Salvadora persica L

Arabic Name(s): Arak, Miswak, el Rak, kabats, shaow, shau, siwak Swahili: msuake, mswaki, musuake English Name(s): mustard tree, salt bush, toothbrush tree History and use: Salvadora persica is a popular chewing stick throughout the Indian
subcontinent, as well as the wider Muslim world. Also commonly referred to as miswak, it is often mentioned that the Prophet Muhammad recommended its use. He is quoted in various Hadith extolling the twig's virtues. In Pakistan these ancient, majestic and sturdy trees are more closely associated with graveyards like the cypress tree in English culture. Ecology & distribution The tree is able to tolerate a very dry environment with mean annual rainfall of less than 200 mm. Highly salt tolerant, it can grow on coastal regions and inland saline soils.

Influential Factors: Extremely well-adapted to arid conditions, is salt tolerant and very
drought resistant. Branches are cut repeatedly to produce short stems that are harvested for toothbrushes USES AS TOOTHBRUSHES: Young stems of 3 to 5 mm are used as toothbrushes and sold in most major markets. A toothstick is also said to relieve toothache and gum disease, The leaves are used as a mouthwash and for tooth and gum problems. The bark is said to contain an antibiotic which suppress growth of bacteria and the formation of plaque in the mouth

FODDER: Leaves make good fodder as they have high water content (15 to 36%) and are rich in minerals. Leaves and young shoots are browsed by all stock The high salt content of the leaves is said to affect the taste of milk, but the leaves are said to increase lactation in cows.

NOTES: The leaves and bark contain the alkaloid: tri-methylamine. There is potential for making soaps, candles, and using it as a substitute for coconut oil.

Role of Salvadora persica essential Oil in Dental Care: Its essential oil has amazing power to cure caries ,decay and weakening of teeth. The stem of the tree has been used as tooth cleanser for many years and have offered effective results to people. The plant holds brawny antibacterial chattels that cause minimal decay in the teeth. A thick blend of leaves is used for gargles and other gum related diseases.

Distribution: Salvadora is native to the hottest, driest areas of the Middle East. Localy: Southern (lower) Jordan valley, Dead Sea area (Ghore Safi and Fifa), Araba valley

Botanic description: It grows as small tree up to 7 m high, but its branches commonly hang down to the ground, makin like a shrub than a tree. Shoots and leaves are eaten as salad Salvadora persica essential oil is advised and used for dental caries, plaque and bacterial growth on teeth. Every part of the plant is quite useful and can be utilized for curing distinct problems in body Fruits have a sweet edible, aromatic, slightly pungent and peppery taste. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried and stored. Seeds of S. persica contain 30-40% of a greenish-yellow, non-edible oil. Seeds dispersed by animals and man after they Thid tree is generally a slow-growing tree. Apiculture: S. persica is reported as a good source of nectar. Reclamation: Planted in sand dune reclamation and also useful for reclaiming saline soils.