Synopsis

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

Myrrh has a long history of use in traditional medicine for oral and gum health. It has been employed in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Chinese medicinal practices, primarily for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties. Myrrh resin and its preparations have been used as a mouthwash, in tooth powders, and as an ingredient in tinctures to help soothe sore gums, treat mouth ulcers, and reduce oral inflammation. Its bitter taste and resinous quality were believed to help tighten gum tissue and reduce bleeding.

Modern scientific studies on myrrh for gum health are limited, but laboratory research has demonstrated that myrrh extracts possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity, which could theoretically benefit oral health. For example, in vitro studies have shown that myrrh can inhibit the growth of several oral pathogens, including those implicated in gingivitis and periodontitis. Some small human studies and clinical trials have investigated myrrh-containing mouth rinses or gels, with mixed but generally positive outcomes in reducing gum inflammation and bleeding. However, the quality and size of these studies vary, and robust clinical evidence is still lacking.

Overall, myrrh’s use for supporting gum health is primarily justified by traditional use, supported to some extent by preliminary scientific findings, but not yet substantiated by large, high-quality clinical trials.

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