Introduction: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is among the most common potentially malignant disorders of the oral cavity, closely linked to the habitual chewing of areca nut and tobacco. Management options range from habit cessation counseling and physiotherapy to pharmacological and surgical interventions. This study aimed to assess and compare the effects of turmeric—given orally, applied topically, or in combination—with those of a positive control (antioxidants) in patients with OSMF. Material and Methods: Ninety six clinically diagnosed OSMF patients, aged 18–50 years, were randomly assigned to four equal groups. Group A received turmeric capsules; Group B applied turmeric topically; Group C received both oral and topical turmeric; and Group D was given antioxidant tablets. Active treatment lasted three months, followed by monitoring up to six months. Monthly assessments included burning sensation, interincisal mouth opening, tongue protrusion (TP), and cheek flexibility (CF). Results: Burning sensation was reduced notably in all groups within the first three months. Group A achieved the greatest gain in mouth opening (mean: 33.13 ± 3.56 mm, P < 0.001). Group B showed the highest TP improvement by the sixth month. CF increased steadily in Groups C and D over six months, with statistically significant results. The combined turmeric approach (Group C) demonstrated the most balanced improvement across all measured outcomes. Conclusion: Turmeric, whether oral, topical, or both, is a safe, inexpensive, and effective adjunct for managing OSMF. Combined therapy appears to offer the most comprehensive benefit. Larger, longer term studies are recommended to strengthen the evidence base and guide clinical protocols.
Srivastava et al. (Thu,) studied this question.