World · India Bureau
Ayurvedic expert recommends traditional twig brushing for dental health
Despite using commercial toothpastes and brushes, many Indians struggle with yellowing teeth and bad breath. Ayurvedic practitioners are reviving the traditional practice of using natural twigs as an alternative oral care method.
LSN India ·
Dental problems persist for many Indians even with regular use of expensive commercial toothpastes and brushes, prompting renewed interest in traditional oral hygiene practices. Ayurvedic health experts are advocating for the use of datun—natural twigs used as traditional toothbrushes—as an effective alternative for maintaining dental hygiene and freshness.
Ayurvedic scholar Acharya Balakrishna has detailed the proper methods for preparing and using twigs from neem, babul, and karanj trees as natural cleaning tools. These plant varieties have been used in Indian traditional medicine for centuries, valued for their antimicrobial and astringent properties that help combat tooth discoloration and oral malodor.
The practice involves using these natural twigs similarly to conventional toothbrushes by gently rubbing them against the teeth and gums. Proponents argue that this age-old technique offers a cost-effective and chemical-free approach to oral care, avoiding the synthetic additives commonly found in commercial dental products.
The revival of datun usage reflects a broader trend across India toward incorporating traditional Ayurvedic remedies into daily health routines. Healthcare practitioners suggest that combining traditional methods with modern dental practices may provide comprehensive oral health benefits for those seeking natural alternatives to commercial products.