Evaluation of the efficacy of Moringa leaf extract in the treatment of oral submucous fibrosis in comparison with the standard treatment protocol—A pilot study

Purpose: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic, potentially malignant disorder with a significant impact on oral health and quality of life. Existing treatment options have limitations in efficacy, accessibility, and side-effect profile. Herbal alternatives like Moringa oleifera , known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties, offer a promising therapeutic approach. Materials and Methods: A randomized, controlled pilot study was conducted on 24 clinically diagnosed OSMF patients, divided into three groups ( n = 8 per group). Group I received Moringa tablets, standard antioxidant, and 4% Moringa gel; Group II received Moringa powder, standard antioxidant, and 4% Moringa gel; Group III (Control) received standard antioxidant and standard topical steroid. Patients were evaluated on Day 0, 10, 20, 30, and at 1-month follow-up for burning sensation (Visual Analogue Scale score), mouth opening, tongue protrusion, and cheek flexibility. Results: All groups showed improvement across clinical parameters. The Moringa-based groups demonstrated comparable or superior outcomes to the standard treatment group. Notably, the Moringa powder group (Group II) showed greater reduction in burning sensation and improvement in mouth opening compared to both the control and standard groups, although the differences were statistically insignificant for most parameters. Conclusion: M. oleifera shows potential as a natural, cost-effective adjunct in the management of OSMF, particularly due to its favorable safety profile and combined topical and systemic effects.