A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PUNICA GRANATUM EXTRACT FOR THE TREATMENT OF RECURRENT APHTHOUS STOMATITIS

Recurrent aphthous Stomatitis (RAS) is a painful ulcerous condition that was conservatively treated using topical corticosteroids, immuno-suppressants, thalidomide with some potential risks and reactions. Considering this, herbal extracts are found to be a better alternative with very minimum side effects. Punica granatum (pomegranate) extract is one such flavonoid-containing food supplement with excellent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties used in preventing and treating RAS. The aim of the study is to assess the efficacy of Punica granatum extract in treating RAS. Materials And Method: Systematic review of randomized, clinical studies were searched using Pubmed, Scopus, Cochrane, Medline, Science direct, Lilacs, and Grey Literature. Research articles were collected using both electronic and manual search methods with a final record of nineteen. Several articles were scrutinized, redundant information was discarded, and based on the study pattern, interventions, outcomes, eight records were taken for consideration. Results: Four studies were refined in the systematic review with randomized, clinical studies meeting all criteria. These three were statistically significant and the other did not clearly state the outcome and statistical significance. Conclusion: Punica granatum extract shows good efficacy in treating RAS. But furthermore, clinical studies and trials have to be done to prove its sustainable and irrevocable existence in the commercial market.