In traditional medicine the antibacterial properties of the tree are used for oral health and to treat medical complaints such bronchitis, pleurisy and venereal disease. Twigs from the tree are traditionally used as toothbrushes. ...Toothbrushing sticks are common in developing countries and have been used since prehistory. They seem to be every bit as effective as modern devices. The antimicrobial properties of certain species of wood may evern make them a superior solution.
The compound under research, diospyrin, binds to a novel site on a well-known enzyme, called DNA gyrase, and inactivates the enzyme. DNA gyrase is essential for bacteria and plants but is not present in animals or humans.
Don't expect the ADA to tell you that though. They get cash for putting their stamp of approval on all those plastic picks and flossers they recommend. I don't know about you, but I now get a whole bag of "free samples" every time I go to the dentist.
