The Benefits of Licorice Root for Teeth

Scientists are reporting identification of 2 substances in licorice , used extensively in Chinese traditional medicine that kill the major bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease . In a study that appeared recently in the Journal of Natural Products , they say these substances could have a role in treating and preventing these afflictions . Scientists found that 2 licorice compounds , licoricidin and licorisoflavan A , were the most effective antibacterial substances , capable of killing 2 of the major bacteria responsible for cavities and 2 of the bacteria that promote gum disease . One of the compounds , licoricidin , also killed a third gum disease bacterium . The researchers stated that these substances could one day treat or even prevent oral infections .