Evidence supporting the use of: Garlic bulb
For the health condition: Denture Sores

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Garlic (Allium sativum) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, including for oral health concerns such as denture sores. The primary rationale for its use lies in its well-known antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which are largely attributed to compounds like allicin. In traditional practices, crushed garlic or garlic juice has been applied topically to oral lesions, including sores caused by ill-fitting dentures, with the aim of reducing infection and promoting healing.

However, the scientific evidence supporting the direct use of garlic for denture sores specifically is limited. Most available studies focus on garlic's general antimicrobial efficacy against oral pathogens or its anti-inflammatory effects in broader contexts. Some in vitro studies show that garlic extracts can inhibit common oral bacteria and fungi, such as Candida albicans, which may be involved in denture stomatitis. Nevertheless, clinical studies directly evaluating garlic's effectiveness for denture-induced sores are sparse or lacking.

In summary, while the traditional application of garlic for denture sores is well-documented, and there is some mechanistic plausibility based on its known biological activities, robust clinical evidence is insufficient. Additionally, topical application of garlic can sometimes cause irritation or burns to the oral mucosa, so caution is advised. Anyone considering this remedy should consult with a dental professional.

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