The role of herbal products to maintaining healthy oral hygiene with a closer look at oil pulling.

Herbal products are highly preferred due to their safety in conventional doses, within the budget prices and accessibility. Different plants have been considered to be effective in maintaining healthy oral hygiene, including Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha), Mastic (Pistacia lenticus), Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) and etc. Plants have different properties which are useful for prevention of periodontal and teeth-related diseases; anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and gum protection to name a few. Oil pulling is an Ayurveda-based treatment in which swishing herbal oils,

coconut oil, sunflower oil and sesame oil, for 10-15 minutes is considered to reduce pathogen bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus fecalis, which are known today; also have anti-fungal activity against Candida albicans; resulting in healthier mouth and elimination of bad breath. Deeper studies are required to further our knowledge about the effectiveness of traditional treatments. The aim of this study is to provide a more comprehensive concept about herbal products, especially natural oils, which are widely used for oral cavity protection.

Author(s): Niusha Esmaealzadeh1

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