Schisandra helps fight gingivitis (inflamed and bleeding gums)

A tip you can sink your teeth into

A couple of weeks ago, I passed along a tip on an all-natural green algae mouthwash that can help keep your gums healthy. Here’s another secret to fighting gingivitis (inflamed and bleeding gums)–and short-circuiting the chain reaction it sparks that increases your risk of heart disease and stroke.

It’s all about a supplement called Schisandra, which is an extract from the Schisandra berry–a favorite of the ancient Chinese emperors. For thousands of years, they used a tonic made from this berry to increase stamina and mental clarity, and fight fatigue and stress.

But medical science has revealed that Schisandra may offer far more intriguing benefits. Studies have focused on specific antioxidants in the berry called gomisins, revealing that they fight disease-causing inflammation throughout the body.

In one recent study, researchers found that gomisins work by blocking pro-inflammatory chemicals called tumor necrosis factor-a, interleukin-1ß, and interleukin-6–and, specifically, that gomisins help prevent gingivitis.

Along with flossing, regular dental checkups, and the green algae mouthwash I told you about previously, Schisandra might be another easy way to boost your protection from gum disease–and the downward spiral of serious health problems it can cause. Look for Schisandra supplements in your local health food store, or online. (To learn more you can also read my past Reality Health Check on green algae).