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Some
formulations concocted by history''s earliest doctors were based more on
superstition than science. However, modern medicine is discovering-or
rediscovering-a few ancient treatments with true medicinal qualities.
One of these is honey, reports an article in General Dentistry, the
peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).
"Honey
was used in a poultice thousands of years ago," says Eric Curtis, DDS,
MAGD, spokesperson for the AGD, an organization of general dentists
dedicated to continuing education. "Over time, its uses were written off
as folklore."
While
honey is most often thought of as food, researchers are finding its
curative qualities for fighting wound infections quite effective--and
natural.
In fact,
research is beginning to prove honey''s effectiveness as an
antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent in treating oral problems,
such as periodontal disease, mouth ulcers and wounds from oral surgery,
as well as preventing the development of dry socket after tooth
extraction. What''s even more appealing to dentists is that despite
applying properly prepared honey on or near teeth, it won''t cause
cavities.
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Honey is
the result of ripened nectar mixed with enzymes from bees. These enzymes
contain antibacterial qualities. And because nectar is a plant
secretion, honey also can contain phytochemicals, some of which act as
antioxidants that prevent the erosion of tissue surrounding teeth as a
result of an infection. Unlike antibiotics, honey will not cause adverse
side effects.
However,
don''t rush to your local grocer and start stocking up on those
honey-filled plastic bears. "Honey can vary widely in the potency of its
antibacterial agents," Dr. Curtis says, "it needs to be specifically
selected and prepared for the purpose." And while antibacterial honey is
commercially available, honeys with high-levels of anti-inflammatory and
antioxidant qualities are still being researched. Also, honey, like
other foods, begins to dissolve once it comes in contact with saliva.
Work is being done to develop a gelled honey for wound dressings that is
slow to break down in the mouth.
This article provided by
www.healthnewsdigest.com |
