Let’s talk teeth. Did you know the most toxic aisle in the grocery store is the toothpaste aisle?! Have you looked at the information out there about what standard toothpaste ingredients can do to the nervous system? No thanks.
Our dental health plays a massive role in our overall health, and herbal remedies can be a game-changer when it comes to keeping a healthy mouth and a healthy body.
If dental health is that important, why would you want to put the most toxic thing in the store, into your body? Whether you’re dealing with gum disease, tooth pain, or just want a natural way to support healthy teeth and gums, there are plenty of amazing herbs with powerful herbal properties to help you out.
Here are some of the best ways to include herbs in your oral care routine.
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)
If you’ve ever had a toothache, you’ve probably heard about clove oil. The active ingredients in clove, particularly eugenol, are known for their numbing effect and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a lifesaver for tooth pain. Clove also has antimicrobial properties to fight bad bacteria and prevent tooth decay.
How to Use It:
- Dab a drop of clove oil on your fingertip or a cotton swab and apply it to the affected area for pain relief.
- For a more preventative measure, add a few drops of clove oil to your mouth rinse or toothpaste for fresher breath and to combat gum inflammation.
Spilanthes (Spilanthes acmella)
Spilanthes, also known as the “toothache plant,” is a powerhouse for oral hygiene. It has antiseptic properties to help prevent oral infections and gum disease, along with a slight numbing and tingling sensation that can stimulate a lot of saliva production. This is especially helpful if you struggle with dry mouth, which can lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay.
How to Use It:
- Chew a small flower or leaf for an instant tingling sensation and a boost in oral tissue health. Be ready for that excess saliva. It can be intense.
- Creating your own herbal products is quite simple with spilanthes. The plant grows well in most zones in the United States, and it can be tinctured to preserve its properties for year round use.
Neem (Azadirachta indica)
Neem has been a staple in natural medicine for centuries. Its strong antibacterial properties help fight oral bacteria that cause gum disease, tooth decay, and oral infections. Neem also may help strengthen tooth enamel and help reduce plaque buildup.
How to Use It:
- Use neem oil or neem sticks as a natural toothbrush. It’s a great way to clean teeth and support good oral health.
- Add a few drops of neem oil to a mouth rinse for a quick and effective oral care routine.
Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum verum)
Cinnamon isn’t just for cooking and baking—it’s an amazing herb for oral care. Known for its antimicrobial properties and anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon helps combat harmful bacteria, reduce tooth pain, and soothe mouth sores.
How to Use It:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon powder to coconut or sesame oil for a soothing oil pulling session.
- Combine cinnamon with other herbs like clove for a DIY mouth rinse.
Aloe Vera
If you’re dealing with sensitive teeth or irritated gums, aloe vera is your go-to. Its antiseptic properties and wound-healing properties can help reduce gum inflammation and support the healing process for oral tissue.
How to Use It:
- Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to sore or swollen gums.
If the texture is a little too much to take, you can create a mouthwash with aloe vera juice. Keeping it in the refrigerator helps decrease swelling and soothe sore gums.
Creating A Natural Oral Care Routine
Herbs like clove, spilanthes, and neem, are some of the best things you can include in your dental care routine. Here’s a simple daily plan:
- Brush Naturally: Use natural toothpastes or neem sticks for a natural way to clean teeth.
- Oil Pulling: Swish coconut or sesame oil with a few drops of essential oils like clove for 10 minutes.
- Mouth Rinse: Brew a tea with herbs like green tea or cinnamon bark and use it to rinse away food particles and bad bacteria.
- Sore Spots: Apply spilanthes or clove oil for pain relief and to soothe gum inflammation. Our family has had the best success alternating the use of both of these herbs.
DIY Herbal Toothpaste Recipe
Here’s a simple herbal toothpaste recipe! Made with natural ingredients, this toothpaste supports dental health, fights bad bacteria, and helps maintain healthy gums and teeth—without the harsh chemicals.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp bentonite clay (helps polish teeth and detoxifies)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (for its antimicrobial properties and creamy texture)
- 1 tbsp baking soda (optional, a natural tooth cleaner and gentle whitener)
- 1 tsp neem powder or finely ground neem leaves (fights gum disease and reduces plaque buildup)
- 1/4 tsp ground clove (or a few drops of clove essential oil, for its antiseptic properties and pain relief)
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder (for its antibacterial properties and fresh flavor)
If you are fighting gum disease, cavities, or any other periodontal issues, adding a mouth rinse with spilanthes would be beneficial as well.
Herbal remedies are a great way to care for your teeth naturally while avoiding the side effects of chemical-based oral care products. They support good oral health, help fight oral diseases, and protect against tooth loss, all while being gentle on gum tissue and the nervous system.
So, the next time you’re thinking about your oral hygiene, why not turn to the power of herbs? They’ve been used in traditional medicine for centuries for a reason—they work.
Here’s to healthy teeth, healthy gums, and a healthier you! Let me know if you give any of these tips a try.
