Effect of Morus Nigra Mouthwash on Gingivitis Treatment

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Morus Nigra Mouthwash as an Adjunct to Scaling and Root Planing in the Treatment of Gingivitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical, microbiological, and biochemical effects of Morus nigra (black mulberry) mouthwash when used as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment (scaling and root planing - SRP) in patients with generalized gingivitis. Participants will be randomly assigned to two groups: one receiving SRP only, and the other receiving SRP plus Morus nigra mouthwash twice daily for 14 days. Clinical parameters, cytokine levels in gingival crevicular fluid (TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, IL-10), and subgingival bacterial load will be assessed at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months.

Gingivitis is a reversible inflammatory disease of the gingiva. While mechanical plaque control (SRP) is the gold standard for treatment, herbal adjuncts like Morus nigra are of interest due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This randomized, controlled clinical trial will include 30 patients diagnosed with generalized gingivitis. The test group will use Morus nigra mouthwash for 14 days following SRP. Clinical indices (Gingival Index, Plaque Index) will be recorded. Biochemical analysis of cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, IL-10) will be performed using ELISA, and microbiological analysis of subgingival plaque will be conducted using Real-time PCR.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of generalized gingivitis (Gingival Index > 1).
• Presence of at least 20 natural teeth.
• Systemically healthy individuals.
• Ability to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Smoking or use of tobacco products.
• Presence of periodontitis (no clinical attachment loss).
• Use of antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs in the last 6 months.
• Pregnancy or lactation.
• History of allergy to Morus nigra or mouthwash components.
• Systemic diseases (Diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, etc.).