Modulatory effects of Cissus quadrangularis

Periodontal disease is one of the most common afflictions worldwide. Bone grafting is the most common form of regenerative therapy today and it has been shown to produce successful clinical results. There are wide ranges of bone graft materials available for use in periodontics and Bovine derived hydroxyapatite (xenograft) is bone substitute, which is commercially available. The positive effects of anabolic steroids on osteoblasts and fibroblasts have been documented in both medical and periodontal literature. An indigenous medicinal herb called as Cissus quadrangularis (common name Harjor), besides other ingredients, contains highly potent anabolic steroid and has been traditionally used for accelerating fracture healing. The beneficial effects of this herb in fracture management have been confirmed by both experimental and clinical studies, but its efficacy in enhancing periodontal regeneration has not been evaluated. The present study clinically evaluates the efficacy of bovine derived hydroxyapatite combined with Cissus quadrangularis, as compared to bovine derived hydroxyapatite alone in the treatment of infrabony defects.