Evidence supporting the use of: Arnica (unspecified)
For the body system: Gums
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Arnica, typically derived from the flower Arnica montana, has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for its purported anti-inflammatory and healing properties, primarily when applied topically. In the context of oral health and supporting the gums, arnica has been used in traditional remedies, particularly in homeopathic preparations, to help reduce swelling, bruising, and inflammation associated with minor injuries or dental procedures. However, the traditional use of arnica for gum health is not as prominent or well-documented as its use for musculoskeletal complaints. There are anecdotal reports and some herbal texts that mention its application for sore gums or after dental extractions, but robust scientific studies are lacking.
From a scientific perspective, there is minimal direct evidence supporting the effectiveness of arnica for gum health. Most studies focus on its topical use for bruises and muscle pain, not oral applications. Additionally, arnica should not be ingested in its raw form, as it can be toxic. Homeopathic arnica, which is highly diluted, is sometimes marketed for oral health, but scientific validation for its efficacy in this context is weak or absent. Therefore, while there is some traditional precedent, the evidence supporting arnica’s use for gum health is limited, and it should be approached with caution.
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citrus bioflavonoids
citrus sinensis (proprietary)
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omega-3 fatty acids
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vitamin K
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