Therapeutic Outcomes of Aloe vera Gel Compared with Triamcinolone Acetonide in Minor Aphthous Stomatitis

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a common oral mucosal condition characterized by painful, recurrent ulcers that affect quality of life. Topical corticosteroids such as triamcinolone acetonide are the standard treatment due to their anti-inflammatory effects, but concerns about side effects and patient preference have prompted interest in alternative therapies. Aloe vera, known for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, has emerged as a potential natural option. However, comparative evidence with standard treatments remains limited, necessitating further evaluation of its clinical efficacy in RAS management.

This study aims to show the clinical efficacy of Aloe vera as compared with triamcinolone acetonide in the management of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS).

This comparative study was conducted on 60 patients (17-40 years) with RAS, who were randomly divided into two groups: Group A ( n = 30) on triamcinolone acetonide paste, and Group B ( n = 30) on Aloe vera gel. Both were applied at 6-hour intervals daily for 7 days under blinded conditions. Pain was self-assessed daily using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (0-10), and healing was evaluated on Day 7 with the WHO Oral Mucositis Grading Scale. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 21.0, applying Student's t -test for parametric and Mann-Whitney U test for non-parametric variables.

Sixty participants completed the trial. Males predominated in Group A, females in Group B. Both groups showed significant improvement by Day 7 with no post-treatment scores above 2. Males in Group A showed faster mid-phase improvement (Days 3-6, P = 0.026-0.002), while females demonstrated similar progress across groups. Overall, Aloe vera achieved comparable efficacy to triamcinolone, though steroid therapy offered quicker relief in males.

Both triamcinolone acetonide and Aloe vera were effective in managing minor RAS. Triamcinolone provided faster recovery in males, whereas Aloe vera was equally effective overall.

Aloe vera offers a safe, natural alternative for patients unable or unwilling to use corticosteroids, while Triamcinolone may be preferable when faster symptom relief is desired.