Synopsis

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

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) has a long history in traditional medicine, including use for oral health. In folk medicine, oregano leaves and oil have been applied to wounds and used as an antimicrobial agent. The rationale for its use in gingivitis largely stems from its essential oil, which contains compounds like carvacrol and thymol—substances known for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

While oregano is traditionally used for oral health, scientific research specifically investigating its efficacy for gingivitis is limited and mostly preclinical. Some in vitro studies have shown that oregano oil can inhibit the growth of oral pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus mutans, which are implicated in gingival inflammation and dental plaque formation. Animal studies and small pilot studies point toward possible anti-inflammatory effects, but well-designed human clinical trials are scarce.

In summary, oregano's use for gingivitis is rooted in tradition and supported by laboratory evidence of antimicrobial activity. However, due to the lack of robust clinical trials in humans, the overall evidence is rated as 2—some promising preclinical data but insufficient clinical validation.

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