Garlic inhibits microbial growth in the oral cavity better than chlorhexidine.
Garlic may serve as a substitute for chemical mouthwashes — this conclusion was reached by researchers at the University of Sharjah. In a review published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine (JHM), the scientists demonstrated that garlic extract inhibits microbial growth almost as effectively as chlorhexidine — the primary antiseptic used by dentists for decades.
The use of chlorhexidine is limited by side effects: taste alteration, tooth staining, and the risk of developing antiseptic-resistant microbes. Garlic, on the other hand, possesses natural antibacterial properties due to allicin and leaves a longer-lasting residual effect. The main downside is the characteristic odor and possible burning sensation, which may make it more difficult for patients to use such a solution daily.
The review included data from five clinical studies comparing garlic solutions of varying concentrations with chlorhexidine. In some cases, the garlic mouthwash even outperformed the chemical counterpart in reducing bacterial load, although a higher concentration was required for consistent results.
The authors emphasize that garlic will not replace comprehensive dental therapy, but it can already be considered a natural alternative in situations where the use of chemical antiseptics is undesirable.
