Harnessing Phytotherapy in Periodontal Therapy: Clinical Efficacy, Mechanisms, and Future Directions for Herbal-Based Adjuncts in Treating Periodontitis

ABSTRACT Phytotherapy, or the use of medicinal plants along with herbal preparations, is a rapidly emerging, valuable tool that serves as an adjunct in the management of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the surrounding and supporting tissues of the teeth, which leads to progressive loss of attachment, ultimately resulting in tooth loss if not treated earlier. Often, microbial plaque serves as a trigger for chronic periodontitis, and this plaque shall be removed by mechanical debridement and other antimicrobial agents. However, traditional therapies impose other challenges, such as resistance to certain antibiotics, adverse effects, and compliance issues. In this review article, the context briefs you upon phytotherapy serving as a compelling, natural, and sustainable alternative and adjunct to periodontal mechanical therapy, harnessing the anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and wound-healing properties, which are only inherent to most of the medicinal herbs.