NCT07535229

Frankincense and Herbal Extracts for Plaque-Induced Gingivitis: A Double-Blind RCT

The Efficiency of Frankincense and Other Extracts in the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Plaque Biofilm Induced Gingivitis: a Double Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial.

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 90 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Oman Dental College · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 30 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Accepted

Summary

Frankincense, a natural resin obtained from trees of the Boswellia genus, has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. It is well-documented for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects, making it a candidate for therapeutic applications beyond its conventional uses. Despite its known pharmacological benefits, scientific evidence supporting the use of frankincense in oral health care, particularly in the management of periodontal diseases, remains limited. Gingivitis is one of the most common forms of gum disease, characterized by inflammation of the gingival tissues due to dental biofilm (plaque) accumulation. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, leading to irreversible damage to the supporting structures of the teeth. Standard treatment approaches typically involve mechanical plaque control and the use of fluoride-based oral health care products, which are effective but may not be well-tolerated or preferred by all individuals. This study aims to explore the potential of frankincense-based oral care products as a natural alternative or adjunct to conventional oral products in the management of gingivitis. By comparing the clinical outcomes of patients using a frankincense-containing oral health care product with those using a commercially available oral care product, the study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of frankincense in reducing gingival inflammation, dental biofilm (plaque) accumulation, and associated symptoms. Thus, improve oral health mainly by reducing gum inflammation. The findings could provide insights into the viability of incorporating natural products like frankincense into routine oral hygiene practice.

Detailed description

The Randomized Controlled Clinical study with parallel design would be used to assess and compare the efficacy of Frankinscence and coconut oil-based, Frankinscence and Thyme essence-based, and Chlorhexidine mouthwash on gingivitis. Subjects with gingivitis with age group of 18-40 years will be selected for the study as the target population. Subjects who meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria will be selected and screened for the plaque and gingival status before including them in the study. They will be randomly divided into three groups. Group 1: 30 participants (Frankinscenceand coconut oil-based mouthwash) Group 2: 30 subjects (Frankinscence and Thyme essence-based mouthwash) Group 3: 30 subjects (Chlorhexidine mouthwash)

Conditions

• Gingivitis

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	Frankinscence and coconut Oil based mouthwash	This intervention consists of Frankinscence oil and coconut oil and other herbal extracts. Frankinscence is supposed to have antiinflammatory activity and has been studied for its application in medical sciences for arthritis. Similarly organic virgin and extra virgin coconut oil has shown some inhibitory activity against streptococcus mutans. As per our review of literature and to the best of our knowledge no one has tried a combination of these 2 oils alongwith addition of some other oils to improve palability.
OTHER	Frankinscence and Thyme essence/ water based mouthwash	This intervention consists of Frankinscence essence and Thyme essence and other herbal extracts. Frankinscence is supposed to have antiinflammatory activity and similarly Thyme is widely used in the pharmaceutical field, mainly due to its germicidal and antiseptic properties of phenolic components. . As per our review of literature and to the best of our knowledge no one has tried a combination of these 2 essences alongwith addition of some other oils to improve palability.
DRUG	Chlorhexidine (0.2%)	Chlorhexidine 0.2% mouthwash is considered the gold standard in dentistry for chemical plaque control and oral health care. It is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. Its key advantage is substantivity, allowing it to bind to oral tissues and release slowly, providing prolonged action for up to 12 hours. This makes it highly effective in reducing plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation, especially in cases where mechanical cleaning is inadequate. It is commonly used in managing gingivitis, periodontitis, and in pre- and post-operative care to reduce infection risk. Despite its effectiveness, it may cause tooth staining and temporary taste alteration, so it is usually recommended for short-term use under professional guidance. Overall, its proven efficacy and reliability make it an essential adjunct in oral hygiene.

Timeline

• Start date: 2026-04-19
• Primary completion: 2026-09-30
• Completion: 2026-12-31
• First posted: 2026-04-17
• Last updated: 2026-04-17

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Oman