10 Best Herbal Baths For Swollen Gums

Herbal baths for swollen gums involve soaking the affected area in a warm solution infused with specific herbs known for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

Commonly used herbs include chamomile, calendula, and sage, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. To prepare an herbal bath, steep a handful of dried herbs in hot water for about 10 minutes, then let the solution cool slightly before using it to rinse or soak the gums. This natural remedy can be used several times a day to alleviate discomfort and support gum health.

While herbal baths can be a gentle and effective complement to conventional treatments, it is advisable to consult a dentist for persistent or severe gum swelling.

1. Salvia (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate symptoms of swollen gums due to its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.

When infused into bathwater, sage can help reduce gum inflammation and soothe irritation, providing natural relief without the use of harsh chemicals. The antibacterial qualities of sage may also help combat oral bacteria that contribute to gum swelling and infection. To prepare a sage bath, simply steep a handful of dried sage leaves in hot water for several minutes before adding it to a warm bath.

Regular use of sage-infused baths can be a calming and therapeutic addition to a holistic oral care routine.

2. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.

When prepared as a herbal bath, it can help reduce swelling and irritation in the gums by soothing inflamed tissues and promoting healing. To make a nettle bath, fresh or dried leaves are boiled in water, strained, and then used to soak the affected area or apply as a compress. The high concentration of silica and antioxidants in nettle may also support gum strength and prevent further inflammation.

However, it is important to ensure the solution is not too hot and to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially if there are underlying health conditions or allergies.

3. St. john's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate symptoms associated with swollen gums.

When infused into warm water, the compound's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can help reduce gum inflammation and combat oral bacteria. A gentle herbal bath can soothe irritation and promote healing by improving blood circulation in the affected area. To prepare the bath, steep a handful of dried hypericum perforatum in boiling water for about 15 minutes, then allow it to cool before using it as a rinse or soaking solution.

While it can be a complementary therapy, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you are taking other medications or have existing health conditions.

4. Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula officinalis, commonly known as pot marigold, is a herbal remedy often used in bath treatments to soothe inflamed and swollen gums.

Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help reduce gum irritation and prevent infection, making it ideal for those experiencing gum inflammation due to gingivitis or periodontal issues. To use calendula in a herbal bath, steep dried calendula flowers in hot water to create a soothing infusion, then add it to a warm bath for a relaxing and therapeutic experience. The gentle warmth of the bath enhances the absorption of calendula's beneficial compounds, promoting healing and comfort.

Regular use of calendula herbal baths can be a natural and calming way to support gum health and alleviate discomfort associated with swollen gums.

5. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a fragrant herb that has been traditionally used for its therapeutic properties, including its ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

When used in herbal baths, rosemary can help soothe swollen gums by improving circulation and reducing bacterial growth in the mouth. To prepare a rosemary bath, one can steep fresh or dried rosemary leaves in hot water and then use the infused solution to rinse the mouth or apply it as a warm compress to the affected area. The essential oils in rosemary, such as carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that support gum health.

While rosemary baths can be a natural complement to oral hygiene routines, they should not replace professional dental care for persistent or severe gum issues.

6. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, has been widely used in herbal remedies for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

When infused into a bath, lavender can help reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, making it beneficial for individuals experiencing swollen gums. The aromatic compounds in lavender, such as linalool and lavandin, have been shown to have antimicrobial and calming effects that may support gum health. To use lavender in a herbal bath, steep dried lavender flowers in boiling water and then add the infused liquid to warm bath water.

This gentle, aromatherapy-infused bath can provide both physical and emotional relief for those dealing with gum inflammation.

7. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, making it a potential remedy for swollen gums.

When used in herbal baths, yarrow can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated gum tissues by promoting circulation and reducing bacterial buildup. To prepare an herbal bath, steep dried yarrow flowers in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, then allow the solution to cool to a comfortable temperature before using it as a rinse or compress. Regular use of yarrow-infused water can help alleviate gum swelling and support overall oral health.

However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

8. German chamomile (Chamomilla recutita)

Chamomilla recutita, commonly known as German chamomile, has been traditionally used for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice for herbal baths aimed at relieving swollen gums.

When infused into warm water, chamomile baths can help soothe inflamed gum tissues and reduce irritation, thanks to its high concentration of antioxidants and flavonoids. The essential oils in chamomile, such as bisabolol and chamazulene, possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that may help combat bacterial infections contributing to gum swelling. To prepare a chamomile bath, steep a few tea bags or a handful of dried flowers in hot water for several minutes before adding the liquid to a warm bath.

Regular use of chamomile baths can complement other oral hygiene practices, offering a natural and relaxing way to support gum health and comfort.

9. Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)

Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, has been widely used for its soothing and healing properties, making it a valuable ingredient in herbal baths for swollen gums.

When used in a bath, the gel from aloe vera can help reduce inflammation and promote the healing of gum tissues by providing a cooling and moisturizing effect. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of aloe vera may help alleviate pain and prevent infection in inflamed gums. To prepare an aloe herbal bath, the gel can be mixed with warm water or added to a bath filled with warm water for a relaxing and therapeutic experience.

While aloe vera baths can offer relief, they should be used in conjunction with proper oral hygiene and professional dental care for optimal results.

10. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a versatile herb that has been traditionally used for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

When used in herbal baths, lemon balm can help soothe swollen gums by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which may indirectly alleviate gum discomfort. To prepare a lemon balm bath, steep fresh or dried leaves in hot water for several minutes, then add the infused water to a warm bath. Soaking in this bath for 15 to 20 minutes can provide a gentle, soothing effect on the gums and surrounding tissues.

While herbal baths should not replace professional dental care, they can serve as a complementary therapy to support oral health and reduce minor gum inflammation.