How did the ancients clean their teeth?
In ancient times, due to the lack of modern technology and chemical cleaners, the ancients had to adopt some natural methods to clean their teeth. Although these methods may not be as effective as modern brushing and toothpaste, they still have a certain cleaning effect.
First of all, we can find some clues from ancient literature. In Dream of Red Mansions, Jia Baoyu is described using a substance called "green salt" to clean his teeth. Green salt is a natural mineral salt that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Jia Baoyu put the green salt on her fingers and rubbed her teeth to clean her mouth.
In addition to green salt, the ancients also used some plants to clean their teeth. For example, gargling with tea was a common method used by the ancients. Tea contains a substance called tea polyphenols, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects and can help reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth.
In addition, the ancients also used some Chinese herbs to clean their teeth. For example, Chinese herbs such as peppermint and cloves are ground into a powder and then mixed with water to gargle. These herbs not only have a cleansing effect, but also an aromatic and anti-inflammatory effect.
In addition to the above methods, the ancients also used some other ways to clean their teeth. For example, they use objects such as twigs and blades of grass to rub their teeth, or use their fingers dipped in salt or herbs to wipe their teeth.
Overall, although the methods of cleaning teeth of the ancients were not as effective as modern brushing and toothpaste, they still had a certain cleaning effect. Moreover, these methods are based on natural, harmless substances, which are in line with the Xi habits and cultural background of the time.