Pomegranate Flavonoids for Oral Health
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria, which results in irritation and bleeding. Pomegranates (Punica granatum) contain polyphenolic flavonoids that exert activities that could be considered beneficial to oral health, i.e., may prevent the development of gingivitis. These activities that have previously been demonstrated include direct antioxidative effects (e.g., radical scavenging), indirect antioxidant effects (e.g., induction of endogenous antioxidant enzymes), anti-inflammatory effects, antibacterial effects, the ability to remove dental plaque from teeth, and the inhibition of bacterial sucrose digesting enzyme, which is responsible for the initiation of oral problems, including gingivitis.
