Evidence supporting the use of: Garlic pear
For the health condition: Toothache
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Garlic pear (Crateva religiosa, also known as Crateva nurvala) is traditionally used in various systems of folk medicine in South Asia for a range of ailments, including as a remedy for toothache. Historical records and ethnobotanical surveys indicate that parts of the garlic pear tree—especially the bark and leaves—have been applied topically or chewed to relieve dental pain. The rationale is based on the plant's reported anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, as recognized in Ayurvedic and other traditional medicinal literature.
However, current scientific validation for the efficacy of garlic pear in treating toothache is limited. Few laboratory studies have investigated its phytochemical composition, revealing the presence of compounds with potential anti-inflammatory activity, but direct studies related to dental pain relief are lacking. There are no clinical trials or robust preclinical studies specifically addressing its use for toothache.
In summary, the use of garlic pear for toothache is primarily justified by tradition, with anecdotal and ethnobotanical support but minimal scientific evidence. The strength of evidence is rated low (1/5), reflecting the lack of rigorous scientific studies corroborating its effectiveness for this particular condition.