A new study suggests that grape seed extract may inhibit the bacteria known to cause both bad breath and gum disease. Periodontitis is a gum disease that destroys the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. It’s estimated that up to 50% of North Americans suffer from the condition, thought to be the second most common disease worldwide.
Grape seed extract attacked the two main bacteria behind bad breath and gum disease.
In a lab setting, researchers investigated whether grape seed extract could inhibit Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, the bacteria responsible for both periodontitis and bad breath. They tested the effects of grape seed extract (97% polyphenols) on these two anaerobic bacteria.
They found that grape seed extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity against the two strains. Moreover, the grape seed extract could penetrate the biofilm that surrounded the bacteria. Biofilms protect bacteria against antimicrobial agents, and dental plaque’s biofilm is particularly complex.
The researchers concluded, "These findings indicated that grape seed extract could be used in oral hygiene for the prevention of periodontitis."
Source: Food Chemistry, Apr 15, 2009;113(4);1037-1040 [Epub ahead of print]
