Gum Care · Quercus Robur Bark Extract · CAS 84012-27-1

Oak Bark

One of the oldest phytotherapeutic ingredients in Russian medicine. Oak bark tannins reduce bleeding, firm gum tissue, and provide antibacterial activity.

QDRO position

We use it

Traditional Russian ingredient — astringent and anti-inflammatory action for healthy gums.

Effective concentration

1–3%

Typical on market: 0.5–1%

What it is

Oak bark refers to the dried and ground bark of the English oak (Quercus robur). One of the oldest medicinal ingredients in European and Russian medicine: references to its use in oral diseases appear in manuscripts from the 12th–13th centuries.

In Russia, oak bark extract is officially listed in the state register of medicines. Oak bark decoction was part of gingivitis treatment protocols in Soviet dentistry from the 1970s and remains in clinical use today.

How it works

Astringent effect — the primary mechanism. The active compounds in oak bark are tannins (12–16% in dry extract), primarily ellagitannins and gallic acid derivatives. When they contact the mucous membrane, tannins bind to tissue proteins and form a protective coagulation layer:

capillary permeability decreases → bleeding is reduced
the surface layer of mucosa is firmed → barrier function improves
sensitivity of pain receptors in the inflamed area is reduced

Antibacterial activity. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of oak bark extract against S. mutans is 0.25 mg/ml. Tannins are also effective against P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum — anaerobes responsible for periodontitis progression.

Antioxidant effect. Oak bark polyphenols neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress in inflamed gum tissue.

Efficacy

Greatest clinical effect in chronic gingivitis: reduced bleeding during tooth brushing, decreased gingival margin swelling. Requires several weeks of regular use to achieve a cumulative effect.

Safety

Oak bark has centuries of documented medical use. No toxicity data for topical application. With prolonged use at high concentrations (above 5%), slight discoloration of dental plaque is possible — which is why working concentrations in toothpaste are limited to 1–3%.

Role in QDRO context

Oak bark is one of the "honest" ingredients with solid evidence that somehow ended up in the shadow of imported extracts. We include it in v.daily as an ingredient with local roots and a well-understood mechanism of action.