Is gum care the next step in everyday wellness?
Maintaining good oral health and hygiene is not only essential for a confident smile but also for overall well-being. Traditionally, oral care meant choosing between minty or citrus-flavoured toothpastes and alcohol-based mouthwashes, each promising a brighter smile and fresher breath. In recent years, however, as conversations around wellness and conscious living have grown, interest in sustainable and holistic approaches to dental hygiene has gained momentum. This shift has brought botanical ingredients into the spotlight. Rooted in centuries of herbal tradition and now backed by growing scientific research, plant-based ingredients such as neem, miswak, pomegranate etc. are showing great promise in promoting stronger teeth and healthier gums.advertisementIndiatoday spoke with Dr Hariprasad, senior research scientist, Himalaya wellness company, to get more insights.WHY THESE INGREDIENTS?Botanical ingredients come from various parts of plants, such as roots, leaves, bark, seeds, and flowers.
They've been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine systems around the world for treating everything from wounds to inflammation. In oral care, these ingredients offer a wide array of benefits, including:Anti-inflammatory effects that help calm swollen or irritated gums. Antibacterial properties that fight plaque and harmful microbes in the mouth.Soothing compounds that promote healing of minor wounds, ulcers, or bleeding. Natural freshness, without the synthetic additives commonly found in commercial products.KEY PLANT-BASED INGREDIENTS1. Neem Widely used in Ayurvedic medicine, neem is known for its strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.Neem can inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary culprit in tooth decay.advertisementTraditionally, neem twigs were used as natural toothbrushes in many Indian households. Today, neem extracts form a crucial ingredient in toothpastes and mouthwashes, helping fight plaque, reduce gum inflammation, and prevent tooth decay.2. MintMint is valued not only for its refreshing flavour but also for its antimicrobial and soothing properties.The essential oils derived from mint, especially menthol, are effective at combating oral bacteria and freshen breath effectively. Mint also has mild anaesthetic properties, offering temporary relief from minor oral discomfort.Due to its invigorating taste and health benefits, mint is a staple in many toothpastes, mouthwashes, and chewing gums.3. XylitolXylitol is a natural sugar alcohol commonly found in fruits and vegetables, and it's well-known for its dental benefits.Unlike regular sugar, xylitol does not feed harmful oral bacteria and actively inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans.Regular use of xylitol, through oral care products, can help reduce plaque formation, neutralize mouth acidity, and prevent tooth decay. Besides, it stimulates saliva flow, which aids in natural remineralisation of teeth.4. PomegranateRich in antioxidants and polyphenols, pomegranate is a powerful natural agent for oral health.Its extracts contain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that target common oral pathogens, helping reduce plaque accumulation, soothe gum inflammation, and promote overall gum health.advertisementPomegranate is increasingly being incorporated into mouthwashes and toothpaste formulations for its therapeutic potential in maintaining oral hygiene.The above article is for information purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.Always seek the guidance of your dentist or other qualified health professional for any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.
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