Edible berries can prevent mouth cancer

A scientific study reported in the journal Food Chemistry has suggested that some color-giving compounds present in edible berries can prevent mouth cancer and promote health benefits.

In a study conducted by Ohio State University researchers, extracts of several types of edible berries were tested in human salivary secretion. The tests were conducted to study the ability of the beneficial compounds that persists even after chemical reactions and degradation in saliva.

The study found two important compounds which are broadly called as anthocyanins are more susceptible for chemical degradation in mouth. However, four other compounds persisted even after chemical reactions in mouth.

The scientists exposed anthocyanins extracted from black raspberries, blueberries, red grape fruits, chokeberries and strawberries, and the anthocyanins were then exposed to salivary samples collected from 14 persons.

The researchers are further studying the nature of breakdown and to ascertain whether oral micro-organisms are responsible for breakdown or by the chemical reaction of compounds with the saliva. They are also trying to determine which is the beneficial for health – degraded compound or the naturally-occurring compounds in berries.

The present study reported the anthocyanins present in raspberry are found to be high and effective against salivary bacteria and cancer cells in the oral cavity.

The research can help the scientific community to develop an ingredient of chewing gums and confectioneries to prevent the oral diseases including gum infections and oral cancers.

Several published studies reported the anti-cancer properties of black raspberries, particularly against cancers of the stomach and mouth. The studies reported high levels of anthocyanins and believed to the cause of anti-cancer property.

All the edible berries are beneficial and unique for their health benefits such as promotion of oral health or intestinal health, said the study guide.