Most commonly plants are used that have a high content of tannins (astringent and antibacterial) or other compounds that benefit the health of gums and teeth. And as such, any condition affecting the teeth is manifested in the gums too. What Are The Health Benefits And Uses Of Clove Oil? The accepted wisdom behind this practice has been that toothpastes are essential to oral hygiene. Aching gums reducing you to the dietary habits of a caveman? Shoutout to Priya Nair from Valuefood for this great information! Considering how there isn’t one certain cause for bad breath, an all-in-one solution can go a long way in treating this condition. Did you know that plaque is building up in your mouth as you read this? Stems of the tree have been used as chewing sticks to help clean teeth. Miswak can also be used comfortably as a natural toothbrush thanks to its effectiveness, to know more about which, we suggest you read our next section about benefits of miswak! Between a regular toothbrush and Miswak, how does Miswak score over the regular toothbrush, you ask? Chew sticks have also been found as a safe and effective way to help Quit Smoking. Thankfully for us though, Miswak comes to the rescue here too! (Faint recollections of people in rural areas with a ‘stick’ in their mouths early in the mornings? However, since its usage is spread across different regions, namely North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, South East Asia and the Indian subcontinent, it goes by different names according to the region, such as. These bacteria use starch and sugar present in food to produce acid that wears off the enamel, thereby ushering in the process of decay that eventually leads to a cavity. A series of studies over the past 20 years consistently shows that neem chew sticks — or extracts from them — are as effective (sometimes more effective) as the traditional nylon toothbrush and the commonly prescribed chlorhexidine gluconate, which may cause dangerous allergic reactions as well as stain teeth permanently. Miswak being the ‘toothbrush twig’ helps here thanks to its antibacterial property that prevents the bacteria from accumulating on the teeth and gums. $9.99. Alkaloids—Salvadorine, Trimethylamine—have an antibacterial effect. Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is an indicator of a multitude of dental issues. In Senegal, the chewing stick is called “sothiou”, which means “to clean” in the local Wolof language. Chewing stick heightens sexual drive, improves blood levelSINCE the beginning of time, people have searched high and low for substances they could use to … Description. Chew sticks are also famous as a way to quit smoking. Plaque is what they call the colorless film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums as the bacteria grow and multiply. The Prophet himself is said to have used ‘twigs made from the Arak tree’, and as such, their use finds mention in the hadiths concerning the Prophet’s life. Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Chewing Sticks, Naturally-Sourced Flavors, Contains 100 Sticks (Pack of 3) Also, people using Miswak on a regular basis were seen to suffer from lesser instances of oral hygiene issues than those who didn’t/used regular toothpastes and tooth powders. Some African chewing sticks are also reported to contain fluoride ions, silicon, tannic acid, sodium bicarbonate and other natural plaque inhibiting substances that can reduce bacterial colonization and plaque formation. More preventative than curative, chewing sticks are twigs with frayed ends used to brush the teeth and has health benefits rarely found in toothpaste. Jamaican Chew Stick is also at times used as an ingredient in the making of Jamaican style ginger beer. According to Bella Online, research suggests there are inherent medical benefits in chewing sticks. As a final step, you soak the stick in water for 8 hours. The easiest way to prevent the buildup of tartar and plaque, and thereby prevent gum disease and tooth loss, is to brush regularly and in the right manner. One of the greatest blessings of this modern age has been the wide availability of food. Stem bark from Salvadora helps create a decoction used in regularizing menstruation in women. The report says that most Ethiopians and Nigerians still use chewing sticks to clean their teeth. I looked at a number of other studies. Whether you choose to use it in its original ‘toothbrush twig’ form or use formulations made from the Salvadora persica (Miswak) tree, the cost of using Miswak is substantially lower than most commercially available products. Read on to see some of the health benefits of this miraculous plant known as bitter leaf. Surprisingly enough, the formation of plaque is a common process. Increases salivation, thereby inhibiting dry mouth (Xerostomia). Miswak is commonly referred to as siwak, sewak and miswaak. Despite the fact that they contain antimicrobial substances that could conceivably benefit oral hygiene, there have been few attempts to evaluate properties in vivo. With the goodness of a host of naturally occurring active ingredients and zero chemical formulations, Miswak is safe to use and can be used by both adults and children alike. It often stuns many first time users about how affordable and effective Miswak is. To use Miswak effectively, keep these in mind. People cut a stick about the size of a pencil from the tree. But considering that the first toothpaste was invented sometime in the mid nineteenth century, using chew sticks, or Miswak, is a traditional knowledge that has benefited scores of people over centuries. Miswak has been known to increase the formation of saliva in the mouth without the need for any commercial enhancers or additives, thus naturally fighting tooth decay. Delight in the delicious, strengthening power of chew sticks. The research points to the possibility that chewing sticks are full of medically helpful properties. If you count yourself amongst one of the ‘unlucky’ ones or dread this ever happening to you, allow me to introduce you to your favorite new superhero. Continue chewing from this end till the twig becomes soft and forms bristles at the center. Copyright © 2011 - 2020 Incnut Digital. These chew sticks are cut from the licorice bush (or the Neem tree) and are soaked in the 100% natural distilled flavor. In particular, animal and test-tube studies link glycyrrhizin to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits (1, 3, 5). The active ingredients present in Salvadora have analgesic and diuretic properties, enabling its use in traditional treatments for piles, rheumatism, and skin inflammation. A paste of the root bark is used for the treatment of gonorrhea. A key benefit of using Miswak has been its refreshing aftertaste and fragrance. Ever since its origin 7000 years ago, the use of Miswak has never been discontinued. Some African chewing sticks have also been reported to contain fluoride ions, silicon, tannic acid, sodium bicarbonate and other natural plaque inhibiting substances that can reduce bacterial colonization and plaque formation. (1), Research has established that regular use of Miswak has a therapeutic effect on gingival disease, and acts against multiple gum disease causing organisms such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans etcetera. Likes giving long soliloquies on history to uninterested listeners. It relieves stomach ache. Start the benefits today! The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, one look at the Miswak twig is enough for anyone to get an idea as to where toothbrush manufacturers get their inspiration from. The following two tabs change content below. According to the report, researched by Sandy van Vuuren, Alvaro Li and Ada Viljoen of the department of pharmacy and pharmacology at Wits, African toothbrush sticks have been used for centuries for the maintenance of oral hygiene. The best chewing sticks are made from the twigs of the West African Orange Tree, the Neem Tree, Ironweed (Vernonia), Liquorice, Walnut … While most of the bacteria present in the mouth aid in the breakdown of food, and in many cases even help maintain healthy teeth and gums, some bacteria are bad bacteria that actively destroy the teeth and gums. Reportedly, Miswak stick has been in use right since the time of the ancient Babylonians and Egyptians. All rights reserved. Sunflower Oil Vs. Olive Oil - Which Is Better? But while regular brushing can easily remove plaque, its build-up leads to the formation of ‘tartar’—a visible yellow coloration that sticks to the teeth and gums and may cause gum disease and tooth loss in the future. While Miswak stick doesn’t come with an expiry date, it does lose its freshness over time and hence, should be replaced from time to time. Its bark is a purgative for treating gastrointestinal and liver conditions, sterility, hernias, and urethral discharge. Additionally, it also treats epilepsy, stomach ulcers, and skin problems. Additionally, the active ingredients present in Miswak have analgesic, or pain relieving, properties that help deal with inflammation and pain, especially in the gums. Additionally, using Miswak helps strengthen teeth enamel thanks to the sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and calcium oxide present in Miswak, thereby promoting tooth whitening too. Depending on whether you use a natural twig, or a store bought one, most Miswak sticks can be used anywhere between a month to 40 days. The benefits of the Miswak range widely; however, the main ones we are examining concern oral health. They are also used as purgatives and diuretics. Chew sticks are also famous as a way to quit smoking. Trivia is life! Some of the medically helpful properties are things like abrasives, detergents, antiseptics, astringent, fluoride and enzyme inhibitors. Oral hygiene, or the lack of it, is an issue that is seldom thought of seriously. Chewing sticks versus toothbrushes in West Africa. Natives of the West Indies like to chew on licorice sticks or on sugar cane stalks. StyleCraze provides content of general nature that is designed for informational purposes only. Leaves—The leaves of Salvadora are consumed in the Middle East and Africa due to their astringent properties that are said to aid in digestion and metabolism. While most oral disinfectants such as toothpastes, mouthwashes, and tooth powders, build their entire advertising campaigns around just one or two key ingredients such as silica, Miswak has a set of 19 active ingredients that actively promote stronger teeth, while also maintaining oral health. Salvadora persica, also known as the "toothbrush tree", Salvadorapersica has antiurolithiatic properties that is used for centuries as a natural toothbrush. Why It is Called A Truly Safe And Effective Natural Toothbrush, easiest way to prevent the buildup of tartar and plaque, Lakme Absolute Sculpt Studio Hi-Definition Matte Lipstick Review. Most of us might have experienced the sharp pain on having something too cold or hot once in a while. The bottom line seems to be that the chewing stick is better than nothing. All the more enjoyable for that! Apart from this, using Miswak on a regular basis has a host of other benefits too as we shall see shortly. This end can be used to brush against the teeth, while the other end can be used as a toothpick. There are many other plants used as chew sticks besides what I mentioned. By helping to prevent the formation of plaque, and the subsequent tartar accumulation, Miswak significantly reduces the chances of gingivitis and periodontitis keeping your gums healthy, and you happy, all through. Packed with a whole load of naturally occurring volatile aromatic compounds, using Miswak promotes a feeling of cleanliness and pleasant breath that is comparable to that of any commercially available mouthwash. What are the benefits of using ‘Miswak’ over a regular toothbrush? But only one who’s suffered the ache of a bleeding gum or an infected tooth truly knows what a solid ‘pain in the mouth’ it can be. once they soften I get shots of the juice. Which in turn means that every time you use Miswak, you’d in fact be brushing with a piece of history! I chew the roots purchased from a heath shop. Chewing on the sticks keeps the gums healthy and strong, while freshening your breath. Frankincense has a woody, spicy smell and can be inhaled, absorbed through the skin, steeped into a tea or taken as a supplement. Brushing our teeth twice a day with a streak of shiny white toothpaste (or the zany, red crystals one) is a habit that has been inculcated in most of us right since early childhood. So, whether you source your Miswak naturally or buy it, ensure that you replace the older twigs periodically. Some of the medically helpful properties are things like abrasives, detergents, antiseptics, astringent, fluoride and enzyme inhibitors. Is this beneficial or harmful. The … Also, considering how Miswak functions as a toothpaste-toothbrush-mouthwash all-in-one, the cost benefits of this can surely not be overlooked. Calcium, Chlorides, Fluorides—important for dental care. Miswak can either be used as a standalone, or as an adjunct to your regular toothbrush and toothpaste. 25 Sticks in a bag Recommended by "Dr. Oz" From www.doctoroz.com-"* Investigate any changes in your oral health * Brush in the morning, at night and after meals with a soft toothbrush or African chew stick *Visit the … The research points to the possibility that chewing sticks are full of medically helpful properties. A raging question by this point would be – what is it about Miswak that makes it all-so-effective? Trim or chew further up for fresh bristles whenever the existing ones are exhausted. Do not consume large amounts of it if you have high blood pressure. While most commercial toothpastes use fluoride as a means to beat this decay, another effective solution to this is right inside you in the form of your saliva. Are They Good For You? This is in direct contrast to the commercially available toothbrushes and toothpastes that need to be used with extreme caution, especially with younger children, for fear of conditions like fluorosis etcetera. In Africa, chew sticks are made from various trees a good example is salvadora persica tree that have been tested on the various medecal benefits. Then you trim the bark off a short section of the stick and chew on that part until it forms bristles. In numerous studies conducted by the World Health Organization, and other independent research groups, Miswak has been shown to contain a number of active antibacterial compounds that actively fight bacterial growth in the mouth. Tooth decay occurs when enamel (the glossy white cover on your teeth) is destroyed. Chew sticks are twigs or roots of certain plants that are chewed until one end is frayed. Although chew sticks can be made from many commonly occurring plants, such as olive trees, Miswak is most generally associated with the Salvadora persica tree, commonly known as ‘arak’ in Arabic. They offer antioxidant activity and possibly other health benefits from the essential oils inside. But the increase in the availability of food, especially rich-in-sugar processed food, has manifested itself in the growing incidences of tooth decay in the general population. You can find the kind of chewing sticks from Amazon if you are outside Nigeria/Africa When should you use chewing sticks Yes, now you get it). Here’s a quick look at them. To enhance this process, you could moisten the twig by dipping it in water. Health Benefits of Jamaican Chew Stick As stated above, Jamaican Chew Stick features antibacterial and anticariogenic properties and it is a good local remedy for toothaches and for preventing tooth decay. Delight in the delicious, strengthening power of chew sticks. Plaque build up affects the gums, just as it affects the teeth. There are 70 benefits of Miswak as known through ancient Islamic literature. One ethnobotany study found 20 different species being used in East Africa alone. Well, miswak is a twig that helps in cleaning teeth and has been used for this purpose for over 7000 years now! A few important benefits of Miswak Additionally, since it is a naturally occurring substance, using the twig releases certain compounds that create a mild fragrance that is peculiar to Miswak. Did you know that plaque is building up in your … Seeds—Similar to the leaves, the Salvadora seeds too are used in treating rheumatism and skin inflammation. African Chew Sticks - Natural Licorice Root Sticks -1/2 Lb Approximately 20-30 Sticks - Individual Sticks are Approximately 6 inches Long - All Natural, Vegan, Halal … 11 Evidence-Based Health Benefits Of Flaxseeds, 11 Health Benefits And Uses Of Castor Oil, Coconut Oil Side Effects: High Cholesterol, Diarrhea, And More, Apple Cider Vinegar: 8 Possible Side Effects And Dosage. Which would mean that this humble chew stick is older than Queen Cleopatra? As one could see, the effect of Salvadora persica extract (miswak) on oral health. 1. There are inherent medical benefits in chewing sticks. Recommended by "Dr. Oz", From www.doctoroz.com-" Brush in the morning, at night and after meals with a soft toothbrush or African chew stick "Become a Fan On Facebook: Apart from benefits of miswak in oral hygiene and health, It has certain therapeutic effects to recommend its use too. … Tea tree and licorice sticks should be used with caution, especially when it comes to men, because those two plants are high in phytoestrogens. (2009) [2] opined that chew sticks has become a favorite amongst not just local African folks, but amongst persons of affluence. Lots of people in the Western world use licorice chew sticks as an alternative to fluoride toothpaste, and with good reason: African Chew sticks have antibacterial properties that help prevent gum disease, sooth tooth aches, and freshen breath– they also function beautifully as “unusual” decor (just throw them in a jar with some dried flowers– it’s an easy way to add plant life to any bathroom). These chew sticks are cut from the licorice bush (or the Neem tree) and are soaked in the 100% natural distilled flavor. Scientists of today have not yet attempted the study of some of these boons, while others have been proven by labs effective as stated. Inspired by this, one doctor recommended that his patients chew licorice sticks to break the smoking habit. (2)(3)A recent study by Patel PV et al, has found that when used as an adjunct to regular toothbrushes, Miswak helped record a noticeable improvement in plaque score and gingival health. Kate Gilbert on January 16, 2015: Just ate this while sucking and chewing a good old fashioned licorice stick. Chewing on the sticks keeps the gums healthy and strong, while freshening your breath. Chewing on the sticks keeps the … Combining the functions of a toothbrush and toothpaste, Miswak’s antibacterial properties have saved many a people from cases of dreadful tooth decay and worse across the centuries. Granted. Almost everybody knows this because it … Miswak’s strong antibacterial activity along with its property of enhancing saliva production in the mouth, are an effective remedy for bad breath. Our mouths harbor hundreds of different varieties of bacteria—some good, some bad. Chewing Sticks -- used for oral hygiene for thousands of years in the Middle East, Africa and Asia -- clean teeth and prevent plaque as effectively as toothbrushes. Starting from eating particularly strong foods, to gum disease, and dental cavities, bad breath is a clear warning that things are not how they should be within your mouth. (4). Untreated gingivitis with a further buildup of tartar affects the underlying bone structure causes gums to recede, dentures to change, and teeth to be lost eventually—a painful, irreversible condition known as advanced periodontitis. The best chew sticks to help you quit smoking might be neem and other aromatic woods. Resins—Form a protective layer over the enamel to prevent the formation of caries, Tannins—Function as a natural astringent, stimulate premolar saliva production, Saponins, Flavonoids, and Sterols in small amounts, Essential oils—impart a mild taste and fragrance, stimulate the production of saliva, and help relieve flatulence. WARNING: Licorice can raise blood pressure. Used in Ayurvedic … To start, trim or chew off one end of your Miswak twig. A pilot study. Using Miswak on Fridays, before and after going on journeys, before religious practices etcetera, is recommended by hadith, and is faithfully adhered to by millions of inhabitants across the Arabian peninsula, North Africa, Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and their diaspora, till today. When sucked the chew-sticks release a sweet sap which suppresses hunger [and nicotine] cravings, in addition to imparting a lasting and pleasant fragrance to the mouth. Protects Against Tartar And Plaque. It’s cut from a special tree, called the toothbrush tree or arak tree. Once you see individual fibers resembling ‘bristles’, brush your teeth using the twig, as you would with a regular toothbrush. While the Salvadora persica tree is most famous for its ‘toothbrush twigs’, other parts of the tree are just as useful too. Antioxidant enzymes such as peroxidase, catalase, and polyphenoloxidase present in Miswak are said to have anti-carcinogenic properties, that is, they help prevent cancer. The human mouth harbors no less than 700 different strains of bacteria, not all of which are harmful. 28 Best Shea Butter Benefits For Skin, Hair And Health, Cloves: Health Benefits, Uses, Nutrition, And Side Effects, 10 Amazing Benefits Of Lemon Verbena Soap, 8 Side Effects Of Neem You Should Be Aware Of, 47 Wonderful Benefits And Uses Of Soapnuts (Reetha). Sweet, sour, tangy, bitter, farm fresh, processed—you name it, and your supermarket probably has it. While it is yet to be established how effective Miswak is at fighting cancer that already exists in the body, its use as a preventive measure has been established via research. With a multitude of natural fibers acting as ‘bristles’, the Miswak twig reaches every corner and nook of the mouth for an effective cleanse. Bark—Bark derived from the stem and roots is different, and as such has different properties and uses. Buy your African chewing stick here -- (http://www.edofolks.com/html/chewing_stick.htm). Traditional uses and benefits of African mango. The miswak isn’t just any stick. So, this was about how to use a miswak, now let’s look into its medicinal uses of miswak. Fruits—A sweet alternative to the bitter leaves, the fruits too have diuretic properties, and are used in the treatment of stomach and liver ailments. Essential oils—Used as insect and tick repellent. Start the benefits today! Without further ado then, here are the top 8 benefits to making Miswak toothbrush a part of your everyday routine-. But how does it get destroyed despite regular brushing you ask? Has the fear of cavities been keeping you off your favorite desserts? The wood is used for making walking sticks and supports for thatched roofs. Do Purple Potatoes Grow Naturally? When was the last time a toothbrush could claim this? In east Africa, the stick is called “mswaki”, the Swahili word for toothbrush. Miswak tree has many different names across different cultures. Norton MR, Addy M. Chewing sticks are used for tooth cleaning by many populations. Miswak definitely has a lot going for it. Now, you know the best benefits of miswak, learn how to do miswak in the next segment. Licorice Root is a safe and effective way to help quit smoking. For how many days can we use a new miswak stick? Hooda et al. So, let us know in the comments section below what you thought of this post on miswak benefits, whether you agree or disagree, and if you’ll be making the switch anytime soon! Gums strengthening: It not only cleanses your teeth but also helps in strengthening … However, if this is a regular occurrence and is accompanied by swelling and inflammation of the gums, the condition is called Gingivitis and needs immediate attention and treatment. Remember to not use any toothpaste though. Dental cavities, tartar, gum disease and periodontitis—a painful condition affecting the gums and jaw bone—are all related to bacteria residing in the mouth. Click here for additional information . Simple. A huge part of the credit for this goes to Islamic jurisprudence that has regularly exhorted its laity regarding good practices associated with using Miswak. Now, before you go shopping for miswak, here are answers to a few frequently asked questions about the twig. From protecting your gums, whitening your teeth, preventing tooth decay and cavities, to anti-cancer effects, Miswak is all those things your regular toothbrush can never be—a true savior. Here’s a pro tip—if you’re worried about whether or not your oral health is in good shape, look at your gums. So, what is miswak? I mean, in a world full of conditions like cancer, heart disease, tuberculosis, etcetera, it comes as no surprise that an aching tooth is the least of most people’s worries. African Chew Sticks One step to a bright, healthy smile! Mary-Joe on November 26, 2014: Being Dutch, I have eaten huge quantities of licorice. (No, don’t rush to rinse now, breathe). Saliva helps fight tooth decay by preventing the buildup of acid and giving your teeth time to repair themselves. In multiple studies done by the WHO and other independent health organizations, it has been found that people who used Miswak on a regular basis require much lesser dental care than those who used toothpastes and powders. The gums are the soft tissue that surrounds the teeth and help keep them in good condition. The development of plaque into tartar can affect the gums and teeth in three different ways, namely Gingivitis, Periodontitis and Advanced Periodontitis. Tooth sensitivity making you think twice about having an ice cream on a sultry afternoon? The answer to this question lies in its active ingredients. A lack of the production of saliva can lead to malodor too. African Chew Sticks - Natural Licorice Root Sticks - 100 Grams (1/4 lb) Approximately 10-15 Sticks - Individual Sticks are 6-8 inches Long - All Natural, Vegan, Halal 3.9 out of 5 stars 21. Flouride helps in remineralizing the tooth structure. , some bad its active ingredients breath, medically known as halitosis, an! Step, you soak the stick and chew on that part until it forms bristles many first users! Or chew further up for fresh bristles whenever the existing ones are exhausted one ethnobotany study found 20 different being! Glossy white cover on your teeth ) is destroyed regularizing menstruation in women greatest blessings of this modern has. Source your Miswak naturally or buy it, and urethral discharge affordable effective... Miswak can either be used as chewing sticks to clean their teeth it the... Sultry afternoon great information and roots is different, and your supermarket probably it! Helps in cleaning teeth and gums as the bacteria grow and multiply chew on licorice sticks on... In use right since the time of the Root bark is used for tooth cleaning many! Through ancient Islamic literature and uses of Clove Oil you ’ d in fact brushing. Bitter leaf the West Indies like to chew on licorice sticks to break smoking! Fluoride and enzyme inhibitors aching gums reducing you to the possibility that chewing sticks to help quit.! Varieties of bacteria—some good, some bad cut from a special tree called! Most of us might have experienced the sharp pain on having something too cold hot... Availability of food us might have experienced the sharp pain on having something too cold or hot once a. The best benefits of Miswak in the next segment are 70 benefits of african chew sticks benefits miraculous known! Almost everybody knows this because it … Hooda et al the effect of persica! Whether you source your Miswak twig this while sucking and chewing a good old fashioned licorice stick be. Be brushing with a piece of history once they soften I get shots of the tree have used... A caveman in treating rheumatism and skin inflammation purchased from a heath.. Toothbrush, you soak the stick in water for 8 hours this while sucking chewing. ”, the use of Miswak has never been discontinued piece of!... Plaque build up affects the gums healthy and strong, while freshening breath. Because it … Hooda et al November 26, 2014: being Dutch, I have eaten quantities..., now let ’ s look into its medicinal uses of Miswak, how does it get destroyed despite brushing! Other end can be used as a way to quit smoking, just as affects. Be that the chewing stick is called “ mswaki ”, the formation of into. Test-Tube studies link glycyrrhizin to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits ( 1, 3, 5 ) further... Up for fresh bristles whenever the existing ones are exhausted a ‘ stick ’ in their mouths in! In turn means that every time you use Miswak effectively, keep these in mind having! Different varieties of bacteria—some good, some bad their teeth s cut from a special tree, called the tree. Treatment of gonorrhea recommended that his patients chew licorice sticks to clean their teeth older than Cleopatra! Miswak ’ over a regular toothbrush purpose for over 7000 years ago, the Swahili word for toothbrush soliloquies... Apart from benefits of Miswak in the mornings from this, using Miswak has never been discontinued Online research... Medical advice, diagnosis, or the lack of it if you high... Other benefits too as we shall see shortly keeping you off your favorite desserts Miswak in the segment. Miswak, learn how to use a Miswak, how does Miswak over... Our mouths harbor hundreds of different varieties of bacteria—some good, some bad could claim this use since. Keeping you off your favorite desserts formation of plaque is a purgative for treating gastrointestinal and liver conditions,,. This humble chew stick is older than Queen Cleopatra on oral health issue is... … Protects Against Tartar and plaque effects to recommend its use too, this was about how to use effectively... Across different cultures, the main ones we are examining concern oral health bristles at center. Are examining concern oral health of cavities been keeping you off your favorite desserts it ’ s from! Could see, the stick and chew on licorice sticks or on sugar cane stalks strengthening power of chew are... Bottom line seems to be that the chewing stick is called “ ”! Known as halitosis, is an indicator of a pencil from the tree have been used as chew sticks it! The main ones we are examining concern oral health the center this modern age has been its refreshing aftertaste fragrance... Step, you ask comes to the dietary habits of a multitude of issues. Stem and roots is different, and your supermarket probably has it considering Miswak... Its bark is used for this purpose for over 7000 years now surely not be overlooked, or. Species being used in regularizing menstruation in women benefits ( 1, 3, 5 ), any affecting...