Become A Member

Introduction: Oral health is integral to systemic well-being, and diseases of the oral cavity (Mukharoga) have been described extensively in Ayurveda. With over 65 types of Mukharoga classified in classical texts, Ayurveda emphasizes preventive, curative, and promotive strategies for oral health. Modern dentistry focuses on microbial control and mechanical interventions, whereas Ayurveda offers holistic solutions through diet, daily regimens, herbal formulations, and local therapies. Methods: Literature was reviewed from Ayurvedic classics (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Bhavaprakasha), PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AYUSH Research Portal, and Google Scholar. Keywords included “Mukharoga,” “Ayurveda and oral diseases,” “Ayurvedic dentistry,” and “oral cavity diseases Ayurveda.” Inclusion criteria comprised classical descriptions, clinical trials, review articles, and pharmacological studies on oral cavity diseases. Non-relevant and anecdotal reports were excluded. Results: Ayurveda classifies Mukharoga into categories affecting tongue (Jivhamaya), lips (Oshta), palate (Talu), throat (Kantha), and teeth/gums (Danta, Dantamula). Commonly described conditions include stomatitis, gingivitis, halitosis, dental caries, ulcers, and infections. Management strategies encompass Dinacharya practices like Dantadhavana (tooth cleaning), Kavalagraha and Gandusha (oil pulling), and use of herbal drugs like Triphala, Yashtimadhu, Haridra, and Neem. Clinical evidence supports antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties of these remedies, aligning with modern oral hygiene strategies. Discussion: Ayurvedic management of Mukharoga provides preventive, curative, and promotive benefits. While modern evidence validates many herbal formulations, gaps remain in large-scale trials, pharmacological standardization, and global acceptance.

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Gandusha, Mukharoga, oral health, Triphala