Almost two years ago I posted a link on Debra’s List for a miswak. I didn’t make a big deal out of it because it was the only one and the first of it’s kind and I hadn’t tried it.
“I still haven’t tried it, but suddenly this past week I became aware of three websites selling miswaks, and posted them as well, and there may be even more, and more coming. I think it’s time to get one and try this out.”
So I thought I’d better tell you what it is.
A miswak is a natural “tooth-stick” made from a tree branch. Cut specifically from the tree ‘Salvadora persica’ it has a unique chemical composition that works exceptionally well to naturally clean and whiten teeth. It’s not a new thing. This is a traditional and natural alternative to the modern toothbrush, known to be in use for more than 7000 years and is still used today in Arabic countries, India, and parts of Africa.
The Journal of Health says, “It it has been found that if a miswak is used correcly, then it is more effective in reducing plaque and gum disease than that of a toothbrush due to its antibacterial properties and brushing action.”
It’s toothbrush, toothpaste, and tooth whitener all in one. It requires no water or toothpaste, so you can carry it with you and use it at any time.
These tooth-sticks are also free from chemicals and pesticides. They are just sticks in their natural state. But very special sticks with unique characteristics that are perfect for our teeth.
I love products like this which provide a completely natural, non-industrial alternative to a common industrial product, and outperforms us. It just reaffirms my belief that everything we need to be healthy exists in Nature. We just need to find it and use it.
JOURNAL OF AYURVEDA AND INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE: Miswak: A Periodontist’s Perspective
WIKIPEDIA: Miswak
Scientific studies documented
THE SAUDI DENTAL JOURNAL: A Review on Miswak and it’s Effect on Various Aspects of Oral Health
Miswaks on Debra’s List
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I ordered the Miswak Club on Amazon and used it during a trip to the Poconos last weekend. It is a learning curve but cleans the teeth much better than a toothbrush, toothpaste, and even tooth powder.
I haven’t used my Sustainabrush from Dragonfly Effect Naturals in a couple of days. The same thing with the toothpowder from Clean Living Collection.
You soak the miswak in a glass of water for 4 hours, just like the instructions say. You peel the outside of the bark, 1/2 inch or 1/4 inch of the way until the bristles are formed, and then you brush your teeth in an up and down motion.
After 3-5 days, you take the scissors, cut off the used bristles, and repeat the process.
You receive 2 miswaks and 2 carrying cases, useful for wherever you go and for keeping the miswaks clean. There is no water or toothpaste needed. Just the miswak is all you need.
I have been a student of Ayurveda for many years. Decades ago, I read that neem and eucalyptus twigs are traditionally used for toothbrushes, and I had a eucalyptus tree in my back yard, so I cut small twigs and used them only for months. One twig would last a while as I just cut off the used part; I used flexible twigs, and would store them in a glass of water. My teeth were NEVER as clean as they were using the twigs. I do not know how a totally dry twig would work but these sound interesting. Many other tree twigs can be used such as fruit tree twigs. Eucalyptus and neem also have oils that are germ killing.
I may try one of these, as I now live surround by only fir and oak trees.