Evaluating the Analgesic, Hemostatic, and Antimicrobial Potential of a Novel Herbal Formulation for Dental Use

Abstract

Background: Research has explored the individual effects of phytochemicals in dentistry. Our aim was to investigate the synergistic effect these compounds have on pulpal pain, gingival bleeding, and oral microbial populations.

Methods: A proprietary formulation consisting of tannic acid, caryophyllene, curcumin, berberine, myrcene, lignin, catechin, quercetin, gallic acid, thymol, gamma-terpinene, humulene, limonene, and thymoquinone was selected for testing. The antimicrobial effect of the solution was tested using the disc diffusion method on plaque samples cultured on tryptic soy and blood agar. The hemostatic effect of the solution was evaluated by applying it to bleeding gingival tissues during the scaling procedure and recording the time until the cessation of free-flowing blood. The analgesic effect was measured through the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) before and after topical application of the solution to the affected tooth. Time until self-reported reduction in pain was also noted.

Results: The mean zone of inhibition of the solution on tryptic soy agar and blood agar was 20 mm and 13 mm, compared to 17 mm and 15 mm of azithromycin. Colonies of Candida, Streptococci, and Staphylococci were identified and confirmed from the culture, showing susceptibility to the solution. The mean time until complete hemostasis was 5.8 ± 0.74 seconds. The mean pain score before application of the solution was 68 ± 11.4, and after application was 22±12.6, with a P-value of <0.01. The mean time for self-reported pain reduction by patients was 38 seconds.

Conclusion: The promising results from this pilot study suggest significant therapeutic efficacy, and future in-depth investigations are recommended to fully explore the potential of this novel herbal dental formulation.

Keywords: caries; gingivitis; herbal medicine; oral health; periodontitis; phytomedicine; pulpitis; tannic acid; thymol; thymoquinone.

Figure 1. Disc diffusion testing on (A) blood agar and (B) tryptic soy agar

Discs labeled as A: positive control (azithromycin), B: Dentizin™, C: negative control (distilled water).

Figure 2. Hemostatic effect of Dentizin™ on gingival bleeding

(A) Bleeding gingival tissues during the scaling procedure of a periodontally diseased patient; (B) cessation of bleeding after five seconds of application.