Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Iridoids are a class of secondary metabolites found in various medicinal plants, such as Plantago, Gentiana, Harpagophytum (devil’s claw), and Valeriana. The use of iridoid-containing herbs for oral and gum health, including gingivitis, has a basis primarily in traditional medicine. Herbal remedies using plants like Plantago major (plantain) and Gentiana lutea (gentian) have been applied topically or as mouth rinses in folk practices to soothe inflamed gums and support oral hygiene. This traditional use is often attributed to the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties observed in crude extracts of these plants, actions believed to be partly due to their iridoid content.

However, direct scientific studies investigating purified iridoids or iridoid-rich extracts specifically for gingivitis are limited. Most available research focuses on the general anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects of iridoids in vitro or in animal models, rather than in clinical trials addressing gingivitis in humans. Therefore, while the rationale for their use is plausible and supported by some preclinical data, robust scientific validation in the context of gingivitis treatment is lacking. The evidence rating is 2, reflecting traditional use and plausible mechanisms, but insufficient clinical evidence.

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