Evidence supporting the use of: Acacia
For the body system: Teeth

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Synopsis

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

Acacia, particularly Acacia arabica (also known as gum arabic), has a long history of traditional use in oral health, especially in regions of Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. Traditionally, acacia twigs (miswak or chewing sticks) have been used as natural toothbrushes to clean teeth and promote oral hygiene. Historical records and ethnobotanical surveys document the use of acacia for strengthening gums, reducing plaque, and freshening breath. The astringent and antimicrobial properties of acacia extracts are believed to help maintain oral health and reduce oral pathogens. However, while in vitro studies suggest some antimicrobial effects, robust, large-scale clinical trials validating these claims are lacking. No substantial scientific evidence directly demonstrates that acacia alone significantly improves overall tooth or gum health compared to standard oral care. Thus, while its use for oral hygiene is well established in traditional practices, the scientific support remains limited. Acacia continues to be included in some herbal toothpastes and oral care products, primarily based on its historical use and preliminary laboratory findings.

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