Herbal alternatives are increasingly explored in periodontal therapy to minimize the adverse effects associated with conventional antimicrobials. This animal study evaluated the efficacy of 15% Tridax procumbens gel (Group A) in experimentally induced periodontitis using a split-mouth design in four male rabbits, with 2% chlorhexidine gel (Group B) as the control. Periodontitis was induced using silk ligatures, followed by daily topical application for one month. In Group A, mean probing depth significantly reduced from 5.63 ± 0.48 mm to 2.50 ± 0.58 mm (p = 0.002), while Group B showed a reduction from 5.50 ± 0.58 mm to 1.75 ± 0.50 mm (p = 0.001). Bleeding on probing decreased from 2.75 ± 0.50 to 1.25 ± 0.50 in Group A (p = 0.057) and from 2.75 ± 0.50 to 0.50 ± 0.58 in Group B (p = 0.018). Calculus scores significantly decreased in both groups, from 2.75 ± 0.50 to 1.25 ± 0.50 in Group A (p = 0.013) and from 2.75 ± 0.50 to 0.75 ± 0.50 in Group B (p = 0.002). Intergroup comparisons revealed no statistically significant differences for any clinical parameter at baseline or post-treatment (p > 0.05). Given the small sample size and short observation period, the findings should be considered preliminary. While Tridax procumbens gel showed measurable clinical improvement, its effects were not superior to chlorhexidine and, in some parameters, were less pronounced. Larger, adequately powered studies with longer follow-up periods are required to determine its true therapeutic potential and long-term efficacy in periodontal therapy.
