Phytomedicine and its Indispensable Role in Plaque Induced Diseases

Abstract

Medicinal plants have been used since centuries to prevent and treat various diseases in folk medicine due to their therapeutic effects. Herbs and their extracts have been found to possess potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial actions that reduce the periodontal inflammation.With progressing science we always want the positive results in less time, thereforeallopathic medications has gained its popularity but  their prolonged use could result in side effects and increased antimicrobial resistance. These limitations encouraged the search of an alternative natural plant product forthe treatment of plaque induced diseases. Literature search revealed few clinical trials on evaluation of clinical effectiveness of phytochemicals or herbsin the treatment of periodontal diseases. By this review attempt has been made to enlighten thefuture researchers about mechanism of action and therapeutic potential of various herbs such as neem , tulsi, curcumin, aloe veraetc in the reduction of dental plaque , plaque induced gingivitis and periodontitis.