A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial Evaluates the Efficacy of Alternative Herbal Mouthwashes

The removal of dental plaque is the primary step in achieving good oral hygiene. Mechanical plaque removal measures have questionable efficacy in inaccessible areas and proximal aspects of the oral cavity. Out of the several types of mouthwash available, chlorhexidine (CHX) is regarded as the gold standard, but considering its adverse effects, herbal alternatives are being sought after. So, the aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of alternative herbal mouthwashes. In this randomized, double-blind study, 125 selected patients were divided into five groups. Group 1: negative control - distilled water (DW); group 2: positive control - hexidine mouthwash (ICPA, Gujarat, India); group 3: FeelFresh Herbal Mouthcare Gargle (Able Exports, Gujarat, India); group 4: HiOra mouthwash (Himalaya Wellness Company, Bengaluru, India); group 5: Colgate MaxFresh Fresh Tea mouthwash (Colgate-Palmolive, India). Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and microbial count (CFU) were evaluated before and after the intervention. The difference among the three types of herbal mouthwash was statistically non-significant. The lowest PI, GI, and CFU values were obtained in the subjects of group 4. Herbal mouthwashes are a promising alternative and are effective in maintaining oral hygiene.