Efficacy of Natural Artificial Saliva and Natural Saliva Stimulant in Xerostomia: A Review

Abstract

Xerostomia, characterized by reduced salivary flow, leads to significant health issues that compromise oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL). Current therapeutic approaches for xerostomia include artificial saliva and saliva stimulants, which aim to restore moisture and lubrication to oral surfaces. Natural products have been utilized in medical applications for centuries due to their bioactive compounds that exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities. However, their efficacy in treating xerostomia remains unclear. This review aims to assess the efficacy of natural artificial saliva and natural saliva stimulants in treating xerostomia. Methods, the data synthesis followed a rapid review protocol by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P). Electronic databases were searched for articles published from 2004 to 2024 that evaluated the efficacy of natural artificial saliva and natural saliva stimulants for xerostomia Results obtained from PubMed and ScienceDirect databases identified 37 scientific articles, of which 7 met the inclusion criteria. This review study found that a combination of Malva sylvestris and Alcea digitata, lycopene-enriched virgin olive oil, a combination of Matricaria chamomilla and Linum usitatissimum, Althaea officinalis, and licorice improved xerostomia-related symptoms enhanced patient quality of life. Conclusion, natural compounds exhibit pharmacological activity in reducing xerostomia symptoms and improving quality of life (QoL). They show potential as constituents of artificial saliva and saliva stimulants.