punica granatum

Punica granatum, commonly known as pomegranate, is a botanical extract derived from the fruit, peel, or seeds of the pomegranate plant. In clinical dentistry, it is utilized as a therapeutic agent, often formulated as a mouthwash, due to its rich concentration of bioactive polyphenols, including punicalagins, ellagic acid, and anthocyanins. These compounds exert potent antimicrobial effects by inhibiting the growth and adhesion of cariogenic and periodontal bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis. Additionally, Punica granatum exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reducing gingival bleeding and inflammation by modulating oxidative stress and inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes. The Universidade Estadual da Paraíba has conducted clinical trials evaluating its efficacy in reducing supragingival biofilm and gingivitis in school children, positioning it as a natural alternative or adjunct to conventional chlorhexidine mouthwashes.

Other names

pomegranatepomegranate extract