Prickly Ash (genus Zanthoxylum, unspecified species) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in North America and Asia. Traditionally, Native American and early Western herbalists utilized Prickly Ash bark and berries for various ailments, including as a remedy for toothaches, sore throats, and gum problems. The numbing and tingling sensation produced by Prickly Ash chewed bark or berries was thought to provide topical relief from oral discomfort and stimulate salivation, which could indirectly support gum health. This traditional use is primarily based on empirical observation rather than scientific validation. From a scientific standpoint, there is limited modern research specifically examining the effects of Prickly Ash on gum health. The plant contains alkaloids, lignans, and essential oils, some of which have demonstrated mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory settings. However, clinical trials in humans for its effectiveness in supporting gum tissue or treating periodontal disease are lacking. Therefore, while the traditional use of Prickly Ash for oral and gum health is well documented, robust scientific evidence to support these uses is minimal. Its support for the gums body system rests mainly on historical precedent rather than modern scientific validation.