Herbal mouthwashes for oral health care-A paradigm shift

Herbs have been used since centuries to prevent and control various diseases. Being low in cost, safe, and easily available, herbal medicines are staging a comeback globally, owing to their antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic properties. In dentistry, herbal extracts have been widely used in tooth cleaning agents and mouthrinses. The present study is aimed at reviewing various extracts of herbal products and their effects on dental health. From this review study, it is evidenced that Aloe vera, Neem, Clove Oil, Castor Oil, and Peppermint showed better results than conventional mouthwashes in dental plaque and gingival inflammation reductions. However, preclinical and clinical trials are needed to gauge biocompatibility and safety before herbal medicines are often recommended conclusively for oral care.