FORGET minty freshness or that reassuring antiseptic taste - the next big flavour in mouthwash could be garlic.
Yes, really.
Researchers from the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates have reported that mouthwash containing high concentrations of the pungent extract can provide longer-lasting protection than products containing chlorhexidine.
"Chlorhexidine is widely used as a gold standard mouthwash but is associated with side effects and concerns over antimicrobial resistance," the authors wrote in the Journal of Herbal Medicine.
They suggested that garlic, which is known for its natural antimicrobial properties, is a potential alternative.
The research found that over the course of a week, a 3% garlic extract mouthwash was significantly more effective in reducing the amount of salivary bacteria compared to a 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash.
The authors acknowledged there were some side effects, which included mouth discomfort and, yes, the smell.
They recommended further clinical research involving larger sample sizes and a longer follow-up to confirm its effectiveness.
Any volunteers?
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