Nanotechnology in Phytotherapy: Antiinflammatory Effect of a Nanostructured Thymol Gel from Lippia sidoides in Acute Periodontitis in Rats

Abstract

Lippia sidoides Cham (Verbenaceae) is largely distributed in the northeastern region of Brazil. It is popularly known as 'Alecrim-pimenta'. Recent studies have shown that some species of Lippia have interesting pharmacological activities. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a nanostructured thymol gel (TG) 1.2 mg/g on acute phase of ligature-induced periodontitis model [acute periodontal disease (APD)] in rats. APD was induced in 24 Wistar rats subjected to ligature placement on left molars in maxillae. Animals were treated with TG, immediately after APD induction. Saline-based gel was utilized as negative control and diethylammonium diclofenac gel 10 mg/g was used as positive control. Animals were randomly assigned into the groups. The periodontium and the surrounding gingiva were examined at histopathology, as well as the neutrophil influx into the gingiva was assayed using myeloperoxidase activity levels by ELISA method. TG treatment reduced tissue lesion at histopathology coupled to decreased myeloperoxidase activity production in gingival tissue when compared with the saline gel control group (p < 0.05). The TG gel was able to provide a significant myeloperoxidase decreasing in gingiva tissue confirming to be effective in reducing gingival inflammation in this model.

Thymol, thyme, and other plant sources: Health and potential uses

“…Thus, thymol could be used topically for the ablation of mast cell-associated skin inflammation disorders (Wechsler et al, 2014). In addition, the anti-inflammatory effect of a thymol gel from Lippia sidoides was evidenced in acute periodontitis in rats (Botelho et al, 2016).…”

Carvacrol Ameliorates Ligation‐Induced Periodontitis in Rats

“…For instance, a positive control group was not included. Recently, using a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) as a positive control, a similar anti‐inflammation effect of thymol nanogel and diethylammonium diclofenac gel in acute periodontitis in rats was observed 38 . Therefore, a potential area of future research would be using an NSAID as a positive control for testing the anti‐inflammatory effect of carvacrol.…”

In vitroEffect of Mouthrinse Containing Essential Oils on Proliferation and Migration of Gingival Epithelial Cells

“…Moreover, a recent study reported that application of nanostructured thymol gel from L. sidoides was effective in reducing periodontal inflammation in vivo (Botelho et al, 2016). These studies suggest that the use of EO may prove to be an effective adjunct to periodontal care, when used with novel technology.…”