Enzyme-modified Coconut Oil, The Toothpaste of The Future
The researchers discovered that coconut oil prevents the growth of the majority of harmful mouth bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans, when treated with digestive enzymes (just as it would when ingested).
The thing with S. mutans is that it produces acid, which is the major contributor to tooth decay, and affects 60-90% of children and a large number of adults in industrialized countries.
Although plain coconut oil is extremely beneficial for fighting bacteria, new research reveals that enzyme-treated coconut oil is even more efficient, and may potentially destroy Candida Albicans, the yeast that triggers thrush.
According to lead researcher Dr Damien Brady, from the Athlone Institute of Technology in the Republic of Ireland, “Incorporating enzyme-modified coconut oil into dental hygiene products would be an attractive alternative to chemical additives, particularly as it works at relatively low concentrations. Also, with increasing antibiotic resistance, it is important that we turn our attention to new ways to combat microbial infection.”
And, that’s not all. Enzyme-modified coconut oil is also beneficial for your digestive health as well.
In the words of Dr Brady, “Our data suggests that products of human digestion show antimicrobial activity. This could have implications for how bacteria colonize the cells lining the digestive tract and for overall gut health.”
How To Use Coconut Oil For Better Oral Health
One of the greatest benefits of coconut oil for oral health is that it’s much safer that fluoride-laden toothpaste or mouthwash available on the market. Also, it’s equally, if not, more effective than commercial oral hygiene products.
Oil pulling
For this treatment, take a spoonful of extra virgin coconut oil and swish it around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes. Don’t swallow the oil because it’s full of harmful mouth bacteria. Rinse your mouth with water after the oil pulling.
Coconut Oil Toothpaste Recipe
This all-natural DIY toothpaste is very simple to make. All you need is:
-- ½ cup coconut oil
-- 2-3 tbsps. baking soda
-- 15-30 drops of peppermint essential oil
Make sure you melt the coconut oil before use. Mix it with the other ingredients then transfer into a glass jar and let cool. Use the mixture instead of your regular toothpaste.