Bacteria Causing Tooth Decay Can Be Killed with Coconut Oil

Speaking at the Society for General Microbiology's Autumn Conference, held at the University of Warwick, experts from the Athlone Institute of Technology in Ireland have revealed that digested coconut oil contains a naturally occurring antibiotic that could have significant applications in dental healthcare.

According to the research group, the chemicals in this type of oil can attack and destroy the bacteria responsible for causing tooth decay. As such, they could be incorporated into future generations of healthcare products, helping to boost the efficiency of existing antibacterial agents.

The team found that the coconut oil was effective at inhibiting the growth and multiplication of Streptococcus bacteria, including the S. mutans variety. This is responsible for increasing acidity in the mouth and promoting tooth decay, e! Science News reports.