OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of herbal mouthwash containing the pericarp extract of Carcinia mangostana L on volatile sulfur compound (VSC) levels, plaque index (PI) and papillary bleeding index (PBI) in gingivitis subjects and the recurrence of these parameters after periodontal treatment.

METHODS

Sixty subjects who were diagnosed as having mild or moderate chronic gingivitis were randomly distributed into herbal or placebo mouthwash groups. On day 1, all parameters were recorded. Subjects rinsed with the assigned mouthwash and VSC was measured at 30 min and 3 h post-rinsing. For the following 2 weeks, subjects practiced their usual oral hygiene and rinsed with the assigned mouthwash twice daily after tooth brushing. On day 15, parameters were recorded. In the 4-week washout period that followed, subjects received scaling and polishing. After another baseline examination, they were re-randomized into the herbal or placebo group and rinsed with mouthwash for 2 weeks. All parameters were re-evaluated on day 15.

RESULTS

All parameters were significantly different compared to baseline in both groups at 30 min, 3 h and day 15 (p < 0.05). When compared between groups, VSC was significantly different at day 15 (p < 0.05). After scaling, poloshing and rinsing with mouthwash for 2 weeks, PI and PBI were significantly different compared to baseline (p < 0.05) while VSC was not (p>> 0.05). When compared between groups, VSC was significantly different (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Herbal mouthwash containing the pericarp extract of G. mangostana may be used as an adjunct in treating oral malodor.