Ian E Cock1,2
1School of Environment and Science, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, AUSTRALIA.
2Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, Queensland, AUSTRALIA.
DOI: 10.5530/pc.2024.3.20
ABSTRACT
Periodontal (gum) disease is a serious disease that may result in bones retracting from teeth, loss of teeth (or bone) and halitosis (bad breath). In its early stages (gingivitis), the gums may become swollen, inflamed and may bleed. Numerous plants have been used in traditional medicine systems to prevent and treat periodontal disease, with many plants highlighted for their efficacy.1-4 A recent study reported that matcha tea (prepared from finely ground Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze powder) inhibits the growth of the bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis, which is one of the main bacteria that cause gingivitis and periodontitis.5 Indeed, MIC values as low as 125 μg/mL were reported against this bacterium, indicating that the extract is a potent inhibitor.