Ginger For Oral Health

Ginger is among the many herbs and spices that contain hundreds of compounds that benefit our health. Several studies have shown the ginger possesses anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial in healing persons with osteoarthritis, may significantly reduce menstrual pain, improve brain function and other inflammatory conditions. Regularly consuming this well-known spice is believed to improve a person’s overall health.

Ginger And Our Overall Oral Health

Maintaining oral health is one of the many benefits of ginger. It has antibacterial properties that help prevent the buildup of bacteria and plaque. These properties are the result of the oil, resin, starch, and spices found in ginger. By slowing down the growth of bacteria and reducing gingivitis, ginger can speed up the recovery process that comes with treatment. On the other hand, its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce pain associated with toothaches (1,2).

Ginger contains nutrients that can support our teeth and protect them from decay.

Raffinose, a strong bacteria exterminator and a key ingredient in ginger, prevents sugars from affecting our gums and teeth. It works by preventing the formation of bacteria on the surface of our teeth, relieves pain, swelling, and infections related to toothaches, and prevents inflammatory diseases like periodontal disease, which diminishes bone and tissue in your mouth (3,4).

Meanwhile, its active component known as gingerol kills off bacteria in our mouth and reduces swelling and inflammation (3).

To reap the greatest benefits from ginger for our oral health, it is recommended to chew on some raw, organic ginger root. Allow the ginger juice to swish around the mouth for about 5 minutes.

Another popular way of consuming ginger is by brewing ginger tea. It provides warm, soothing liquid over the treatment areas. It also has a calming effect on the body. Simply take a small slice of ginger and hot water. Cut a thin slice from the root and remove the outside skin.  Place the piece of ginger in a mug and then pour hot water over the ginger slice. Add some honey for additional flavor and enjoy.

We may also add powdered ginger to your meals. It also goes well in stir-fry, soups, and smoothies.

Doing this may help us prevent oral infections, cavities, gingivitis, and remove plaque.

Sources:

  1. https://www.excellentdentalspecialists.com/ginger-can-help-your-mouth-feel-better-during-gum-disease-treatments/
  2. https://www.feltfamilydentistry.com/how-ginger-can-boost-your-oral-health/
  3. https://www.orthodonticslimited.com/teeth/foods-good-for-teeth/#:~:text=Ginger%20helps%20remove%20plaque%20and,main%20ingredients%20Gingerol%20and%20Raffinose.
  4. https://www.dentistcorpuschristitexas.com/oral-health-benefits-ginger/