Positive Health Online

Abstract

ALKHAWAJAH, Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia writes that Juglans regia L. bark is used as a toothbrush and a cosmetic lip colourant dye in some countries.

Background

Methodology

Results

This bark extract showed a broad spectrum antimicrobial activity in a dose-dependent manner, inhibiting the growth of several pathogenic micro-organisms, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans , gram-positive bacteria, and Esherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, gram-negative bacteria and the yeast Candida albicans . The bark extract had either synergistic or additive anti-microbial action when used with a wide range of antibacterial drugs. Its action also increased saliva pH.

Conclusion

Brushing the teeth with this bark may help to improve oral hygiene, prevent plaque, cavity formation and reduce gingival and periodontal infections.

References

Alkhawajah AM. studies on the antimicrobial activity of juglans regia . Am J Chin Med 25(2): 175-80. 1997.

Comment

As the above two studies illustrate, there is a significant research effort internationally devoted to detecting antimicrobial and antifungal activity among herbal and plant materials. In view of the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance to the widespread use of antibiotics, this type of research and these results will gain in importance as time progresses.