Published Paper Details:

Oral diseases, including periodontitis, gingivitis, oral mucositis, and dental caries, remain among the most prevalent chronic conditions worldwide, affecting millions of people across diverse age groups and contributing significantly to morbidity and reduced quality of life. Conventional therapeutic strategies, such as systemic antibiotics, corticosteroids, and chemical mouth rinses, provide symptomatic relief but are often associated with several limitations, including adverse effects, altered taste perception, mucosal irritation, poor patient compliance, and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. These challenges highlight the pressing need for alternative therapies that are safe, effective, and patient-friendly. Herbal medicines have emerged as promising candidates for oral healthcare due to their multifaceted pharmacological activities and relatively low toxicity profiles. Among various medicinal plants, Scutellaria baicalensis (Huang Qin), a perennial herb of the Lamiaceae family, has garnered considerable attention for its therapeutic potential in oral conditions. The root of S. baicalensis is rich in bioactive flavonoids, primarily baicalin, baicalein, and wogonin, which exhibit potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. Preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated that these flavonoids can inhibit key oral pathogens such as Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Candida albicans, while modulating inflammatory pathways such as NF-?B and MAPK, and reducing oxidative stress. Formulating S. baicalensis into mucoadhesive herbal gels enables localized drug delivery, prolonged retention at the site of action, and controlled release of active constituents, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic side effects. These gels provide a patient-friendly alternative to conventional therapies, especially for populations with poor compliance to oral rinses or systemic medications.