Comparison of Antifungal Efficacy of Zataria Multiflora and Nystatin for Treatment of Denture Stomatitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM: Zataria multiflora (ZM) is a thyme-like plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the center and south of Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Evidence shows that ZM contains thymol and carvacrol and is therefore, effective for the treatment of many conditions especially fungal infections. Oral candidiasis is the most common opportunistic infection of the oral mucosa that plays a role in the development of denture stomatitis. PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare the antifungal efficacy of ZM and nystatin suspension for the treatment of denture stomatitis. MATERIALS AND METHOD: This single-blind clinical trial evaluated 28 patients (> 18 years old) suffering from type II or III denture stomatitis. Patients were divided into two groups. The control group used nystatin suspension while the case group used ZM drop. The number of Candida albicans (C. albicans) colony-forming units (CFUs) and erythema of the palate were evaluated at baseline and at 14 days after treatment. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 11 via Student’s t test and repeated measure ANOVA. RESULTS: The results showed similar efficacy of nystatin and ZM in the reduction of C.albicans CFUs compared to the baseline value (p= 0.593). Both medications significantly decreased the colony count (p< 0.001). Nystatin and ZM had similar efficacy for the reduction of erythema as well (p= 0.256) and both caused a significant reduction in erythema of the palate (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: ZM drop was as effective as the nystatin drop in the resolution of erythema of the palate and reduction of C. albicans colony count.