Antimicrobial activity of Rosa damascena against oral infections: An overview

Introduction: Oral diseases, including dental caries and periodontal diseases are among the most important infectious diseases in the world. There are several antibiotics for treatment / control of oral infections but some challenges such as their adverse side effects and development of antibiotic resistance induce scientists to survey for alternative methods. In recent decades, application of plant products for prevention and control of oral infectious has been progressively considered. Rosa damascena is one of species of Rosaceae family with beneficial health and therapeutic effects. It may be effective against a wide spectrum of microorganisms. In traditional medicine texts, preventive and therapeutic effects of this plant have mentioned. Moreover, some new evidences are emerging that indicating that it may be useful in control of oral infections. The major products of Rosa damascena are rose water, rose oil, dried flowers and hips. In this review article, scientific documents related to the role of Rosa damascena in the prevention and treatment of oral infectious diseases have been evaluated. Methods: This study was conducted using library research method and databases searching. Results: Some evidences are emerging that Rosa damascena may be useful in the control of oral infections: - Bacteriostatic or bactericidal and anti-adhesive effects of various extracts of Rosa damascena against cariogenic streptococci. - Effect of rose water on decreasing the adhesion of the most common cariogenic bacteria - Antimicrobial effect of Rosa damascena extract against endodontic pathogens. - Effect of mouthwash containing Rosa damascena extract in the treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis. Discussion: Rosa damascena as a medicinal plant is capable of intervention against oral infectious diseases. The application of Rosa damascena and its products can decrease the need to antimicrobial agents. However, further studies for isolation and purification of bioactive compounds and their applications in different pharmaceutical formulations for control of oral infections as complementary medicine could be regarded. Therefore, this plant may be a valuable candidate for oral infections prevention, control and treatment