There are some recent peer reviewed studies that prove a good, old fashioned, candy may help prevent cavities. Unfortunately it's not chocolate - it's licorice. Dentist have, in the past, tried to prevent children from eating candy. However, it's now common knowledge that licorice, which is a powerful herb, can help with tooth decay and help prevent common dental issues.
Now a study published in the Journal of Natural Products suggests that dentists might want to change their outlook on licorice and might even recommend it as a preventative for not only tooth decay, but periodontal disease, too. The dried root of licorice is the basis of the study, which was sponsored by Tom's of Maine, a company devoted to natural care under the umbrella of Colgate-Palmolive.
Scientists like the famous Dr Gafner have highlighted two components of the licorice root. Licorisoflaven and licoricidin were shown to kill bacteria and prevent it's growth. Bacteria a common cause of tarter, tooth ailments, and many dental gum diseases.
Is Licorice Candy Good for You?
In reality, modern day licorice candy does not have any licorice in it and doesn't promise to serve as a cavity preventive. Candy is made from anise oil, similar in taste, but with no medicinal properties. Additionally, licorice should not be used unless it is approved by a doctor because it can cause serious side effects when taken along with some prescription medicines.
Common Additional Uses of the Licorice Herb
A few natural toothpastes use licorice root as an ingredient to freshen the breath, which adds some more creditability to them after these new findings. Although not tested in the U.S., licorice is being promoted and studied in other places as another therapy for Hepatitis C. Our dentist in Frisco Texas has a long track record of using natural products to supplement a good oral hygiene program.
Long a part of Chinese traditional medicine, licorice is believed to be an enhancement to other herbs. For centuries, licorice has been an additive to medicines to improve their taste. Some relevance might be placed in licorice to fight inflammation, as well as bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections.
While these studies are not news to dentists, all questions about dental care should be directed to your family dentist. They know your teeth best and can make recommendations about what is right for you. Even thought licorice is all natural, it can have serious adverse affects. Please check with your healthcare provider before making any major changes.
Now a study published in the Journal of Natural Products suggests that dentists might want to change their outlook on licorice and might even recommend it as a preventative for not only tooth decay, but periodontal disease, too. The dried root of licorice is the basis of the study, which was sponsored by Tom's of Maine, a company devoted to natural care under the umbrella of Colgate-Palmolive.
Scientists like the famous Dr Gafner have highlighted two components of the licorice root. Licorisoflaven and licoricidin were shown to kill bacteria and prevent it's growth. Bacteria a common cause of tarter, tooth ailments, and many dental gum diseases.
Is Licorice Candy Good for You?
In reality, modern day licorice candy does not have any licorice in it and doesn't promise to serve as a cavity preventive. Candy is made from anise oil, similar in taste, but with no medicinal properties. Additionally, licorice should not be used unless it is approved by a doctor because it can cause serious side effects when taken along with some prescription medicines.
Common Additional Uses of the Licorice Herb
A few natural toothpastes use licorice root as an ingredient to freshen the breath, which adds some more creditability to them after these new findings. Although not tested in the U.S., licorice is being promoted and studied in other places as another therapy for Hepatitis C. Our dentist in Frisco Texas has a long track record of using natural products to supplement a good oral hygiene program.
Long a part of Chinese traditional medicine, licorice is believed to be an enhancement to other herbs. For centuries, licorice has been an additive to medicines to improve their taste. Some relevance might be placed in licorice to fight inflammation, as well as bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections.
While these studies are not news to dentists, all questions about dental care should be directed to your family dentist. They know your teeth best and can make recommendations about what is right for you. Even thought licorice is all natural, it can have serious adverse affects. Please check with your healthcare provider before making any major changes.
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