Effect of consuming various herbal seeds on salivary pH: A randomized controlled trial

Saliv a plays a crucial role in preventing dental caries by neutralizing acids. This study explored how chewing different herbal seeds affects salivary pH and compared the alteration of salivary pH among different herbal seeds. A triple-blinded, randomized controlled trial involving 60 healthy women was divided into four groups, namely Ajwain, Fennel, Kalonji, or a paraffin wax control. Participants chewed 1.5g of their assigned substance, with salivary pH measured at baseline and 5, 15, and 30 minutes. The results demonstrated a significant increase in salivary pH at all measured intervals for the Ajwain, Fennel, and Kalonji groups (p<0.001), while the control group showed no significant change (p=0.876). The study concluded that these herbal seeds are effective in enhancing salivary pH, and their additional digestive and antimicrobial properties make them a beneficial aid for oral health, particularly after eating or consuming sugary foods.