Know which herbs and spices are good for your teeth

Written by Dr Amrita Jain

Medically reviewed by  Dr. Vidhi Bhanushali Kabade BDS, TCC

Last updated Feb 3, 2024

Written by Dr Amrita Jain

Medically reviewed by  Dr. Vidhi Bhanushali Kabade BDS, TCC

Last updated Feb 3, 2024

Holistic dentistry is a growing trend in the dental industry. Nowadays, dentists and patients are looking for home remedies and eco-friendly treatments for their dental conditions. Here are a few selective herbs and spices which you can use in your routine and certainly have a healthy mouth.

Peppermint tea

Peppermint tea - Herbs and Spices Peppermint is considered a great way to keep your oral health in check. Peppermint is a natural anti-inflammatory and its anti-bacterial properties curb the growth of the bacteria preventing further infections of the mouth.

Other elements present in the peppermint tea are essential for the maintenance and formation of bone density in the tooth and jaw. Vitamins and minerals together fortify enamel and ensure strengthening teeth and gums.

Mixing one teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves along with 1 cup of boiling water for 20 minutes. Allow the water to cool down and gargle with that water. This is an excellent way to keep your teeth and mouth free of the germs and bacteria.

Onions

Thank god for onions. Most of us are very fond of onions. Can you imagine food without onions? Sure they’re a tasty addition to food but are you aware of its antiseptic properties. Yes, onions are antimicrobial in nature and kill the bacteria in the mouth.

You can simply place onion on the painful tooth or chew it.

Saltwater to rinse your mouth

Salt is a natural anti-septic. It’s the best home remedy to sanitize your mouth. Saltwater rising is also advised in case of severe gum infections, pain, and swelling of the gums. Its very effective in killing the bacteria present in the mouth.

Warm water saline gargles help to keep your mouth absolutely clean. This remedy should be practiced daily after meals to prevent any future dental or gum infections.

Simply put salt in warm water and gargle for 10 mins daily after meals.

Garlic

Herbs and spicesMany of us have heard garlic is very good for a healthy heart. But garlic is also good for a healthy mouth. Garlic is a secret hack for most of our recipes. Crushing the garlic releases allicin. Allicin is an antibacterial agent that also helps to relieve tooth pain. In cases of sudden tooth pain, one can simply chew a clove of garlic to reduce the pain and infection.

Thyme leaves

Thyme leaves are small herbs used for cooking or seasoning. Along with being antiseptic, it is also anti-fungal in nature. Using thyme leaves or thyme oil can essentially prevent various infections in the mouth.

You can add the essential oil directly to your tooth and gums. You can conveniently also sip thyme tea or chew fresh thyme leaves. Thyme leaves are very small, so it is a good idea to chew them.

Cinnamon Bark

The high aldehyde content of this makes it antimicrobial and antiseptic. High in tannins, cinnamon bark is an astringent, which in turn provides great benefits. Astringents contracts, firm and strengthen oral tissue, reduce surface inflammation and irritation, and create a protective layer from infection. Cinnamon oil is a recognized remedy as a painkiller and used to relieve toothaches. Also, the leaves (bay leaves) boiled in water and its decoction reduces bad breath.


Lavender

Used widely for its healing property. This oil comes highly aromatic lavender flower. It is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic and stimulant properties, in natural dental and oral remedies. Lavender is effective against bad breath, heal damaged tissue and provides soothing relief from mouth pain. Its aroma is also a powerful sedative that calms your nervous system. It is, therefore, an amazing stress-buster.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus - Herbs and spicesIndigenous to Australia, eucalyptus has one of the most widely known aromas. It boosts antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic and stimulating properties. Eucalyptus also boosts circulation and accelerates healing. Hence, It is ideal for reducing oral infection and mouth ulcers.

Red Thyme

We use red thyme oil extensively in medicine. It is a powerful antiseptic and disinfectant. Additionally, it is antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties treat oral inflammation and infection.

Licorice root or stick

Licorice roots are very commonly used from ancient times as a natural toothbrush. Chewing the licorice stick prevents tooth decay. Also, it has anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties. It reduces bad breath and gum diseases.

Mint

Mint is used in lemonades, food, and even in teas. Chewing a couple of mint leaves reduces bad breath. Moreover, mint tea has antibacterial properties that keep your mouth healthy and fresh. 

Note: Every treatment and remedy has both benefits and side effects. So remember to use these herbs and spices remedy in moderation. Also, visit your dentist immediately if you experience any discomfort or reaction from any particular herbs and spices.

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Author Bio: Dr. Amrita Jain is a practicing dental surgeon since 4 years. She completed her B.D.S in 2016 and was has been a rank holder throughout her course. She suggests “Holistic dentistry is the best dentistry”. Her treatment line follows a conservative pattern which means saving a tooth is of utmost priority and preventing your teeth from getting decayed rather than curing it with a root canal treatment. She inculcates the same while consulting her patients. Apart from her interest in clinical practice, she has developed interest in research and writing over a period of time. She states “It is my clinical experience that motivates me to write and spread dental awareness”. Her articles are well researched with a combination of technical knowledge and clinical experience.

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1 Comment

  1. Fern Schumachor

    Hello, this article is just great!
    I found a miraculous solution for me and my family.

    Reply

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