I've been getting into using more natural products in my skin- and haircare, so thought I'd have a go with my teeth, too. Didn't really want to brush with a stick to prove my eco credentials, but Sarakan seems to be the next best thing. According to the company: "Sarakan dental care contains natural extract of Salvadora persica, also known as the toothbrush tree - renowned for its powerful antiseptic and beneficial properties. Salvadora has in its natural state as twigs, been used for centuries as an effective way to help keep teeth and gums clean and healthy." Basically, Sarakan have taken a twig and converted it into a more convenient regular-style white paste. It looks, feels and tastes like toothpaste. What's reassuring is that the shrub its derived from even has the seal of approval of the World Health Organization for oral hygiene use. Other facts that appeal to me are that it contains no fluoride (I like to choose whether or not to ingest fluoride), sodium lauryl sulphate, sweeteners, artificial colours or animal-derived ingredients. I'm not vegan, but it's suitable for those who are. I'm currently on my third tube (they are sold in 50ml tubes) and finding that it's pretty good at stain removal - better, in fact, than some mainstream products. Priced at about £2 for 50ml, Sarakan is not the cheapest toothpaste, but if you are looking for a natural alternative it's well worth a try.
Ingredients: Glycerin (non-animal), aqua, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, talc, Salvadora persica natural extract, Mentha piperita, Mentha arvensis, Eugenia caryophyllus, geranium, hydroxyethylcellulose, sodium phosphate, Methylparaben, CI 77491.