Wasabi for the Prevention of Dental Caries

Wasabi, which is a pungent green horseradish that is usually served with Japanese sushi, has been found to prevent tooth decay.

The chemical compound that is found in wasabi known as isothiocyanates inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans which is the bacteria that causes dental caries.

The effect is the result of wasabi’s ability to interfere with adherence of the sucrose-dependent cells.

These isothiocyanate compounds, which are what causes the pungent smell and taste of wasabi, are much the same as those that produce the flavors of cabbage and broccoli.

Wasabi’s isothiocyanates have long been known to have numerous health benefits including anti asthmatic properties, the prevention of harmful blood clots, and have been implicated in the prevention of cancer.

However, wasabi has also been determined to have antimicrobial properties, which might account for its popularity as a condiment for raw fish.

Wasabi is a perennial plant from the Cruciferous family that includes cabbage and broccoli. Wasabi has thick stems that are ground into a light green paste that is served as a condiment, usually with sashimi and sushi. Wasabi is very easy to find in special shops that serve Japanese food and in sushi bars.

Recently, Japanese scientists have determined that wasabi will prevent the growth of the dental caries. The single bacterium known as sreptococcus mutans will not harm your health. They only acidate your saliva and protect your teeth.

These isothiocyanates also inhibit the growth of the bacteria that cause cavities. If you eat wasabi a few times a week it will protect you from cavities. For a delicious salad dressing, combine ½ teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of wasabi paste, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar.

Wasabi is very effective at fighting streptococcus mutans which is the bacteria that produce acids that degrade tooth enamel. Wasabi acts very fast and very effective at inhibiting the bacteria. The isothiocyanates also have a sinus -clearing effect.

This compound is used to prevent and treat cancer, asthma, and blood clotting. Although the actual mechanism of the compound isn’t understood yet, some scientists think that this compound either suffocates the bacteria or breaks down the enzyme of the bacteria’s protein. In order to release the compound the wasabi horseradish needs to be grated into a pulp.

It is also believed that the validity of any study that may be done is partially dependent on the environment that used during the study. The reason for this sentiment is that what’s effective in a test tube might not have the same affect in the mouth.

The conditions of the mouth are moist and dark and therefore bacteria can thrive there. However, a test tube can’t come close to replicating the conditions that exist in the mouth. That’s not to say that wasabi wouldn’t make great toothpaste.

As far as acceptance, something may have to be added in order to cover up the strong taste. But, it might be a challenge to find a market for such a product in the United States. Perhaps someday people will want wasabi flavored toothpaste.