As surprising — and as pungent — as it sounds, scientists say garlic could become an effective ingredient in future mouthwashes.
Researchers from the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates have found that garlic extract may offer longer–lasting antibacterial protection than some of the leading brands on the market. Their conclusion comes from a meta–analysis combining results from five different studies assessing garlic’s oral health benefits.
According to the findings, a mouthwash made with high concentrations of garlic extract can be just as effective as chlorhexidine — the widely used antiseptic found in well-known products like Corsodyl, Covonia, and Savlon. In fact, the study suggests garlic may even provide longer-lasting bacterial reduction.
The authors say the results indicate that garlic-based mouthwash could be a “viable alternative” to chlorhexidine in certain dental products. However, they do acknowledge a few drawbacks, including more discomfort during use and, inevitably, garlic’s distinctive smell.
One of the reviewed studies showed that participants using garlic mouthwash experienced a greater reduction in oral bacteria than those using chlorhexidine, reinforcing garlic’s natural antimicrobial strength.
Chlorhexidine, though considered the gold standard, can lead to side effects such as tooth staining, altered taste, and a burning sensation. Garlic extract also caused some discomfort and unpleasant odor, but researchers note that these effects were generally less severe than those associated with chemical antiseptics.
The analysis found that using a 3% garlic extract mouthwash for one week was “significantly more effective” at reducing salivary bacteria than a 0.2% chlorhexidine rinse. Still, the team emphasizes the need for further large-scale, long-term clinical trials before garlic can be confidently recommended in dental practice.
Garlic has long been recognized for its potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties, thanks largely to compounds such as allicin and other sulfur-based molecules. These natural compounds have already been used in health products targeting immunity, circulation, and heart health.
While the idea of a garlic-flavored mouthwash may not appeal to everyone, researchers say its potential benefits warrant continued investigation.
