ND collaborates with dental hygiene magazine RDH to share how superfruit can play a role in a holistic approach to oral prevention.

In a recent RDH Magazine article, Dr. Daivati Bharadvaj, a National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) alumna and primary care physician, shared her expertise on how cranberries can support a holistic approach to oral care.

The article, which was published in the dental hygiene magazine on April 9, explores how hygienists are moving from a patient-centered model to one of person-centered care. Part of that shift includes incorporating ingredients such as Vaccinium macrocarpon, commonly known as cranberry extract, for patients seeking more natural oral care practices.
Bharadvaj, who graduated from NUNM’s Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program in 2009, consulted with the Pacific University authors during their investigation. She recommended the researchers review NUNM databases and the studies, and also shared her recipe for this cranberry-based oral rinse.
Cranberry oral rinse recipe
- 1 cup unsweetened cranberry juice
- 1 tbsp aloe vera juice base to blend with cranberries
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 or 2 cloves to taste
Preparation: Mix together and refrigerate overnight. The next day, remove the cloves. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use as an oral rinse twice daily for up to one week.
Swish for two minutes and expectorate. This recipe has no preservatives. If you don’t have all the ingredients, you can use cranberries alone.
According to the researchers, cranberries are widely available and offer various health benefits, making the superfruit a good alternative for oral health prevention for individuals with limited access to affordable dental care.