Evidence supporting the use of: Prickly Ash Bark
For the body system: Gums

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Synopsis

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

Prickly Ash Bark (Zanthoxylum americanum) has a long history of traditional use in North American herbal medicine, particularly among Native American and early European settlers, for supporting oral health and gum conditions. It has been used in various forms—such as poultices, infusions, or chewed directly—to ease toothache, stimulate saliva flow, and promote gum health. The bark contains compounds like alkaloids (e.g., chelerythrine), flavonoids, and essential oils, which are thought to contribute to its stimulating, warming, and antimicrobial effects.

However, the evidence supporting its effectiveness for gum health is primarily anecdotal and based on traditional herbal practices. There are very few modern scientific studies specifically investigating prickly ash bark’s impact on gum disease, oral bacteria, or overall oral health. The limited available research focuses mainly on its general antimicrobial and circulatory stimulant properties, rather than direct effects on gum tissue.

In summary, while prickly ash bark has a well-documented history of traditional use for gum and oral support, scientific validation is lacking. Its use in contemporary herbal formulations for gum health is based on this tradition rather than robust clinical evidence.

More about Prickly Ash Bark
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