Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Orthodontics Research Center, School of Dentistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
2
Postgraduate Orthodontic Resident, Orthodontic Research Center, School of Dentistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
3
Undergraduate Student, Orthodontic Research Center, School of Dentistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
10.30476/dentjods.2026.110243.2951
Abstract
Background: Non-syndromic cleft lip and/or palate (NSCL/P) is a common congenital deformity with a complex, multifactorial etiology involving genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors. Despite established risk factors, the teratogenic potential of herbal medicines- widely used during pregnancy due to their perceived safety- remains poorly understood, with limited and inconsistent evidence regarding their specific association with NSCL/P.
Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the association of maternal herbal medicine consumption on the risk of NSCL/P in newborns, addressing a critical gap in perinatal safety research within a population with prevalent phytotherapy practices.
Materials and Method: A retrospective case-control study conducted in 2024, we enrolled 160 participants (80 cases and 80 controls) using convenience sampling. Eligible cases were mothers of infants (1–6 months) diagnosed with NSCL/P, while controls were mothers of unaffected children. Herbal medicine use, demographic details, and socioeconomic status were collected via structured questionnaires. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests and estimation of crude odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using invariable logistic regression.
Results: Herbal medicine consumption was significantly higher among case mothers (66.25%) compared to controls (45.00%, p Value= 0.010). First-trimester use was notably prevalent in the NSCL/P group (94.33%). Specific herbs- lavender, chamomile, chicory, and borage flower- were associated with higher crude odds with increased risk of NSCL/P (p< 0.05). Maternal lavender use was associated with a 12-fold increase in the crude odds of NSCL/P. Sociodemographic disparities were evident: rural, illiterate, and lower-income mothers were significantly more likely to use herbal remedies. No significant associations were observed with mint, thyme, or alcohol/teratogenic medication use.
Conclusion: Maternal use of certain herbal medicines during pregnancy- particularly in the first trimester- may be associated with higher crude odds of NSCL/P in offspring. These findings underscore the need for heightened awareness, improved prenatal counseling, and stricter regulatory guidance regarding herbal product use during pregnancy, especially in low-resource and culturally herbal-dependent settings.
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