Beneficial Effects of Goldenrod Extract in Rat Experimetal Periodontitis

Various aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Goldenrod herb have been used for therapeutic purposes for over 700 years. They are known for diuretic, antiphlogistic, antibacterial, antimycotic, antitumour, analgesic and spasmolytic properties. Objectives: Based upon its antiphlogistic and antibacterial effects, the therapeutic potential of SL-101, an ethanolic extract of European goldenrod herb (Solidago virgaurea) has been tested against ligature-induced periodontitis in rat. Method: Periodontitis was produced by a silk ligature placed around the cervix of the lower left first molar in rat. Animals were gavaged with 20 or 100 mg/kg SL-101 or vehicle once a day for seven days. On Day 8, the effects of SL-101 in the gingivomucosal tissues encircling the mandibular first molars were evaluated utilizing the following methods: histological evaluation, biochemical analysis, estimation of capillary permeability by Evans blue extravasation technique. Furthermore, the alveolar bone resorption was also measured by videomicroscopy. Results: Ligation-induced periodontitis resulted in marked inflammation in the gingivomucosal tissue and led to alveolar bone destruction. Both of the applied doses of SL-101 reduced the ligature-induced inflammation that was reflected in histological alterations, decreased expression of inflammatory enzymes, iNOS and COX-2, reduced nitrotyrosine formation, restored mitochondrial mass and ATP level, inhibition of inflammation induced increased capillary permeability and alveolar bone loss. Conclusion: The SL-101 herb extract is protective in experimental periodontitis and it represents a potential adjuvant for the treatment of periodontal disease. Supported partly by Hungarian OTKA T049708, and MinDent 1987 Ltd. lohinai@elet2.sote.hu