Salvadora Persica vs Korean Barberry

Middle Eastern and South Asian tree whose twigs are used as natural toothbrushes (miswak/siwak); endorsed by WHO for oral hygiene and used in Islamic tradition.

A Korean barberry species used in Hanbang medicine for liver-clearing and antimicrobial effects.

benzyl isothiocyanate, trimethylamine, salvadoricine, fluoride, silica

berberine, berbamine, palmatine, oxyacanthine

Oral hygiene, Dental caries prevention, Gum disease, Antimicrobial oral use

liver heat, infection, digestive issues

Antibacterial activity against dental pathogens, Anti-plaque effects, Gingival health support, Fluoride delivery

antimicrobial, antifungal, hypoglycemic

Chew twig daily for oral hygiene; dental preparations as directed

3-9g bark daily

Allergy to Salvadoraceae

pregnancy, cold deficiency

Minimal with normal use, Possible gingival irritation

digestive upset, nausea