Synopsis

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

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. It is valued for its purported wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. While gotu kola is not as commonly cited as some other herbs for oral health, there are traditional references and folk uses where it is applied to support gum health, including for conditions resembling gingivitis. Its reported benefits stem from the belief that it can enhance connective tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and promote general healing of mucous membranes.

With respect to scientific validation, there are a limited number of in vitro and animal studies suggesting that gotu kola extracts can reduce inflammation and promote collagen synthesis, which could be beneficial for gingival health. However, clinical studies directly investigating the effects of gotu kola on gingivitis in humans are scarce. One small clinical trial suggested a potential benefit for oral mucosal healing, but robust, large-scale studies are lacking. Thus, while there is a traditional basis for its use in gingivitis and some plausible biological mechanisms, the scientific evidence is not strong or conclusive.

In summary, gotu kola's use for gingivitis is primarily justified by tradition (especially in Asian herbal practices) rather than strong scientific evidence. Further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for this specific oral health application.

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Nature's Sunshine Dieter's Cleanse
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Nature's Sunshine Men's Formula (With Lycopene)
Nature's Sunshine Mind-Max
Nature's Sunshine PS II
Nature's Sunshine SF
Nature's Sunshine SUMA (Combination)