Miswak: Middle Eastern Toothbrush Tree
It's amazing how many Arabs and Middle Easterners have magnificent, strong, pearly white teeth and beautiful smiles. That's because they chew on the branches of
Miswak (Salvadora persica), which has been called the Toothbrush Tree, after meals to cleanse their teeth and freshen their breath. They always keep a branch handy in their pockets to chew on whenever the opportunity presents itself.
Chewing on Miswak regularly strengthens the gums, prevents tooth decay, and eliminates toothaches. Using Miswak can halt the further spread of tooth decay that has already set in.
In scientific studies, Miswak extract proved comparable to other oral disinfectants and anti-plaque agents. In another study, Miswak was shown to be more effective than tooth brushing for dental hygiene - that is, if it was used properly.
When chewed, Miswak has a fresh, spicy flavor, somewhat like a milder version of horseradish. Chewing on Miswak regularly creates a good fragrance in the mouth and eliminates bad breath.
The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the use of Miswak in its 1996 and 2000 international consensus reports on oral hygiene. Scientific studies show that it has a broad spectrum effectiveness against many different types of bacteria commonly found in the mouth.
Miswak has other uses as well. It has been used to help people overcome nicotine addiction and the smoking habit. And the tenacious roots of the Miswak tree fix the soil, preventing soil erosion and desertification, or the spread of deserts.
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