemotherapy-induced Oral Complications: A Histological and Histomorphometrical Study in a Rat Model

Chemotherapy-induced oral complications significantly affect patient quality of life. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent, being particularly associated with mucosal toxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the histological and Histomorphometrical effects of Sidr honey and Moringa oleifera on chemotherapy-induced oral mucosal damage in a rat model. Eighteen male albino rats were divided into three groups: control, 5-FU only, and 5-FU combined with Moringa oleifera and Sidr honey. Tongue tissues were harvested at 14 and 28 days for histological examination and histomorphometric analysis using H&E staining and ImageJ software, with statistical analysis performed via one-way ANOVA and paired t-tests (p<0.05). Results indicated that the 5-FU-only group exhibited progressive epithelial thinning, loss of rete pegs, and increased inflammatory infiltration, while the group receiving Moringa oleifera and Sidr honey showed significant epithelial regeneration, including increased thickness, intact keratinized surfaces, and partial restoration of rete pegs. Statistically significant differences in epithelial thickness were observed across all groups at both time points (p<0.001). Within-group analysis indicated improvements in both the control and treatment groups, whereas a decline was noted in the 5-FU-only group over time. These findings suggest that Moringa oleifera and Sidr honey possess protective and restorative properties against 5-FU-induced lingual mucosal damage, enhancing epithelial regeneration and reducing inflammation. Future research should focus on clinical trials to validate their therapeutic potential in human patients, explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of their protective action.