Optimization and evaluation of pomegranate’s astringent properties: Traditional Indian medicine versus imported synthetic alternatives

Punica granatum (pomegranate) has long been recognized in traditional Indian medicine for its therapeutic properties, including notable astringent activity. In dentistry, astringents play an important role in inducing protein precipitation, tissue contraction, and hemostasis, making them useful in procedures such as gingival retraction, wound healing, and management of oral inflammatory conditions. However, despite its traditional use, there is limited scientific evidence evaluating the astringent potential of pomegranate in comparison to commonly used synthetic agents. This study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the astringent property of pomegranate extract using a Protein Precipitation Assay (PPA) and to compare its efficacy with standard astringents such as tannic acid, aluminium chloride, and lactocalamine. Pomegranate extract was prepared using Soxhlet extraction from dried plant material, and a 10% w/v egg albumin solution was used as the protein substrate. Incremental additions of each test solution were performed, and protein precipitation was assessed using Biuret test confirmation and UV absorbance measurements at 280 nm. Changes in pH and the volume required to reach the endpoint were recorded, and astringent power was calculated relative to tannic acid. The results demonstrated that tannic acid exhibited the highest astringent activity, requiring the least volume (3 ml) and showing maximum absorbance reduction (0.7402 to 0.2514). Aluminium chloride showed moderate activity (5 ml; 0.3286), followed by lactocalamine. Pomegranate extract showed moderate astringent potential (10 ml; 0.7399 to 0.4156). These findings support its potential as a natural, cost-effective alternative for dental applications.