Evaluation of tulasi extract mouthwash in the management of oral candidiasis

Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of mouthwash containing tulasi (Ocimum sanctum) extract on oral candidiasis. Methodology: Minimum inhibitory concentration of tulasi extract was determined, and Tulasi mouthwash was prepared using 4% of the extract. A total of 90 patients with clinically diagnosed oral candidiasis were randomly allocated to chlorhexidine and tulasi groups. Preand post-oral symptoms such as burning sensation and altered taste were recorded using a VAS scale of 0–10. Patients were asked to rinse 10 mL of mouthwash thrice daily for 2–3 min for 7 days after food. Smear from oral candidal lesions before and after the treatment was taken, and colony-forming units (CFUs) were calculated. Results: The patients with oral candidiasis showed significant reduction in burning sensation and improvement in taste perception. CFU showed a significant reduction in both groups preand post-treatment. Tulasi showed statistically significant improvements over chlorhexidine. Conclusion: As tulasi was found to be more effective against oral candidiasis, it can be considered as viable substitute for synthetic drugs.