Garlic needs no introduction in the kitchen, but it’s far less familiar in the oral-care space—where it’s now getting attention as a potential natural alternative. In a systematic review conducted by researchers at the University of Sharjah and published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine, garlic-based mouthwashes were compared with traditional formulas to evaluate their effectiveness. Ahead, we’re breaking down the key takeaways from the report.
What the Study Found
“Chlorhexidine is widely used as a gold standard mouthwash but is associated with side effects and concerns over antimicrobial resistance,” the study’s authors note. “Garlic (Allium sativum), known for natural antimicrobial properties, has emerged as a potential alternative.”
Researchers found that garlic extract demonstrated antimicrobial activity comparable to antiseptics and disinfectants commonly used in mouthwash formulas. The study concluded that while garlic-based mouthwash may cause more discomfort than chlorhexidine, it may offer longer-lasting effects.
As expected, results varied based on concentration and duration of use. Notably, while chlorhexidine remains the preferred option overall, garlic extract proved more effective at certain concentrations.
Why the Research Matters
To look at garlic’s potential beyond the lab, researchers reviewed existing clinical studies that compared garlic extract directly with chlorhexidine. This approach helped them understand how garlic-based mouthwashes perform in real-world settings, not just under controlled conditions.
The review followed widely accepted research standards, and while the authors note that larger studies and longer follow-ups are still needed, the findings point to garlic extract as a promising area for further oral-care research.
Of course, the idea of garlic making its way into our oral-care routines may take some getting used to, but it’s certainly one to watch as the conversation continues.
