Effect of Prunus mume extract(PME)-containing chewing gum mastication on the change of saliva ingredients

Objectives: The purpose of the study is to investigate the effect of chewing gum containing Prunus mume extract(PME) on the change of saliva ingredients. On the basis of the biological background of molecules and diagnostic indices in the use of saliva, the mastication effect of chewing gum containing PME was demonstrated in terms of secretory IgA concentration and total protein concentration in stimulated saliva. Methods: This study is an experimental research on the use of a research design before and after applying a randomized control group. Participants were distributed randomly to the experimental group and the control group, respectively. The experiment group was instructed to masticate the chewing gum containing PME for 10 minutes for one month after each meal within 30 minutes. Salivary secretion was collected by the participants between 8 and 10 a.m in the morning in the research office. For the measurement of secretory IgA and total protein concentrations in the saliva, indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was used. Results: The salivation stimulation rate was significantly increased after four weeks of masticating chewing gum containing PME after each meal(p<0.001). Mastication of chewing gum containing PME for four weeks decreased the concentration of secretory IgA much more significantly than that after mastication for one week(p=0.003). The concentration of total protein in the saliva was decreased after four weeks in the experimental and control groups. Conclusions: Mastication of chewing gum containing PME stimulated salivary secretion and led to oral disease prevention in patients with xerostomia. Furthermore, it seems to be urgent to seek measures that can be utilized in intervention for patients with xerostomia.