%0 Journal Article
%T Effect of Phytochemical Compounds on Trichomonas tenax, an Oral Protozoan.
%A Stuart MK
%A Motes HC
%A Hudman DA
%J Altern Ther Health Med
%V 30
%N 3
%D 2024 Mar 22
%M 38518169
%F 1.804
%X Trichomonas tenax is an oral protozoan with an estimated global pooled prevalence of 17% in the human population.1 Observational studies have demonstrated a significant statistical correlation between oral colonization by T. tenax and the progression of periodontal disease.2 Proposed pathogenic mechanisms for this protozoan include the production of tissue-damaging enzymes, induction of apoptosis in human cells, and dysbiosis of the oral microbiome.3 In patients for whom metronidazole (MTZ) is contraindicated, phytochemicals may offer a viable alternative for controlling T. tenax. Various plant extracts have shown promising in vitro activity against other trichomonads, such as T. vaginalis and Tritrichomonas foetus, as reviewed by Friedman et al.4.