• Chalandakorn Ruengprasertkit B.N.S.
• Naulchavee Hongprasong D.D.S., M.D.S., Thai Board (Periodontology)
• Boonyong Tantisira B.Sc. in Pharm., Ph.D.
• Mayuree H. Tantisira B.Sc. in Pharm., Ph.D.

Objective The present pilot study aimed to investigate the effects of a standardized extract of
Centella asiatica ECa 233 on an oral paste form on minor recurrent aphthous ulceration (MiRAU).

Materials and methods A randomized, single-blind, placebo controlled trial was conducted on 24
eligible subjects with MiRAU and randomly divided into four groups: 0.05, 0.10 and 0.20% ECa 233
paste and placebo oral paste. On entry to the trial at day 0, subjects were instructed to apply the oral
paste three times per day (after breakfast and lunch and at bedtime) for 10 days or until the ulcer was
completely healed. In addition, numbers of ulcer, size and pain score were daily evaluated and recorded
in a log diary booklet by subjects themselves. Follow-up visit was made on day 3 and 10 in which
subjects were interviewed for the occurrence of unwanted effects. Analysis of data reported was made
by one-way ANOVA followed by Least Significant Different.

Results Twenty four subjects enrolled and completed the study. Healing of ulcer over time was
observed in all subjects, however, with differences in time courses. In comparison to the ulcer size
in day 0, significant reduction in ulcer size was initially noted at day 9 in a placebo group whereas
they were at day 2, 6 and 4 in 0.05, 0.10 and 0.20% ECa 233 treated groups, respectively. Reduction
of mean pain score was observed in the same manner. Significant reduction of pain score was initially observed at day 2, 4 and 3 in 0.05, 0.10 and 0.20% ECa 233 treated groups, respectively whereas their respective value in placebo group was found at day 6. Erythema which was gradually resolved and completely disappeared at day 10 in all ECa 233 treated groups, remained slightly visible at day 10 in placebo group. In parallel with its efficacy, no unwanted effect of ECa 233 was reported or noted.

Conclusion Our preliminary study demonstrated for the first time that oral paste containing ECa 233
was safe and effective in reducing pain, ulcer size and erythema of MiRAU suggesting the potential of
the test compound to be further developed for the management of oral minor aphthous ulcers.

(CU Dent J. 2010;33:131-42)