Oral health issues such as plaque and gingivitis are often caused by bacteria accumulating on teeth and gums. The use of toothpaste made from natural antimicrobial ingredients is increasingly popular as an alternative to reducing synthetic chemical usage.
A study conducted by Prof. Dr. drg. Juni Handajani, M.Kes., Ph.D. Prof. Dr. drg. Juni Handajani, M.Kes., Ph.D., titled “Antimicrobial Effect of Toothpaste Containing 2% Tea Leaf Extract (Camellia sinensis) on A. actinomycetemcomitans”, showed that tea leaf extract is effective as a strong antimicrobial against bacteria that cause periodontal infections and dental plaque. Tea leaf extract from Camellia sinensiscontains polyphenols, catechins, and tannins, which have antioxidant properties and can inhibit bacterial growth. These compounds can inhibit the growth of A. actinomycetemcomitans, the main bacterium responsible for oral and gum health disorders.
This natural toothpaste is developed to harness the antimicrobial effects of medicinal plants, such as tea leaves, with the goal of helping to prevent and reduce oral infections safely and naturally. Tea leaf extract in the toothpaste formulation can protect teeth from bacteria that cause caries, plaque, and periodontal diseases—without harmful side effects.
Other Medicinal Plants
In addition to tea leaves, many other medicinal plants such as flowering herbs, aloe vera, and lemongrass have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and can potentially be developed as active ingredients in natural toothpaste. Using these natural ingredients is not only safe but also environmentally friendly and sustainable, supporting plant-based approaches in dentistry.
Developing toothpaste with medicinal plants that have antimicrobial effects is an innovative approach to improving oral health naturally and safely. This research and innovation are expected to provide effective, eco-friendly oral care alternatives while strengthening sustainable efforts to prevent dental and oral diseases.
References
MKGI, Prof. Dr. drg. Juni Handajani, M.Kes., Ph.D., ntimicrobial Effect of Toothpaste Containing 2% Tea Leaf Extract (Camellia sinensis) on A. actinomycetemcomitans, https://jurnal.ugm.ac.id/mkgi/article/view/15592
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
