The practice of keeping your mouth and teeth clean in order to prevent dental disorders is referred to as oral hygiene. Dental care consists of maintaining healthy teeth. Here Edsel Cook, Food.news, reflects on licorice root as a safe alternative for promoting oral health:

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“An important ingredient in classic candy is actually a safe and effective way of taking care of your oral health. Studies suggested that the dried root of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) can be used as a natural alternative to chemical toothpaste and harsh mouthwashes.

Licorice is mostly known for adding flavor to confectionery and foods. It has fallen out of favor, though, and so-called “licorice candy” is actually flavored with anise oil.

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Real licorice also saw wide use in herbal and traditional medicine in East Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. An important healing herb in the Chinese and Indian medicine systems, it was prescribed for cough, eye problems, gut issues, and skin problems.

New research has indicated that licorice could play an important role in dental health. (Related: Licorice herb contains neuroprotective compounds that benefit stroke patients.)

Licorice contains antibacterial compounds that protect the gums and teeth

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A study published in the Journal of Natural Products reported that dried licorice root could stop the onset of gum disease and tooth decay. The root can also serve as a direct treatment for oral health problems.

The researchers identified licoricidin and licorisoflavan A as the active compounds in licorice root that exerted antibacterial activity against microbes in the mouth. These natural chemicals inhibited the growth of oral bacteria associated with tooth decay, gum disease, and periodontal disease.

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There are also natural compounds called chalcones in the root. These are related to trans-chalcone, an antibacterial that disrupted the ability of disease-causing Streptococcus mutans to create biofilms in their environment.

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Biofilms protect the bacteria from antibacterial effects. When they are found in the mouth, they are called “plaque.” Preventing the formation of plaque will make it easier to get rid of oral bacteria.”

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