Sir
We have read the nice article by Vergara-Buenaventura and Castro-Ruiz about the use of mouthwashes in dentistry to reduce the number of microorganisms in the oral cavity.1 They recommended gargling for 30 seconds in the oral cavity and 30 seconds in the back of the throat to reduce the viral load of SARS-CoV-2 and the risk of cross-infection during the pandemic. The use of chlorhexidine (CHX), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), and povidone-iodine (PVP-I) mouthwashes reduce the viral load of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva. Meiller et al observed that Listerine® antiseptic mouthwash (containing phenolic compounds)(Johnson & Johnson) can also help to reduce the the presence of viral contamination in oral fluids for 30 minutes after oral rinse.2
In their recent review, Levy et al noted that plant polyphenols may help in the therapeutic strategy for the management of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Polyphenols have antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiobesogenic, antidiabetic, antithrombotic, and prebiotic effects.3 In addition to polyphenols, plants also contain terpenes and saponins. These substances are present in the essential oils of medicinal plants and are virucidal.4 Saponins are used as surfactants and natural detergents. Soap also helps to kill coronavirus by destroying the envelope of the virus. Saponins have properties of foaming and because of this, can disrupt the lipid‐based envelope of the virus.5 Curry leaves (Murraya koenigii L. Spreng) are rich in polyphenols, terpenes, saponins, chlorophyll, and carotene. They have been used in the preparation of food in India and other neighbouring countries for many years as they are aromatic. Curry-leaf mouthwash is as effective as chlorhexidine in treating plaque-induced gingivitis.6 The curry leaf plant can be grown easily and is safe. It is economic to use as a mouthwash as it can be prepared at home. Plant products therefore can help to reduce the spread of coronavirus infection.
Conflict of interest
We have no conflicts of interest.
Ethics statement/confirmation of patients’ permission
Not applicable.
References
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