Extraction of bioactive dental compounds from herbs: A systematic review of applications and efficacy

Objective: This systematic review explores the extraction methods, applications, and efficacy of bioactive compounds derived from herbs for dental applications. With growing interest in natural alternatives for oral health care, this review evaluates the role of herbal compounds in treating dental conditions such as caries, periodontal diseases, and oral pain management. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library using relevant keywords such as “herbal dentistry”, “bioactive dental compounds”, and “natural oral care”. Studies published from 2016 onward that discussed the extraction techniques, bioactive components, and their efficacies in dental applications were included. The review followed PRISMA guidelines to ensure methodological rigor. Results: The review identified several key herbal bioactive compounds, including eugenol (clove), curcumin (turmeric), catechins (green tea), and azadirachtin (neem), with demonstrated antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. Extraction methods varied, with solvent extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and microwave-assisted extraction being the most common techniques. Studies reported significant effectiveness of herbal extracts in reducing dental caries, gingival inflammation, and microbial plaque accumulation, with some demonstrating comparable efficacy to conventional treatments. Conclusion: Herbal bioactive compounds present a promising alternative for dental care due to their natural antimicrobial and therapeutic properties. However, challenges such as standardization of extraction methods, dosage optimization, and regulatory approval need to be addressed. Further clinical trials and meta-analyses are required to validate their long-term efficacy and safety for integration into modern dental practice.