Evidence supporting the use of: Bistort
For the body system: Gums

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bistort (Polygonum bistorta) has a long history of traditional use, particularly in European herbal medicine, for supporting gum health and treating oral ailments. The root contains high levels of tannins, which are astringent polyphenolic compounds. Historically, bistort preparations—such as decoctions or mouthwashes—were used to tighten tissues, reduce bleeding, and soothe inflammation in the mouth and gums. This astringency is thought to help with minor bleeding and gum irritation, including conditions like gingivitis and mouth ulcers.

However, while the traditional use is well documented in herbal literature, such as in Culpeper’s Herbal and other historical pharmacopeias, there is a lack of robust scientific studies specifically validating bistort's efficacy for gum health in clinical settings. Most evidence remains anecdotal or based on historical practice rather than randomized controlled trials. Modern texts sometimes reference its traditional use, but contemporary dental research has not focused on bistort specifically. In summary, bistort is primarily justified for gum support by tradition, with only limited scientific rationale based on its tannin content and astringent properties, rather than direct clinical evidence.

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