Background: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a common oral mucosal condition characterized by painful, recurrent ulcers that affect quality of life. Topical corticosteroids such as triamcinolone acetonide are the standard treatment due to their anti-inflammatory effects, but concerns about side effects and patient preference have prompted interest in alternative therapies. Aloe vera, known for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, has emerged as a potential natural option. However, comparative evidence with standard treatments remains limited, necessitating further evaluation of its clinical efficacy in RAS management. Aim: This study aims to show the clinical efficacy of Aloe vera as compared with triamcinolone acetonide in the management of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS). Materials and Methods: This comparative study was conducted on 60 patients (17–40 years) with RAS, who were randomly divided into two groups: Group A ( n = 30) on triamcinolone acetonide paste, and Group B ( n = 30) on Aloe vera gel. Both were applied at 6-hour intervals daily for 7 days under blinded conditions. Pain was self-assessed daily using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (0–10), and healing was evaluated on Day 7 with the WHO Oral Mucositis Grading Scale. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 21.0, applying Student’s t -test for parametric and Mann–Whitney U test for non-parametric variables. Results: Sixty participants completed the trial. Males predominated in Group A, females in Group B. Both groups showed significant improvement by Day 7 with no post-treatment scores above 2. Males in Group A showed faster mid-phase improvement (Days 3–6, P = 0.026–0.002), while females demonstrated similar progress across groups. Overall, Aloe vera achieved comparable efficacy to triamcinolone, though steroid therapy offered quicker relief in males. Conclusion: Both triamcinolone acetonide and Aloe vera were effective in managing minor RAS. Triamcinolone provided faster recovery in males, whereas Aloe vera was equally effective overall. Clinical Significance: Aloe vera offers a safe, natural alternative for patients unable or unwilling to use corticosteroids, while Triamcinolone may be preferable when faster symptom relief is desired.
Bhavna et al. (Wed,) studied this question.