International Journal of Medicinal Plants and Alternative Medicine Vol. 1(8), pp. 164-167, September 2013 ISSN 2327-560X ©2013 Academe Research Journals

Full Length Research Paper

Effect of palatal mucoadhesive tablet containing herbal formulation on oral malodor in dogs

Nir Sterer1*, Einat Holtzman2, Annet Assael3 and Michael Perez Davidi2

1Department of Prosthodontics, School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Israel.

2Department of Prosthodontics, The Hebrew University-Hadassah School of Dental Medicine, P. O. Box 12272, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.

3Veterinary Clinic, Mishol Hamagalit, Ramot, Jerusalem, Israel.

*Corresponding author. E-mail: drsterer@gmail.com . Tel: 972-3-6407902.

Accepted 24 September, 2013

Abstract

Canine oral malodor is a common complaint among dog owners. The aim of this study was to test the effect of an antimicrobial herbal palatal mucoadhesive tablet on oral malodor in dogs. Twelve dogs suffering from oral malodor participated in the study. Palatal mucoadhesive tablets were prepared with or without the herbal medicinals: Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia), Mastic gum (Pistacia lentiscus), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Sage (Salvia officinalis). Measurement included odor judge scores (two judges) and volatile sulfide compounds (VSC) readings by a sulfide monitor (Halimeter®). Application of the palatal adhesive tablets containing herbal formulation resulted in a 60% reduction in oral malodor scores and 73% in VSC levels. These results suggest that the palatal mucoadhesive tablets containing herbal formulation may serve as an effective means of treatment for oral malodor in dogs.

Key words: Herbal medicinals, mucoadhesive, dogs, oral malodor.