10 Best Herbal Teas For Inflamed Gums

Herbal teas can be a natural and soothing remedy for inflamed gums, offering anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help reduce swelling and combat bacterial infections.

Chamomile, green tea, and licorice root are commonly used herbs known for their ability to calm gum irritation and promote healing. These teas can be brewed and used as a mouth rinse or applied directly to the gums for localized relief. Regular use of herbal teas may support overall oral health by reducing plaque buildup and preventing further gum inflammation.

However, it is important to consult with a dentist or healthcare provider to ensure these remedies are safe and effective for individual conditions.

1. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it a promising ingredient in herbal teas for inflamed gums.

The essential oils in sage, particularly thujone and camphor, help reduce swelling and soothe irritation in the gums, providing natural relief from gum inflammation. When brewed as a tea, sage can be consumed orally or used as a mouth rinse to combat bacterial buildup that often contributes to gum disease. Its astringent qualities also help tighten the gum tissue, promoting a healthier oral environment.

While sage tea is generally safe, it should be used with caution, especially in pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions, and it is best to consult a healthcare provider before regular use.

2. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a versatile herb that has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.

When prepared as a herbal tea, it can help soothe inflamed gums by reducing swelling and promoting healing due to its high content of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica. The tea works by calming the inflammatory response in the gums, making it a natural remedy for conditions like gingivitis. To use it, steep fresh or dried nettle leaves in hot water for several minutes, and drink it as a warm infusion.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using nettle tea, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are on medication.

3. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's wort, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

When brewed into a tea, it may help reduce inflammation in the gums by soothing irritation and promoting healing. The active compounds in hypericum perforatum, such as hypericin and flavonoids, are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects on oral health. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this herb, as it can interact with certain medications.

Despite its potential benefits, more clinical research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety for treating inflamed gums.

4. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a popular herbal remedy often used in teas to support immune health and reduce inflammation.

When brewed into a tea, echinacea may help soothe inflamed gums by its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This herb is believed to promote healing by reducing bacterial growth and calming irritation in the mouth. While it is generally considered safe for short-term use, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using it, especially for those with allergies or chronic conditions.

Incorporating echinacea tea into a daily routine may offer natural relief for gum inflammation when used as part of a holistic oral care regimen.

5. Mentha piperita

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a popular herbal ingredient used in teas to support gum health.

Peppermint tea contains natural compounds like menthol and rosmarinic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. These properties can help reduce gum inflammation and soothe irritation caused by bacterial buildup. Regular consumption of peppermint tea may promote better oral hygiene and alleviate symptoms of gingivitis.

However, it is best used as a complementary therapy alongside proper dental care and professional treatment when necessary.

6. Camellia sinensis

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green and black teas are derived, contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and catechins that possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These compounds can help reduce inflammation in the gums by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Herbal teas made from Camellia sinensis are often consumed for their soothing effects on oral health, providing a natural alternative to conventional treatments. Regular consumption of these teas may support gum health by reducing plaque buildup and preventing gingivitis.

However, it is important to consult with a dental professional before using Camellia sinensis teas as a primary treatment for inflamed gums.

7. Chamomilla recutita

Chamomilla recutita, commonly known as German chamomile, is a popular herbal tea used for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

When brewed as a tea, it can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated gums, making it a natural remedy for gum issues. The active compounds in chamomile, such as bisabolol and chamazulene, contribute to its ability to decrease swelling and promote healing. Many people find that drinking chamomile tea or using it as a mouth rinse provides relief from gum inflammation and discomfort.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using chamomile, especially if you have known allergies or are taking medications.

8. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a fragrant herb that has been traditionally used for its therapeutic properties, including its potential benefits for oral health.

Rosemary herbal tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce gum inflammation and promote healing. When consumed regularly, this tea can support overall oral hygiene by soothing irritated gums and reducing bacterial buildup. Its natural antimicrobial properties may also help prevent gum infections and plaque formation.

While it should not replace professional dental care, rosemary tea can be a valuable complementary remedy for managing inflamed gums.

9. Achillea millefolium

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.

When brewed into a herbal tea, it can help reduce inflammation in the gums, making it a potential natural remedy for conditions like gingivitis. The tea contains compounds such as flavonoids and essential oils that may help soothe irritated gum tissue and promote healing. To use it for inflamed gums, it is typically recommended to steep the dried herb in hot water for several minutes and then strain before use.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using yarrow tea, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.

10. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential remedy for inflamed gums.

The herb contains compounds such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, which exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce gum irritation and swelling. When brewed into a tea, licorice root can soothe the oral mucosa and promote healing in cases of gingivitis or other gum infections. However, excessive consumption of licorice root tea may lead to side effects such as increased blood pressure due to its mineralocorticoid-like activity.

As a complementary therapy, licorice root tea should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.