Periodontal diseases are inflammation of gums and bones surrounding and supporting teeth. In the early state, the gums can become red and swollen, and easily bleed. This state is called gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, in which the gums pull away from the teeth, bones can be lost, and the teeth may loosen or eventually fall out. Periodontitis is caused by toxins produced by bacteria in plaque contributing to inflammation. The treatments of periodontitis include scaling, root planning, and periodontal surgery. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs are applied together with those treatments. However, drug-related problems are frequently observed, such as altering taste perception, gastric ulcer, and brown stains on the teeth. The use of herbal extracts is of interest, presenting a new option for the treatment of periodontitis. Currently, anti-inflammatory activity of herbal extracts has been reported in periodontal cell cultures. In addition, it was effectively observed in animal model and human studies when using herbal extracts. Moreover, antibacterial against periodontal pathogens from naturally-derived pure compound and inhibitory effects of osteoclastogenesis from herbal extracts have also been recently reported. In summary, the herbal extracts have the potential to be developed as an adjunctive treatment for periodontitis.