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Review
. 2015 May;36(5):530-43.
doi: 10.15537/smj.2015.5.10785.

A review of the therapeutic effects of using miswak (Salvadora Persica) on oral health

Mohammad M Haque  1 , Saeed A Alsareii
Affiliations
Review

A review of the therapeutic effects of using miswak (Salvadora Persica) on oral health

Mohammad M Haque et al. Saudi Med J. 2015 May.

Abstract

Miswak is a traditional chewing stick prepared from the roots, twigs, and stem of Salvadora persica and has been used as a natural method for tooth cleaning in many parts of the world for thousands of years. A number of scientific studies have demonstrated that the miswak (Salvadora persica) possesses antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-cariogenic, and anti-plaque properties. Several studies have also claimed that miswak has anti-oxidant, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects. The use of a miswak has an immediate effect on the composition of saliva. Several clinical studies have confirmed that the mechanical and chemical cleansing efficacy of miswak chewing sticks are equal and at times greater than that of the toothbrush. The present article provides a review of the various therapeutic effects of Salvadora persica on oral health, which will help to elucidate the significance and importance of this indigenous oral hygiene tool.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Typical chewing sticks (Miswak) prepared from Salvadora persica of different diameters.
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