What types of natural products can be used for our oral health?

One of the most studied substances in recent years is green tea, the unfermented product of Camellia sinensis leaves, whose polyphenolic components are catechins. The most important of these is epigallocatechin-3-gallate, which has beneficial effects on periodontal tissues and caries bacteria, whether consumed systemically or applied locally in toothpaste and mouthwashes, due to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it prevents the adhesion of bacteria, such as caries and periodontitis bacteria. Studies suggest adding to toothpaste may be an excellent active ingredient.

Another exciting product is curcumin, a compound extracted from turmeric. Its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are well known. Studies have shown that the use of a 0.1% curcumin mouthwash (dissolving curcumin extract in distilled water) in patients with gingivitis can be comparable to the effect of using a chlorhexidine mouthwash in reducing gingival inflammation and also reduces free radicals, so that clinical studies already suggest it as a potential alternative to chlorhexidine mouthwashes, due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Propolis, or propolis, is another well-studied natural substance. It is the name of a resinous, adhesive material produced by bees and collected from plant exudates, enriched with their saliva, and used by bees to construct hives. It is the bees' primary weapon against bacteria, viruses, and other parasites. The Egyptians already used it for embalming their dead and the Greeks to treat abscesses. Its antibacterial activity seems to depend on the synergy of its many components, including a type of polyphenol and flavonoids, which are potent antioxidants. In terms of oral health, it has been introduced as an active substance in mouthwashes, toothpaste, and even chewing gum, to prevent the accumulation of bacterial plaque and, consequently, the appearance of gingivitis.