MARINE SEAWEED POLYSACCHARIDES AS HERBAL THERAPEUTICS IN ORAL CANCER AND ORAL HEALTH MANAGEMENT – A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Background: Herbal remedies are gaining recognition in oral and dental healthcare for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and therapeutic benefits. Marine seaweed polysaccharides (MSPs) including alginate, carrageenan, fucoidan, and agar are derived from brown, red, and green algae. These natural compounds exhibit diverse biological activities such as antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anticancer effects, making them promising candidates for the integrative management of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), a prevalent and aggressive oral malignancy. Purpose: This review explores the therapeutic potential of MSPs in OSCC and broader oral health applications. It highlights their mechanisms of action, evaluates preclinical and early clinical evidence, and discusses their potential as adjuncts in dental and oncological care. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for studies published in the past five years. Keywords included “marine polysaccharides,” “seaweed,” “oral cancer,” “OSCC,” “oral health,” and “herbal medicine.” Relevant in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies were included. The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Figure 1 presents the PRISMA flow diagram outlining the identification, screening, eligibility, and inclusion of studies considered for this review. Results: MSPs demonstrate anticancer effects through induction of apoptosis, inhibition of proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis, and modulation of immune responses. Their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also support roles in managing periodontitis and gingivitis. Favorable bioavailability and safety profiles enhance their applicability in drug delivery and oral therapeutics. Conclusions: Marine seaweed polysaccharides offer a promising herbal approach for OSCC and oral health disorders. Further clinical and mechanistic studies are essential to validate their efficacy and support their inclusion in evidence-based dental practice.