Oral Care with Turmeric
Turmeric is a common Indian spice belonging to the ginger family. Notable for its yellow-orange color, it is one of the key ingredients in curry powder. It contains curcumin, a well-known anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compound.
Turmeric’s role as a home remedy for cavities is based mainly on its antimicrobial properties. A 2018 study shows that curcumin adversely impacts the metabolism and biofilm formation of S. mutans. Turmeric effectively removes cariogenic biofilm and the pathogenic microorganisms in it, thereby preventing the formation of tooth decay or arresting the progression of an already existing cavity.
Turmeric can be consumed in a variety of ways. Dried and ground turmeric can be served as a hot beverage, while raw turmeric roots can be consumed directly or added to salads and dishes. Arguably, the most effective way to use it for dental care is to make it sit longer in the mouth as a beverage or as a gargling solution.
Turmeric, however, contains ample amounts of oxalates. Thus, it is not advisable for those with kidney problems. Instead, it may be used as a gargle to minimize the amount of turmeric absorbed by the body.
