Assessment and Comparison of anti inflammatory activity of Bacopa monnieri mouthwash with chlorhexidene A clinico- biochemical study

Oral microbiome plays a major role in the initiation of gingival pathology. Dental biofilm comprises of diverse microbial community which are embedded in tooth surfaces as dental plaque. Elimination of plaque has been the hallmark of prevention of the gingival and periodontal infections.Harald Loe and colleagues demonstrated the direct relationship between plaque levels and the development of gingivitis. Plaque removal can reverse the inflammatory changes.Chemical plaque control adjunctive to mechanical plaque control is shown to be more effective.

In our study, we aimed to introduce a newer plaque control herbal mouthwash. Herbal medicinehave been applied in dentistry for a long time to inhibit micro organisms, reduce inflammation, soothe irritation, and relieve pain.

Bacopa monnieri has been used as a reputed drug in theIndian traditional ayurvedic system for centuries. The medicinal herb with important phytopharmaceuticals has been popularly known as "Brahmi",is a perennial creeping plant found throughout India in wet, damp and marshy areas.

In recent years, B. monnieri has been extensively studied for its bioactive constituents,responsible for memory enhancing effect, and its other diverse useful effects as it possesses many pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, gastrointestinal, anti-anxiety, anti-depression, anti-stress, antimicrobial, properties. Bacopa monnieri has been used in medical field in the treatment ofcognitive functions,Alzheimer’s disease, depression, enhance memory development, learning and concentration and to provide relief to patients with anxiety or epileptic disorders.

With this background in our present study, we have tried using Bacopa monnierimouthwash in gingivitis patients. Years of documented research have established chlorhexidine mouthwash is stable, effective in preventing and controlling plaque formation and inhibiting gingivitis. Hence in the current study we are comparing the anti-inflammatory effect of Bacopa monnieri mouthwash with chlorhexidine .