Contribution of Trees for Oral Hygiene in East Africa

Yoseph Negusse Araya, The Open University, UK

Abstract

The contribution of trees as tooth brush to maintain oral hygiene of local communities is discussed. Species commonly used in Eritrea and East Africa, as well as how the toothbrush (miswak) is utilized are presented. The potential benefits of tooth brush trees as a source of supplementary income is mentioned along with concerns for endangered species.

Recommended Citation

Araya, Yoseph Negusse (2007) "Contribution of Trees for Oral Hygiene in East Africa," Ethnobotanical Leaflets: Vol. 2007: Iss. 1, Article 8.
Available at: http://opensiuc.lib.siu.edu/ebl/vol2007/iss1/8