THE USE OF PLANT POLYPHENOLS IN THE TREATMENT OF ORAL LICHEN PLANUS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the oral mucosa mediated by T-cell immune responses and recognized by the World Health Organization as a potentially malignant condition. The disease often causes persistent pain, burning sensations, and discomfort during eating and speaking, which can markedly reduce patients’ quality of life. Although topical and systemic corticosteroids remain the cornerstone of treatment, their prolonged use may result in local and systemic adverse effects, prompting interest in safer and more sustainable therapeutic approaches. This narrative review examines the available evidence on the use of plant-derived polyphenols in the management of OLP. Relevant publications published between 2010 and 2026 were identified through searches of PubMed, Scopus, and e-LIBRARY using combinations of the terms “oral lichen planus,” “polyphenols,” “antioxidants,” and “treatment.” Clinical studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses evaluating topical or systemic plant-based interventions were considered. A growing body of research indicates that several polyphenol-rich natural products, including curcumin, pomegranate extracts, green tea catechins, chamomile, Aloe vera, and Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), may provide clinical benefits in patients with OLP. Their therapeutic effects are largely attributed to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and tissue-healing activities. Among the investigated agents, curcumin and Aloe vera have been studied most extensively and have shown results comparable to topical corticosteroids in a number of clinical trials. Nevertheless, differences in study design, treatment protocols, dosage forms, sample sizes, and follow-up periods make direct comparisons difficult and limit the strength of current conclusions. Overall, plantderived polyphenols appear to be promising adjunctive therapies for oral lichen planus and may offer useful alternatives for selected patients. However, the existing evidence is not yet sufficient to support their routine use as first-line treatment. Further well-designed randomized controlled trials with standardized formulations and longer follow-up periods are needed to better define their efficacy, safety, and place in clinical practice.