The effectiveness of propolis on gingivitis: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Oral Health Research
• Periodontology
• Natural Product Therapeutics

Background:

• Gingivitis is a common oral inflammatory condition.
• Propolis, a natural resinous substance, has demonstrated antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Evaluating natural products for oral hygiene is crucial for developing effective preventative strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of a 2% typified propolis rinse in managing induced gingivitis.
• To compare the effectiveness of propolis rinse against a positive control rinse (sodium fluoride and cetylpyridinium chloride).
• To utilize a co-twin study design for a controlled clinical trial.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial involving 21 twin pairs (42 participants).
• Gingivitis was induced over 21 days with participants rinsing twice daily with either 2% propolis or a positive control rinse.
• Gingivitis was quantified using the Papillary Bleeding Score (PBS) and digital gum imaging (G-parameter) at baseline and after the intervention period.

Main Results:

• The study included 38 participants aged 13-22 years, with balanced baseline gingivitis measures.
• No significant difference was observed in average Papillary Bleeding Score (PBS) between the propolis rinse and positive control groups.
• Similarly, the G-parameter measurements showed no significant difference between the two rinse groups after 21 days.

Conclusions:

• A 2% typified propolis rinse demonstrated equivalent efficacy to a positive control rinse in preventing gingivitis progression during a 21-day period of no oral hygiene.
• Propolis rinse can be considered a viable alternative for gingivitis management in conjunction with other oral care practices.
• The findings support the potential of propolis as a natural therapeutic agent in oral health.