Alternative Medications in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery- A Review

The integration of alternative medicines into oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) presents a complementary approach to improving treatment outcomes, minimizing drug-related adverse effects, and managing postoperative complications. This review aims to evaluate the role of traditional and complementary modalities, including Ayurveda, Siddha, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), homeopathy, and various herbal therapies, in the perioperative management of OMFS patients. Ayurvedic agents such as turmeric, Triphala, neem, aloe vera, ginger, clove, and miswak have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic, and wound-healing properties, making them beneficial in conditions like oral submucous fibrosis, periodontal disease, and alveolar osteitis. Siddha formulations and ethnomedicinal plants including paracress, black nightshade, and noni support gum health and mucosal repair. TCM remedies, notably Angelica sinensis and Yunnan Baiyao, enhance hemostasis and tissue regeneration, while acupuncture offers effective relief from perioperative pain and anxiety. Homeopathic agents such as Arnica and Calendula, along with nutraceuticals like bromelain, eugenol, green tea extract, vitamin C, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, further contribute to healing, immune support, and improved recovery. Mechanistically, these therapies exert effects through cytokine modulation, COX/LOX pathway inhibition, angiogenesis promotion, and reduction of oxidative stress. While accumulating evidence suggests promising outcomes, larger controlled clinical trials are required to establish standardization, efficacy, and safety for clinical integration. This review highlights the potential of alternative medicines as adjuncts in OMFS, aiming to broaden therapeutic options and support holistic patient care.