Abstract

SPILANTHOL GEL IN PERIODONTITIS: BRIDGING TRADITIONAL WISDOM WITH MODERN DENTISTRY

Mrs. Ansira P.*, Prof. Dr. K. Premaletha, Mrs. Baby Nishma, Ms. Arya P. V., Ms. Twinkle N. U.

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Abstract

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by destruction of tooth-supporting tissues due to microbial dysbiosis and host immune response, remains challenging to treat effectively with conventional therapies alone. Spilanthol, the bioactive alkylamide extracted from Spilanthes acmella and Acmella oleracea, (commonly known as the toothache plant), exhibits significant pharmacological properties such as local anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects, making it a promising therapeutic agent in oral healthcare. Spilanthol is primarily extracted from the flower heads of Spilanthes acmella using methods like Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES), Supercritical CO2 extraction, Ethanol extraction, and Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE). These methods aim to optimize yield and purity while being ecofriendly. Various studies have developed spilanthol-based gels for different applications. These gels demonstrate robust antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities suitable for treating periodontal conditions. Spilanthol offers a unique combination of therapeutic properties beneficial for treating periodontitis. Incorporating spilanthol into gels presents a promising localized treatment strategy that combines sustained release, targeted action, and reduced systemic side effects. Although no standardized commercial spilanthol gel for periodontitis exists yet, the evidence supports its potential for future development.

Keywords: Periodontitis, spilanthol, spilanthes acmella, periodontal gel.