Herbs are a Natural Option for Gum Care

If you are the kind of person that shies away from man-made medications in favor of natural remedies, you’ll be happy to know that it’s possible to care for your gums the natural way through the use of a variety of herbs and other natural substances. Many of these herbal concoctions have been around for centuries and there are countless individuals with healthy gums who will attest to the fact that these remedies truly work.

And because gum disease affects large numbers of individuals in the U.K. and beyond – some estimates say more than half the population of all those over 30 years of age – it’s important to engage in regular care, even beyond brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. These options are easy and inexpensive, so why not give them a try?

• Sage leaves – This one is super simple. Purchase fresh organic sage and boil about 50 leaves in distilled water. You can then gargle several times a day with the “liquor” that is the result of the boiling, often called a “decoction”. Sage tea works in a similar manner and can be consumed several times each day as well. Sage is a well-known anti-inflammatory and also boasts anti-microbial properties that can kill germs.
• Garlic – If your gums are feeling especially irritated or look red and swollen, you can apply garlic cloves directly to them. If you prefer a pasty substance, mix fresh minced garlic with turmeric paste to create a product you can use just like your normal toothpaste. However, in this case, you’ll need to leave it in your mouth for a few minutes before rinsing to give the anti-inflammatory properties of both herbs a chance to work.
• Olive Oil – It has long been noted that certain oils literally pull toxins out of your mouth and, specifically, from your gums. Those who promote this method dub it – appropriately – oil pulling. Studies have shown that applying oil removes plaque build-up as well, and other trials have demonstrated oil’s ability to lessen the amount of streptococcus mutans in both plaque and saliva, making for a much healthier mouth overall. It may even reduce bad breath! You can use 100% organic olive oil as well as other oils including sesame and coconut. The latter has a more pleasant taste.
• Mustard Oil – Long before toothpaste made its way to the market, people with dental problems were employing the use of mustard oil to destroy bacteria in the mouth. As with the other herbs we’ve mentioned, this one also has anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties and is known to be a powerful pain reducer.
• Neem – Found in many natural remedies used in India, Neem can be part of a mouthwash preparation or may be made into a gel and used like toothpaste. You can even purchase a pre-packaged neem-containing toothpaste, like TheraNeem™ Organix, flavored with cinnamon or other flavors. Neem has both antifungal and antimicrobial properties.
• Aloe Vera Gel – Purchase a few aloe vera plants and squeeze the gel directly from its leaves and rub it into your gums. This is an especially good remedy for inflamed gums that are causing a lot of pain.

Remember, there’s no substitute for seeing your dental professional regularly, but it never hurts to go that extra step towards keeping your mouth healthy 365 days a year!

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