By Leen Randell

Updated: Nov 13, 2024

10 Best Herbal Teas For Dental Plaque

Herbal teas for dental plaque are natural infusions that help prevent and reduce the formation of dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease if left unchecked.

The best herbal teas for this purpose include Salvia officinalis, Eucalyptus globulus, Melaleuca alternifolia, Cinnamomum verum, Echinacea purpurea, Thymus vulgaris, Syzygium aromaticum, Sanguisorba officinalis, Zingiber officinale, and Lavandula angustifolia.

If left untreated, dental plaque can lead to painful gum disease, bad breath, and even tooth loss, severely impacting one's quality of life and self-confidence.

1. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis teas helps with dental plaque because its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties help combat the bacteria that contribute to plaque buildup.

The tea's flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary contributor to tooth decay. Additionally, the tea's ability to reduce inflammation may help alleviate gum inflammation and promote a healthy oral environment, making it a potential natural remedy for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental plaque.

Regular consumption may promote a cleaner, healthier mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with dental plaque.

• Salvianolic acid: It helps reduce the growth of dental plaque by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes involved in the formation of biofilms.
• Rosmarinic acid: It has antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent the adhesion and growth of bacteria responsible for dental plaque.
• Caryophyllene oxide: It exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities, which can help to reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of dental plaque.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Salvia officinalis used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: They are commonly used due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat dental plaque and gum disease.
• Buds: The buds are used for their antimicrobial properties, which help reduce bacteria responsible for dental plaque and promote oral health.
• Flowers: The flowers of Salvia officinalis are also used in teas for their antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which help prevent dental plaque buildup and promote oral hygiene.

2. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus teas helps with dental plaque because of its antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth.

The tea's high content of eucalyptol, a natural compound, helps to break down and dissolve plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Regular consumption of Eucalyptus globulus tea may also help to reduce inflammation and freshen breath, promoting a healthier oral environment and supporting overall oral hygiene.

This natural remedy can be a valuable addition to a dental care routine.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus teas that help with dental plaque.

• Cineole: A key component in Eucalyptus globulus, cineole has antimicrobial properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque formation.
• Flavonoids: The flavonoids present in Eucalyptus globulus exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation in the gums and promoting a healthy oral environment that discourages plaque buildup.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Eucalyptus globulus demonstrate antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and viruses that cause oral infections and plaque accumulation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Eucalyptus globulus used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: High in antioxidants and essential oils, which help reduce plaque and prevent gum inflammation.
• Barks: Rich in tannins, which have antibacterial properties that help combat oral bacteria and prevent plaque buildup.
• Stems: Contain eucalyptol, a compound that helps reduce plaque, prevents gum inflammation, and freshens breath.

3. Melaleuca alternifolia

Melaleuca alternifolia teas helps with dental plaque because of its potent antimicrobial properties, derived from the active compound melaleuca oil.

The tea has been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary contributor to dental plaque and tooth decay. Additionally, the tea's antibacterial properties help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of biofilms, making it an effective natural remedy for maintaining oral health and preventing dental plaque buildup.

Regular consumption may lead to improved oral hygiene.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia teas that help with dental plaque.

• Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds help inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary contributor to dental plaque, by reducing their adhesion to tooth surfaces and suppressing their metabolic activity.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has antimicrobial properties that help combat the bacteria responsible for dental plaque, thereby reducing inflammation and preventing further plaque formation.
• Linalool: This monoterpenoid exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the severity of dental plaque and gum inflammation, while also preventing the spread of oral infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Melaleuca alternifolia used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: The essential oil extracted from Melaleuca alternifolia leaves is used in teas due to its antimicrobial properties that help combat dental plaque and promote oral health.
• Stems: The leaves and stems of Melaleuca alternifolia are used in teas because they contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of dental plaque.
• Barks: The barks of Melaleuca alternifolia are used in teas for their antibacterial properties, which help to prevent the buildup of dental plaque and promote a healthy oral environment.

4. Cinnamomum verum

Cinnamomum verum teas helps with dental plaque because it contains oils rich in cinnamaldehyde, which has antimicrobial properties.

These properties inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. The oils in Cinnamomum verum also have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation and prevent the progression of gum disease.

Regular consumption of Cinnamomum verum teas may help maintain good oral health and reduce the risk of dental problems.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum teas that help with dental plaque.

• Cinnamaldehyde: It helps with dental plaque by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, reducing the growth of bacteria that contribute to plaque formation.
• Cinnamic acid: It helps with dental plaque by preventing the adhesion of bacteria to tooth surfaces, thereby reducing plaque accumulation.
• Quercetin: It helps with dental plaque by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress associated with plaque formation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Cinnamomum verum used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: Used to make teas for dental plaque because of their antimicrobial properties that help reduce plaque and prevent oral infections.
• Barks: Used to make teas for dental plaque due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help combat plaque and gum disease.
• Rhyzomes: Used to make teas for dental plaque because of their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent plaque buildup and reduce oral inflammation.

5. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea teas helps with dental plaque because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea's active compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to plaque formation. By reducing inflammation and preventing bacterial overgrowth, Echinacea purpurea tea promotes a healthy oral environment, thereby reducing the risk of dental plaque and related issues like gum disease and tooth decay.

Regular consumption may also boost the immune system.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with dental plaque.

• Icariin: This flavonoid glycoside helps prevent dental plaque by inhibiting the growth and adhesion of bacteria to the tooth surface.
• Cichoric acid: This phenolic compound exhibits antibacterial properties, which help reduce the formation of dental plaque by suppressing the growth of bacteria in the oral cavity.
• Caffeic acid: This phenolic acid has antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which help prevent the accumulation of bacteria and toxins that contribute to dental plaque formation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Echinacea purpurea used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and combat bacteria that cause dental plaque.
• Flowers: Contain compounds that exhibit antimicrobial properties, which help inhibit the growth of bacteria associated with dental plaque and gum disease.
• Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in the gums and teeth.

6. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris teas helps with dental plaque because of its antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat bacteria that contribute to plaque buildup.

The tea's active compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary cause of tooth decay. By reducing bacterial populations, Thymus vulgaris teas promote a healthier oral environment, thereby helping to prevent the formation of dental plaque and reduce the risk of related oral health issues.

Regular consumption may contribute to overall oral well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris teas that help with dental plaque.

• Thymol: It has antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for dental plaque.
• Carvacrol: This phenolic compound has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent the formation of dental plaque.
• Rosmarinic acid: It has antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent the adhesion of bacteria to tooth surfaces, thereby preventing the formation of dental plaque.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Thymus vulgaris used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, which help combat bacterial growth in the mouth that contributes to dental plaque.
• Flowers: Employed for their ability to reduce inflammation and fight off oral infections that lead to plaque buildup.
• Buds: Utilized for their antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which help protect the gums and prevent the formation of dental plaque.

7. Syzygium aromaticum

Syzygium aromaticum teas helps with dental plaque because it has potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea's main compound, caryophyllene, has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque, such as Streptococcus mutans. Additionally, Syzygium aromaticum's antiseptic properties help to reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of new plaque, promoting a healthy oral environment.

Regular consumption of this tea may also help to prevent gum disease and promote overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Syzygium aromaticum teas that help with dental plaque.

• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has antimicrobial properties, which help in inhibiting the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque.
• Eugenol: As an antimicrobial agent, eugenol prevents the formation of dental plaque by reducing the population of pathogenic oral bacteria.
• Gallic acid: This phenolic compound exhibits antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which aid in reducing the formation of dental plaque and preventing its progression to gum disease.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Syzygium aromaticum used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Flowers: The flowers are commonly used in teas due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce dental plaque and gum inflammation.
• Buds: The buds contain essential oils that have antibacterial and antifungal properties, making them effective in preventing the formation of dental plaque and promoting oral health.
• Leaves: The leaves of Syzygium aromaticum have been traditionally used to make teas that help reduce dental plaque and gum inflammation due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

8. Sanguisorba officinalis

Sanguisorba officinalis teas helps with dental plaque because it contains potent antioxidants and tannins that inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for plaque formation.

The tannins in Sanguisorba officinalis also have astringent properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent the adhesion of bacteria to tooth surfaces.

Regular consumption of Sanguisorba officinalis teas may help to maintain a healthy oral environment, reducing the risk of dental caries, gingivitis, and other oral health issues associated with dental plaque.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sanguisorba officinalis teas that help with dental plaque.

• Quercetin: This flavonoid helps reduce the formation of dental plaque by inhibiting the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria.
• Kaempferol: This flavonoid possesses antibacterial properties, which can help prevent the accumulation of bacteria on tooth surfaces, thereby reducing dental plaque formation.
• Salicylic acid: This phenolic acid has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help control the growth of oral pathogens and alleviate symptoms associated with dental plaque.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Sanguisorba officinalis used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: They are used to make teas due to their astringent properties that help reduce bacteria and prevent dental plaque.
• Roots: They are used to make teas due to their antimicrobial properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria associated with dental plaque.
• Stems: They are used to make teas due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent dental plaque.

9. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale teas helps with dental plaque because it contains compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have antimicrobial properties.

These properties help to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque, reducing inflammation and preventing the formation of tartar. Additionally, ginger's anti-inflammatory effects can help to soothe sore gums and reduce swelling associated with plaque buildup.

Regular consumption of Zingiber officinale tea may promote a healthier oral environment and support overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with dental plaque.

• Gingerols: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the growth and accumulation of bacteria in dental plaque.
• Shogaols: With their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, shogaols help to prevent the formation of plaque and reduce inflammation in the gums.
• Zingerone: This compound has antioxidant properties, which help to protect the teeth and gums from oxidative stress caused by plaque buildup, promoting overall oral health.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Rhyzomes: They are commonly used to make teas due to their high concentration of active compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help combat dental plaque.
• Roots: Roots of Zingiber officinale are also used to make teas for dental health as they contain antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds that can help reduce plaque formation and prevent gum disease.
• Stems: Stems of Zingiber officinale may also be used to make teas, although less commonly, as they contain some bioactive compounds that can help in maintaining oral health and preventing dental plaque.

10. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia teas helps with dental plaque because of its antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for plaque formation.

The tea's bioactive compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to reduce the adhesion of bacteria to tooth surfaces, preventing the accumulation of plaque.

Regular consumption of Lavandula angustifolia tea may also help reduce inflammation and promote a healthier oral environment, ultimately contributing to the prevention of dental plaque and associated oral health issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with dental plaque.

• Linalool: This terpene helps prevent the formation of dental plaque by exhibiting antimicrobial properties against bacteria that contribute to plaque accumulation.
• Linalyl acetate: This ester has been found to inhibit the growth of oral bacteria, thereby reducing the development of dental plaque.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic acid exhibits antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the formation of dental plaque by preventing bacterial overgrowth and oxidative stress in the oral cavity.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Lavandula angustifolia used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Flowers: Used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce plaque and prevent gum inflammation.
• Leaves: Utilized for their antimicrobial properties to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause dental plaque.
• Stems: Employed for their antibacterial properties to help prevent the formation of plaque and promote healthy gums.