Consuming compounds from a Chinese herb, Glycyrrhiza uralensis, which is commonly referred to as liquorice root or Chinese liquorice, appear to be effective in fighting bacteria that cause tooth decay. Chewing liquorice has been a practice in different cultures. Many Chinese medicinal herbs contain antimicrobial compounds that could be used for health purposes. Liquorice contains anti microbial compounds. Researchers from the University of California at Los Angeles' School of Dentistry studied 2,000 commonly used Chinese herbs. They evaluated each of the herbs for potential antimicrobial properties and observed some of the strongest activity in experiments involving liquorice root. They found that at least two compounds from the herb inhibited the growth of Streptococcus mutans, the primary bacteria responsible for causing dental caries and cavities. In fact, liquorice root's antimicrobial activity was seen in a number of experiments, including those involving human saliva and dental plaques. The findings imply a possible benefit for promoting oral health with liquorice extracts. Yet, more studies are needed before consumers start using liquorice to prevent cavities.
Journal of Natural Products ,
February 2006