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

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Catechu (commonly derived from the heartwood of Acacia catechu) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, for supporting oral health and gum care. Historically, catechu extracts have been used as an ingredient in herbal tooth powders and mouthwashes intended to strengthen gums, reduce bleeding, and promote general oral hygiene. The traditional rationale is largely based on catechu’s astringent properties, which are thought to help tighten gum tissue and reduce inflammation.

While there is some laboratory evidence indicating catechu has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, clinical studies specifically evaluating its effectiveness for gum health or periodontal disease in humans are limited and generally of low quality. Most support for its use comes from ethnomedicinal practices and long-standing oral care traditions in South Asia. Modern herbal toothpastes and powders sometimes include catechu for its astringent and antimicrobial qualities, but robust scientific validation in the context of gum health is lacking.

In summary, the use of catechu to support the gums is primarily justified by tradition, with moderate historical and anecdotal evidence but only preliminary scientific support. The overall evidence rating is 3, reflecting substantial traditional use and limited but suggestive scientific findings.

More about Catechu
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Products containing Catechu

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