Miys Ahmed AL Moqbali, Omnia Mahmoud Abdelmoneim, Maather Al Hadrami,
Iman Humaid Al Abri, Mohammad Javed Qureshi*, Alka Ahuja
Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy,
National University of Science and Technology, Muscat, Oman.
*Corresponding Author E-mail: mjaved@nu.edu.om
ABSTRACT:
Maintaining oral cleanliness has been valued since ancient times and continues to be a fundamental aspect of contemporary health practices. Traditionally, herbal rinses have been utilized to reduce microbial populations in the mouth and are known to support oral health by preventing gum bleeding, tooth discoloration, and halitosis. These natural formulations also contribute to managing plaque accumulation and reducing inflammation. The current study focuses on formulating a plant-based mouthwash containing roselle calyx extract and frankincense (Luban) oil to assess its antimicrobial properties. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of bioactive components such as alkaloids, tannins, saponins, flavonoids phenolic compounds with flavonoid and phenolic content measured at 41.67μg/mL and 47.43μg/mL, respectively. A total of seven formulations were prepared with different combination ratios of roselle extract and Luban oil (1:0, 0:1, 1:1, 1:2.1:3, 3:1, and 2:1) together with peppermint and clove oil. All the formulations were evaluated for physicochemical parameters like pH, color, viscosity, foamability and stability studies. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against oral bacteria by the mouth swab technique. The findings suggest that herbal mouthwash demonstrates strong antibacterial activity and holds promise as an alternative to chemical mouthwashes with no or very few side effects.
KEYWORDS: Frankincense oil (Luban), Roselle calyx, Herbal mouthwash, Antimicrobial activity, Mouth swab technique
INTRODUCTION:
Interdental brushing, dental floss, and mechanical or electrical tooth brushing are the most often utilized instruments or techniques for treating supragingival plaque2,3. Chemical therapeutic agents including mouthwashes, sprays, chewing gum, and varnishes are additional methods of controlling plaque and help at home treatment2. But they have some undesirable side effects, like vomiting, diarrhea, and tooth staining. Ideally, it is required that any antimicrobial/antiseptic agents used should be able to modify the oral environment by being specifically effective against the pathogens without altering the normal flora4. Mouthwashes, however, are acknowledged as the most straightforward oral hygiene product5,6. In older and medically impaired people, where maintaining proper oral hygiene may be a significant problem, this may be the primary method of oral cleansing7. The most popular mouthwash among chemical methods is chlorhexidine (CHX), which has been the gold standard in dentistry for roughly thirty years. However, it has some drawbacks, including tooth discoloration, taste disturbance, erosion of the oral mucosa, and unilateral or bilateral parotid swelling8,9. It could cause an inflammatory reaction to soft oral tissue, which restricts the application of Chlorhexidine. The shortcomings of CHX mouthwashes have led to the development of herbal medicines as alternative antiplaque agents in recent years. Herbal medications are regarded as the finest alternative to synthetic antibiotics because of their natural and non-narcotic qualities, low cost, little or minimal harmful side effects, and no environmental impact10. Almost all chemical mouthwashes contain alcohol and fluoride, which may be harmful to human health. Therefore, most herbal mouthwashes are a risk-free option for everyone from toddlers to those with dry mouth or diabetes.
A variety of herbal mouthwashes are formulated using plant-based ingredients known for their ability to fight microbes. Cloves are widely recognized in traditional medicine for supporting dental health due to their germ-fighting antiviral and disinfectant qualities. Peppermint is another common addition, appreciated for its refreshing and cooling effect. Additionally, natural components such as Tulsi, Neem, green tea, clove oil, and cinnamon oil, used either alone or blended, have been scientifically demonstrated to be both effective and non-toxic in managing conditions like gum inflammation, bleeding gums, and tooth decay11. Therefore, the current study aims to develop a polyherbal mouthwash formulated with extracts from the Hibiscus sabdariffa L. calyx (commonly known as Rosella) and essential oil derived from Boswellia sacra (frankincense or Luban). In addition, the formulation also comprises cinnamon oil, clove oil, and peppermint oil, selected for their well-documented antimicrobial properties and proven efficacy in promoting oral health and hygiene.
Hibiscus sabdariffa L., widely referred to as roselle, is a plant species from the Malvaceae family, Originally native to Africa, it has since spread extensively across tropical regions around the globe, particularly throughout parts of South America, Australia, and various Asian nations such as India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand12. Among Asian countries, China and Thailand are currently recognized as the leading producers of Roselle.
Roselle calyces are commonly incorporated into foods, drinks and herbal infusions and have long held a place in the traditional healing practices of various cultures13. Historically, they have been valued for their diuretic, fever-reducing, and blood pressure-lowering effects in regions such as Mexico, Africa, and India14. In countries like Sudan and Egypt, they are traditionally used to lower body temperature, while in Thai herbal medicine, roselle is employed as a gentle laxative and diuretic as well as for its antimicrobial, cholesterol-lowering and antihypertensive properties15. Additionally, methanolic extract from roselle calyces has demonstrated notable antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial strains16. Roselle extract contains a variety of bioactive phytochemicals known for their significant medicinal and nutritional benefits. These natural compounds have been identified as key agents in inhibiting bacterial growth. Numerous studies have confirmed the antibacterial properties of RE against several harmful microorganisms, including Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella flexneri, Salmonella species, Listeria monocytogenes 17.18,19 E. coli, and Bacillus anthracis20. Despite these findings, limited research has been conducted on the use of RE in dentistry, particularly as an antibacterial mouthwash targeting oral pathogens such as Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus.
Boswellia sacra is a small tree reaching up to 5 meters in height, characterized by its papery peeling bark and densely branched structure with foliage concentrated at the tips. Native to the Dhofar region in southern Oman, it is also cultivated in various other regions of the country. The most distinctive feature of B. Sacra is its oleo-gum resin-commonly known as the frankincense of Olibanum21. It is harvested through deep incisions made in the tree trunk. This resin is a valuable source of essential oils. Frankincense holds cultural and historical significance across many societies where it has traditionally been used for its aromatic properties, particularly in religious rituals and for the purification of sacred spaces. In addition, it occupies a prominent role in traditional medicine, having been utilized for the treatment of a wide range of conditions, including skin disorders, gastrointestinal and hepatic issues, and inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis22,23,24 More recently, the bioactive elements of Boswellia trees have been found and described in relation to microbial infection, particularly oral pathogens. and cancer. Frankincense extract and essential oil are frequently employed as fixatives in lotions, creams, soap, and fragrances25.
Omani Luban (frankincense oil) is categorized into four commercial grades, known locally as Hoojri, Najdi, Shathari and Shaabi, based on the specific geographic regions within Dhofar where the resin is harvested. Hoojri is considered the highest grade, characterized by its pale colored and large lumps. The second grade is Najdi, followed by Shathari and Shabi26. Frankincense oils have demonstrated antibacterial action against significant bacterial and fungal human infections, including Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, and Staphylococcus aureus24. The essential oil from B. sacra found to be rich in monoterpenes (97.3%) with key component including α- and β-pinene, limonene, myrcene, linalool contributing to its therapeutic properties22.
Cinnamon, a well-known culinary spice, has long been valued in traditional medicine. Its effects have been explored in contexts such as pregnancy27, Diabetes mellitus28, and gynecological conditions29. Research has also highlighted its anti-inflammatory, heart-protective, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties30. Consequently, cinnamon essential oil (EO) extracts and pure compounds show promise in dental applications such as mouthwashes, toothpaste or root canal irrigants due to their antibacterial and antifungal capabilities. Belonging to the lauraceae family the genus Cinnamomum comprises over 250 evergreen tree species, primarily found in Asia, China, and Australia31. Essential oils and extracts are derived from various cinnamon plant parts, including bark, leaves, fruits, flowers, and buds, with over 80 compounds identified, varying in composition due to multiple factors32. Key constituents of cinnamon essential oil and extract include cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, phenol, and linalool. Cinnamon bark EO is particularly rich in cinnamaldehyde (65-80%) but contains less eugenol (5-10 %), while leaf extracts are high in eugenol (10-95 %). The primary active components, such as cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and cinnamate, along with procyanidins and catechins in the bark, contribute to cinnamon’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects33.
Syzygium aromaticum (L.), commonly called clove is from the family Myrtaceae. It is an aromatic spice, cultivated in India, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, the south of China and some parts of Africa. The common uses of clove have been attributed to some of its biological activities such as antibacterial, antifungal, insecticidal and antioxidant properties34,35. Clove oil expresses strong antimicrobial activity.
Peppermint oil is widely utilized in oral care products due to its capacity to prevent biofilm development, combat bacteria, and inhibit fungal proliferation. Beyond its therapeutic effects in addressing gum inflammation, periodontal disease, and bad breath, peppermint oil also hinders biofilm accumulation in the mouth. Known for its soothing and cooling properties, it helps alleviate dental and muscular discomfort. Additionally, mint oil can enhance or neutralize undesirable flavors in oral care products like toothpaste or mouth rinses36.
Ethical approval:
The Ethics and Biosafety Committee of the College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, reviewed and approved the protocol with approval number PRES0401/23-24/spring-8/Rev. Study did not involve human subjects and adhered to the ethical principles outlined in the 2013 update of the Declaration of Helsinki, the study was deemed appropriate. The study was in vitro and presented no anticipated risks.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Collection of Hibiscus sabdariffa (Roselle) calyces:
The calyces of the Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn plant was collected locally from Oman. The collected material was washed, dried, and stored in an airtight container. Before extraction 2kg of dried calyces were ground by the grinder, sieved through 44 mesh size (353µm), and stored in ziplock bags in a desiccator. The moisture content of the powder was measured with a moisture analyzer (MB45 Ohaus, Nanikon, Switzerland) and was 2.65±0.08% (w/w)
Source: Taken from free images
Figure 1. Fresh and dried Roselle calyx
Figure 2. Extracted frankincense oil
Procurement of Luban and other ingredients:
Dried Boswellia Sacra (Omani Luban) resin was purchased from a local market. Other ingredients like Cinnamon oil, Clove oil, and Peppermint oil were purchased from a local shop in Muscat, Oman.
Test Organism:
Antibacterial activity was tested against common oral bacteria found in the oral cavity. The bacteria were collected from the mouth using a swab technique and cultured on pre-solidified agar plates.
Extraction of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyces:
Roselle calyx powder was extracted using 80% ethyl alcohol and water with 1% HCl, respectively. The extraction process was assisted with ultrasonication with the following parameters: the extraction time (90 min), the plant/solvent ratio (1:10w/v), and the temperature was maintained up to 40°C.
The extraction process was repeated three times, and after the extraction is completed, the supernatants were filtered through Whatman No. 1, and then the filtrates were evaporated by a rotary evaporator, followed by lyophilization using a freeze-dryer. The percentage yields of all extracts (%yield) were calculated as per the given formula37.
Percent Yield calculation: The percent yield of roselle extract was calculated by the formula given below:
Weight of dry extract
% yield = ------------------------------------------------ × 100
Weight of dried biomass
Extraction of Frankincense oil:
Oils from Luban resin were extracted using the steam distillation method. A Clevenger-type apparatus, a cooling system, and a condenser were attached to the steam distillation assembly. The condenser was equipped with a glass connector that allowed the hydrosol (frankincense water) to return to the distillation vessel. About 200g of Luban resin was weighed and then distilled for more than 6 hours. After condensation, the frankincense oil was decanted from the hydrosol. The essential oils were collected in pre-weighed amber glass vials, closed tightly, and kept in the dark at 4°C to prevent any alteration in their composition prior to analysis38,39.
The weight of the collected oils was measured, and the percent yield (w/w) of essential oils was calculated for each sample using the following equation40,41.
WE
% FE= -------- x 100
WF
Where % FE = the percentage yield of frankincense essential oil (w/w), WE = the weight of essential oil, and WF = the original weight of frankincense oleo-gum resin.
Phytochemical screening of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Calyx (Rosella) alcoholic extract:
The phytochemical screening of the extracts was conducted using standard procedures described by Trease and Evans42. The results of the phytochemical screening are shown in Table 2.
Quantitative analysis:
Total Phenolic Content:
The Folin-Ciocalteu technique was used to determine the extract's total phenolic component content. A standard Gallic Acid curve was constructed with a standard solution of gallic acid diluted with methanol. To make the standard curve, 100µl of each dilution was mixed with 500µl of distilled water and 100µl of the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. After mixing the ingredients, the above mixture was let stand for around six minutes. The mixture was then blended with 500µl of distilled water and 1ml of 7% Na2CO3 solution. The resultant mixture was incubated for 90 minutes before recording the absorbance at 760nm. Total phenolic content was estimated in terms of Gallic acid equivalents, or mgGAE/g, using a standard curve and regression equation obtained from the standard curve43.
Total Flavonoid Content:
The total flavonoid content was determined based on quercetin equivalent (mgQE/g ). The aluminum chloride complex method was used to calculate the total flavonoid content. For assessment, a calibration curve was created. To make the dilutions, 500µl of water was mixed with 100µl of the diluted concentration made with methanol, and then 100µl of 5% NaNO3 was added. The reaction mixture was allowed to stand motionless for six minutes. Thereafter, 150µl of a 10% aluminum chloride solution was added, allowed to settle for five minutes, and then 200µl of a 1M NaOH solution was gradually added. The absorbances were measured with an Ultraviolet spectrophotometer at 510nm, and quercetin equivalent (mgQE/g) was used to express the total flavonoid concentration 44.
In-vitro quality evaluation of Herbal mouthwash:
Physical Evaluation:
Physical assessment (colour, odor, and consistency) was conducted using sensory and visual examination.
pH determination:
A digital pH meter will be used to measure the pH of prepared herbal mouthwash formulations. A standard buffer solution was used to calibrate the pH meter. To measure the pH, 1ml of mouthwash was dissolved in 50 ml of distilled water and the probe of the pH meter was immersed into the mouthwash formulations until the displayed level is stable.
Foam Height:
One mL of mouthwash was mixed with 50mL of distilled water. The mixture was poured into a 500mL measuring cylinder. Water was added to the volume to make it 100mL The mixture received 25 strokes, after which it was kept aside. The height of the foam above the aqueous volume was observed.
Viscosity measurement:
Using an Ostwald viscometer, the viscosity of mouthwash formulations was measured. The viscometer was mounted in the vertical position on a suitable stand. Mouthwash was filled into the viscometer up to mark A. The time was counted for mouthwash to flow from A to mark B. Viscosity was measured in triplicate.
Preparation of herbal mouthwash:
A total of seven formulations were designed to formulate with different combinations of ethanol, Roselle calyces extract, and acidic Roselle calyces extract, along with Omani Luban in different ratios along with other ingredients. The formulation scheme is given in Table 1.
Antimicrobial activity:
Test for Microbial Growth in Formulated Mouth Wash:
A control plate was made by inoculating an agar medium plate with a mouthwash using a streaking method. After streaking with mouthwash formulation, The plate was incubated for 24h at 37°C in an incubator. Following the incubation period, the plates were taken out, and their microbial growth was examined by comparing it with blank control45,46.
Antimicrobial activity of Roselle calyces extract and Boswellia sacra (Omani Luban) and mouthwash formulation:
The antimicrobial activity of the extracts is determined by agar cup diffusion method and oral swab techniques. A saliva sample was collected by swabbing the inner cheek mucosa and floor of the mouth and cultured overnight on an agar plate by the spread plate technique and incubated at 37°C. A sterile cork borer of 8 mm diameter was used to cut equidistant wells on the surface of the agar. The wells were filled with 0.1ml solution of each extract separately at a concentration of 10mg/ ml and with prepared herbal mouthwash. A standard antibiotic solution of Gentamicin was used as a positive control. The plates were incubated at 37°C for 24h, after which the diameter of zones of inhibition was measured to determine the antibacterial efficacy of individual extracts and mouthwash as well.
Stability Studies:
A short term accelerated stability study was carried out for the period of 3 months for the prepared formulation. The samples were stored at under the following conditions of temperature as 3-50C, 25°C RH 60%, 40 °C±2% RH=75% and analyzed for any chemical and physical change47.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:
The current work elucidates the potential of polyherbal mouthwash consisting of roselle calyx extract, Luban oil, cinnamon oil, clove oil and peppermint oil. The choice of roselle calyx and Luban oil aligns with the growing interest in harnessing the natural properties of plants for therapeutic purposes, as supported by previous studies. An earlier study conducted by Hamrita et al in 2022 assessed and reported the antimicrobial activities of roselle calyx against a wide range of bacteria, yeast, and fungi48.
Boswellia sacra is well known for its oleo-gum resin named frankincense or Luban, which is usually harvested from deep incisions made into the tree trunk. The essential oil of B. sacra contains a high proportion of monoterpenes (97.3%). The common compounds include α- and β-pinene, limonene, myrcene, linalool and others. Başer claimed that octyl acetate (39.9%) was the main constituent, followed by 1-octanol (11.9%)49. Al-Harrasi found limonene (33.5%) and (E)-β-ocimene (32.2%) to be the predominant compounds in B. sacra 50,51..
The presence of peppermint oil, clove oil, cinnamon oil, imparts a good odor, cooling sensation, and fresh breath sensation. Because of the presence of these ingredients the taste of mouthwash is slightly pungent and spicy which can be easily masked with any sweetening agent. Besides these properties, the above-mentioned ingredients, particularly clove oil have proven for centuries that it is beneficial in dental problems and having anti-inflammatory activities too which aids in reducing pain.
The percent yield for alcohol and acidic aqueous extract was recorded to be 18.65% w/w and 17.57% w/w. However, the frankincense oil was extracted using Clevenger apparatus and yield was recorded to be 6.89 % w/w. Since the yield for acidic aqueous extract was very low, only alcoholic extract was carried forward for formulations.
Table 1: Formulation scheme for herbal mouthwash
|
Formulation strategy |
|||||||
|
F1 |
F2 |
F3 |
F4 |
F5 |
F6 |
F7 |
|
|
1:0 |
0:1 |
1:1 |
1:2 |
1:3 |
2:1 |
3:1 |
|
|
Roselle Calyx extract |
20 mg |
_ |
10 |
6.6 |
5 |
13.4 |
15 |
|
Luban extract |
_ |
20 mg |
10 |
13.4 |
15 |
6.6 |
5 |
|
Clove oil |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
|
Cinnamon oil |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
|
Peppermint oil |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
0.1 ml |
|
SLS |
0.1 gm |
0.1 gm |
0.1 gm |
0.1 gm |
0.1 gm |
0.1 gm |
0.1 gm |
|
Purified Water (qs) |
10 ml |
10 ml |
10 ml |
10 ml |
10 ml |
10 ml |
10 ml |
*Ratio *Ratio between Roselle extract and Luban oil
Phytochemical analysis of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyces:
The phytochemical analysis of the formulated herbal mouthwash was conducted, revealing negative results for alkaloids and steroids, while the extract tested positive for flavonoids, saponins, tannins, phenols, and glycosides. The presence of high content of flavonoids (41.67μg/mL) and phenolic compounds (47.43μg/mL) is responsible for antimicrobial efficiency of roselle calyxes.
Table 2: Phytoconstituents Present in Hibiscus sabdariffa (Roselle)
|
Phytoconstituent |
Test |
Result |
|
|
1 |
Alkaloid |
Mayer’s test: |
- |
|
Wagner’s test |
- |
||
|
2 |
Glycoside |
Legal test |
+ |
|
3 |
Flavonoids |
Sodium hydroxide test |
+ |
|
4 |
Tannins |
Ferric chloride test |
+ |
|
5 |
Phenols |
Ferric chloride test |
+ |
|
6 |
Saponins |
Foam test |
+ |
|
7 |
Protein |
Ninhydrin test |
+ |
|
8 |
Steroids |
Chloroform test |
- |
Total flavonoids content (TFC):
The TFC content of the roselle extract was determined by extrapolation from the calibration curve (y=0.0009x+0.0043, R2 = 0.9992) prepared from the quercetin concentrations and expressed in mg of quercetin equivalence (QE) per gram.
Total phenolic content (TPC):
The TPC content of the roselle extract was determined by extrapolation from the calibration curve (y=0.0007x+0.0034, R2 = 0.9983) prepared from the gallic acid concentrations and expressed in mg of gallic acid equivalence (QE) per gram.
Table 3: Total Flavonoids and Phenol contents in Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Calyx (Rosella) alcoholic extract
|
Sample |
Absorbance (512nm) |
Total |
||
|
Flavonoid content (μg/mL) |
Phenolic content(μg/mL) |
|||
|
1 |
Herbal mouth wash |
0.041 |
41.67 |
- |
|
0.0366 |
- |
47.43 |
||
Physical evaluation of mouthwash formulation:
All the formulations were evaluated for physical characteristics like color, odor, appearance, and homogeneity. The formulations are shown in Figure 3. All formulations have a pleasant color, odor, and homogenous appearance. The formulated mouthwash was found to have a pH in the range of 4.5 to 6.2. Since the skin has an acidic pH of roughly 5.5, these formulations are suited for mouth conditions. All the formulations remained stable over 4 weeks when stored at 4°C, 25°C, and 40°C. No change in color odor and homogeneity was observed.
Figure 3: Physical characteristics of formulated herbal mouthwash
Monitoring the pH of mouthwash is crucial for protecting tooth enamel, maintaining oral health, and ensuring user comfort. Acidic mouthwashes can erode enamel at a critical pH, increasing the risk of sensitivity, cavities, and enamel loss, while pH close to the mouth's natural range (6.7-7.4) supports a balanced oral environment and prevents issues like bacterial overgrowth or decay. All the formulations have the pH within the range of 6.2 to 6.8, although it is slightly acidic side but yet acceptable as it is very close to the normal mouth pH range.
Antimicrobial activity:
The well-diffusion method was employed to assess the zone of inhibition for different mouthwash formulations. The zones of inhibition for these formulations are presented in Table 4. The findings suggest that the developed herbal mouthwash exhibits notable antibacterial activity and is effective in inhibiting bacterial growth within the oral cavity. All tested formulations demonstrated promising antibacterial effects against mouth swab samples. Notably, formulations F4 and F5, with Roselle-to-Luban oil ratios of 1:2 and 1:3, have displayed significant antibacterial activity with zones of inhibition equal to 3.8 cm and 3.6 cm, respectively, against the oral bacteria (Figure 4). These results showed that the herbal mouthwash has significant antibacterial activity, and the present preparation is able to inhibit bacterial growth in the oral cavity.
Table 4: Zones of Inhibition for herbal mouthwash
|
Formulation code |
Ratio of Roselle: Luban |
Zone of inhibition (cm) |
|
|
1 |
F1 |
1:0 |
2.1 |
|
2 |
F2 |
0:1 |
2.6 |
|
3 |
F3 |
1:1 |
2.5 |
|
4 |
F4 |
1:2 |
3.8 |
|
5 |
F5 |
1:3 |
3.6 |
|
6 |
F6 |
2:1 |
2.9 |
|
7 |
F7 |
3:1 |
3.0 |
Foam height determination:
All prepared mouthwash formulations exhibited effective foaming properties enabling them to spread extensively across the oral cavity, enhancing both antimicrobial activity and cleansing performance. Among the formulations, F2 (0:1 Luban, 7cm) demonstrated the highest foam activity, followed by F1 (1:0, 4cm). Next, F4 (3.5cm), F5 (2.8cm), F6 (2.3cm), and lastly F7(1.5cm) demonstrated the lowest foam activity (Table 5).
Stability studies:
The objective of the stability study was to ensure that mouthwash formulations retain consistent physicochemical properties and performance over time. Stability studies were conducted in accordance with ICH guidelines for accelerated testing with required modifications. Formulations were stored at 4°C, 25°C, RH 60% and 40°C, RH 75% for one month and evaluated for visual appearance, homogeneity, and any sign of physical separation. The results of stability are shown in Table 5. No change in color, order, texture or any physical separation of phases was observed.
Figure 4: Antibacterial activity of herbal mouthwash
Table 5: Stability studies for mouthwash formulations
|
Parameters |
|
||||||
|
Color |
pH |
odor |
Physical state |
Foamability (cm) |
|||
|
Before |
After |
Before |
After |
||||
|
F1 |
Pink |
No change |
6.2 |
6.0 |
Pleasant peppermint |
Homogenous |
3.5 |
|
F2 |
Pink |
No change |
6.1 |
6.2 |
Pleasant peppermint |
Homogenous |
6.7 |
|
F3 |
Pink |
No change |
6.8 |
6.2 |
Pleasant peppermint |
Homogenous |
2.0 |
|
F4 |
Pink |
No change |
6.6 |
6.4 |
Pleasant peppermint |
Homogenous |
3.1 |
|
F5 |
Pink |
No change |
6.3 |
6.5 |
Pleasant peppermint |
Homogenous |
3.0 |
|
F6 |
Pink |
No change |
6.3 |
6.1 |
Pleasant peppermint |
Homogenous |
2.4 |
|
F7 |
Pink |
No change |
6.7 |
6.2 |
Pleasant peppermint |
Homogenous |
1.3 |
CONCLUSION:
In conclusion, the herbal mouthwash formulated with frankincense oil, roselle calyx, peppermint, and clove oil has demonstrated promising antimicrobial activity with satisfactory stability. These findings suggest that the combination of these natural ingredients can serve as a therapeutically and cost-effective, safe, and eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical-based mouthwashes and rinses. The formulation not only aligns with the growing preferences for herbal and holistic oral care products but also holds potential for contributing to improved oral hygiene and microbial control. Further in-depth clinical evaluations are recommended to confirm its long-term safety, efficacy, and potential for commercial application
The authors are grateful to the College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Muscat, Oman.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST:
The authors declare they have no conflict of interest
The study is approved by the Ethics and Biosafety Committee of the College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, with approval number PRES0401/23/24/spring-8/Rev.
AUTHOR CONTRIBUTION:
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Received on 24.07.2025 Revised on 05.11.2025 Accepted on 19.01.2026 Published on 03.04.2026 Available online from April 06, 2026 Research J. Pharmacy and Technology. 2026;19(4):1757-1764. DOI: 10.52711/0974-360X.2026.00252 © RJPT All right reserved
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