From the Forest to the Lab: A Meta-analysis of Traditional Maya Medicinal Plants and Their Role Against Oral Pathogens.
Location
Poster #9
Start Date
1-5-2026 12:00 PM
Department
Biology
Abstract
For centuries, humans have battled pathogenic oral bacteria, prompting research into their biological mechanisms and potential treatments. Scientists have investigated not only the adverse effects of these microorganisms on human health but also their life cycles and biochemical compositions. A balanced oral microbiome preserves health, while an imbalance allows chronic infections that may lead to systemic conditions. Following secondary effects associated with certain treatments, such as antibiotic resistance or tissue damage, attention has increasingly shifted toward exploring natural therapeutic approaches. These alternative healing practices have been documented within traditional Maya medicine. Based on earlier research by Hageman et al (2014), I conducted a meta - analysis of plants used by Maya communities for oral health care and evaluated how these practices align with current biological research, highlighting the potential for natural, plant- based treatments to complement modern dentistry. However, a significant gap remains at the mechanistic and laboratory level. Additionally, findings suggest that variation in chemical composition influences antibacterial function and determines potential modes of administration. Reported applications include use as oral rinses, as well as topical preparations derived from crushed plant material. Overall, the limited biochemical evidence points to a critical research gap that merits further exploration.
Faculty Sponsor
Jon Hageman
From the Forest to the Lab: A Meta-analysis of Traditional Maya Medicinal Plants and Their Role Against Oral Pathogens.
Poster #9
For centuries, humans have battled pathogenic oral bacteria, prompting research into their biological mechanisms and potential treatments. Scientists have investigated not only the adverse effects of these microorganisms on human health but also their life cycles and biochemical compositions. A balanced oral microbiome preserves health, while an imbalance allows chronic infections that may lead to systemic conditions. Following secondary effects associated with certain treatments, such as antibiotic resistance or tissue damage, attention has increasingly shifted toward exploring natural therapeutic approaches. These alternative healing practices have been documented within traditional Maya medicine. Based on earlier research by Hageman et al (2014), I conducted a meta - analysis of plants used by Maya communities for oral health care and evaluated how these practices align with current biological research, highlighting the potential for natural, plant- based treatments to complement modern dentistry. However, a significant gap remains at the mechanistic and laboratory level. Additionally, findings suggest that variation in chemical composition influences antibacterial function and determines potential modes of administration. Reported applications include use as oral rinses, as well as topical preparations derived from crushed plant material. Overall, the limited biochemical evidence points to a critical research gap that merits further exploration.