The benefits of beer!

Scientists from Japan have discovered that a waste product of beer production may be used in the fight against tooth decay. 

The flowers or cones from female hop plants have been used to flavour beer since the early 18th century. Once the hop flowers have been used, the hop leaves are discarded, and it is this by-product of the beer production process that may help prevent cavities and gum disease. Hop leaves contain special polyphenolic antioxidants which were found to prevent bacteria from sticking onto teeth and from releasing toxins that cause tooth and gum decay. These finding may pave the way for more natural approaches in improving oral health.