Effectiveness of Kampo Medicines Against Intractable Stomatitis: A Mini-Review

Intractable stomatitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of oral mucosa, with unclear etiopathogenesis. Kampo Medicines (KMs), i.e., Japanese herbal medicines, effectively treat stomatitis. The precise effects of KMs on intractable stomatitis are not established. We present the details of several patients with intractable stomatitis who were well-treated with KMs (i.e., Inchinkoto, Orento, Goreisan, and Byakkokaninjinto). We also review the literature on the link between intractable stomatitis and KMs. KM-related anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity may suppress intractable stomatitis. KMs may also facilitate wound healing through increased saliva secretion. KMs may therefore be useful for the treatment of intractable stomatitis.