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Peridontal Disease Herbal Remedies

Periodontal disease is a form of gum disease in which bacteria causes the gums to pull away from teeth. In advanced stages, it may cause deterioration of the bone structures that hold the teeth in place, causing tooth loss and other irreversible damage. When used in conjunction with good oral hygiene habits, herbs with immune-stimulating and antibacterial properties can help keep fight the bacteria that causes periodontal disease.

  1. Immune-Stimulating Herbs

    • Because proper immune function is needed to stave off bacterial growth, herbs that stimulate the immune system can be of benefit in controlling periodontal disease.

      Echinacea is among the most popular herbs for boosting immune function. According to experts at Nih.gov, echinacea increases levels of interferon, a protein released by immune cells to fight pathogens. Echinacea can be taken internally or used as a mouth rinse for treating periodontal disease. To make a rinse, add ½ tsp. liquid echinacea extract to ½ cup warm water, rinse and swallow. This can be done up to three times a day to help fight gum disease and boost immunity.

      Astragalus is an herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its immune-stimulating properties. It acts as an adaptogen---protecting against stress and bringing about a state of homeostasis in the body. According to Umm.edu, astragalus has antibacterial, antioxidant and immune-stimulating properties that make it useful in both preventing and treating a variety of ailments.

      Other immune-boosting herbs that may be beneficial in treating periodontal disease include Siberian ginseng, cordyceps and garlic.

    Antibacterial Herbs

    • Antibacterial herbs are valued for their ability to kill pathogenic bacteria throughout the body. Garlic is among the most potent antibacterial herbs available. Allicin--the active alkaloid in garlic---is a powerful broad-spectrum antibiotic, according to Garlic-Central.com. Unlike synthetic antibiotics, garlic does not stimulate yeast overgrowth or become less effective with continued use. It can be eaten whole or taken as a supplement or tincture. Aged (odorless) garlic can be made into a mouth rinse used for treating periodontal disease.

      Eucalyptus oil is of great benefit in maintaining oral health. According to JopOnline.org, patients who chewed gum containing eucalyptus extract experienced improvement in several facets of gum disease, including plaque accumulation and bleeding. While pure eucalyptus oil is toxic to ingest, using mouthwashes or toothpastes that contain it may help improve oral health.

      Other herbs that can be helpful in reducing periodontal bacteria include tea tree oil, neem oil and chamomile. To make a mouth rinse from tea tree or neem oil, add 12 drops neem extract or one drop tea tree oil to two ounces of water, gargle and spit. Chamomile tea can be drunk or gargled for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

    Additional Advice

    • While herbal remedies can be helpful in treating periodontal disease, they are most effective when used in conjunction with proper oral hygiene practices. Brush teeth at least twice daily, making sure to gently brush along the gumline as you go. Floss and use mouthwash regularly, and have your teeth cleaned by a dentist every six months to prevent plaque accumulation.

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