Study Shows Matcha Green Tea Powder Mouthwash Fights Harmful Oral Bacteria

A study published in the journal Microbiology Spectrum found that the green tea powder often used in a variety of beverages, can actually inhibit the growth of P gingivalis, which is a periodontitis-causing bacteria found in the mouth. Found by researchers from the Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo, the National Institute of Infectious Disease and Tokyo, and other institutions in Japan, this study also indicates that people with periodontitis who apply matcha mouthwash reduced the amount of P gingivalis in their mouths.

This is all because of a vital ingredient in Matcha and, by extension, green tea—Camellia sinesis. Camellia sinesis is not only antimicrobial, but it also reduces the adherence of P gingivalis to epithelial cells in the mouth. External studies have also shown that those who regularly drink or consume green tea have better health outcomes.

The research process found that matcha extract eliminated almost all P gingivalis cells in a 2 hour period, with a full 4 hours eliminating all of these cells. The research was garnered from 45 different patients with periodontitis. Per the study’s authors, “Matcha may have clinical applicability for prevention and treatment of periodontitis.”

To read this study, visit the website here.