Comparative evaluation of novel gel-containing curcumin, Aloe Vera, and honey with triamcinolone acetonide as an adjunct to oral physiotherapy in oral submucous fibrosis patients: A pilot study

Background and Objective: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a juxtraepithelial inflammatory reaction followed by fibro elastic change of lamina propria. Hence, the inflammation is a definite component of OSMF. Combinations of turmeric, Aloe vera, and honey have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects which may act synergistically to serve as beneficiary for treating OSMF disease. Hence, the present study aims to compare the efficacy of topical application of novel gel containing curcumin, Aloe vera, honey, and physiotherapy with 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide and physiotherapy in the reduction of clinical signs and symptoms of OSMF patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 clinically diagnosed OSMF patients were divided into two groups containing 10 patients each. Participants including in Group A were treated with topical application of novel gel-containing curcumin, Aloe vera, and honey along with physiotherapy. Group B patients were treated with the topical application of 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide along with physiotherapy. Participants were evaluated at baseline and at the 7th day, 14th day, and 21st day. They were evaluated for mouth opening (maximum interincisal distance) and burning sensation (Visual Analogue Scale). Results: The reduction in burning sensation and increase in mouth opening is observed in both the groups. Both groups showed no statistically significant difference. Thus, both are statistically equally effective. Reduction burning sensation at the 21st day was more in Group A than in Group B, but difference is not statistically significant. Conclusion: Novel gel is as effective as topical steroid triamcinolone acetonide in reducing the signs and symptoms of OSMF.