Cod Liver Oil & Gum Inflammation

Cod liver oil has been used as a nutritional supplement for many decades because it was recognized as a good source of vitamin D and helpful in preventing rickets, or bone deformation, in children. Cod liver oil was eventually discovered to contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have proven to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. The properties of omega-3 fatty acids combined with the antioxidant and healing properties of vitamins A and D make cod liver oil a good natural remedy to combat tissue inflammation. Consult with your dentist if you experience chronic inflammation of the gums.

Cod Liver Oil

Cod liver oil is derived from the livers of cod fish. According to “Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism,” cod liver oil contains high levels of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, and very high levels of vitamins A and D. Cod liver oil was once commonly fed to children by spoon in efforts to prevent rickets and other symptoms associated with vitamin D deficiency. Due to its unpleasant taste, cod liver oil is now available in capsules. Cod liver oil and other fish oils are widely taken to ease the symptoms of arthritis, bone pain and muscle aches and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Cod liver oil usually contains much higher levels of vitamins A and D compared to fish oil, but similar levels of omega-3 fatty acids.

Inflammation

The ability of cod liver oil to reduce inflammation is mainly due to its omega-3 fatty acids, which have been well studied, but also due to the antioxidant effects of vitamin A. When combined, the two nutrients can act as a powerful anti-inflammatory. According to a German study published in a 2002 edition of “Advances in Therapy,” cod liver oil was found to be effective at reducing the inflammation, stiffness and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, which is the most common type of inflammatory arthritis.

Wound Healing

Applying cod liver oil on injuries is an age-old practice, but research provides proof that it can be effective for wound healing. According to a Danish study published in a 2000 edition of the “Scandinavian Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Hand Surgery,” topical application of cod liver oil quickly reduces inflammation and accelerates wound healing in mice.

Gum Inflammation

Gum inflammation, sometimes called gingivitis, is caused by numerous factors including bacterial infection, trauma, scalding and allergic reactions. There is not much evidence that cod liver oil displays strong anti-bacterial properties, but the combined effects of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A and D make cod liver oil a good and safe option to apply topically on inflamed gums.

Caution

As noted, cod liver oil is high in vitamin A, which is stored in your liver, and could cause toxicity in large doses over many days, so exercise caution. Consult with your doctor about the appropriateness of supplementing with cod liver oil.