Last updated: Apr 20, 2024
10 best herbal teas for inflamed gums
Herbal teas, such as chamomile and calendula, offer a natural approach to soothing inflamed gums.
Chamomile, renowned for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helps reduce swelling and discomfort. Calendula, rich in antioxidants and with potent anti-inflammatory effects, promotes tissue healing and alleviates inflammation.
Regularly sipping these herbal teas creates a soothing, therapeutic experience for individuals seeking gum inflammation relief.
1. Chamomile
Chamomile tea aids inflamed gums due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties derived from the plant's active compounds, particularly the flavonoids and terpenoids.
These compounds inhibit the release of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing swelling and redness in the affected gum area. Moreover, chamomile exhibits antimicrobial effects, which help combat plaque-causing bacteria, further promoting oral health and soothing irritated gums. The soothing warmth of the tea also increases blood flow to the gums, enhancing the delivery of the healing compounds to the inflamed site.
Furthermore, chamomile's long-standing traditional use as a natural remedy for oral health concerns validates its efficacy in alleviating inflamed gums.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with inflamed gums.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, chamomile flowers possess anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflamed gums.
- Leaves: Containing volatile oils and antioxidants, chamomile leaves help reduce gum inflammation and offer relief.
- Rhyzomes: Packed with anti-inflammatory compounds, chamomile rhyzomes alleviate gum inflammation and promote oral health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with inflamed gums.
- Alpha-Bisabolol: This terpene alcohol possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness, swelling, and pain in inflamed gums.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid with strong anti-inflammatory effects that inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, helping to soothe irritated gums.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, aiding in the treatment of gum inflammation and preventing infection.
- Chamazulene: This chemical compound shows remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate pain and protect gum tissue from further damage.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for inflamed gums.
- Boil 1 cup of water in a saucepan on medium heat for 3-5 minutes.
- Add 1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers to a teapot, then pour the boiling water over the flowers.
- Steep the tea for 5-7 minutes, allowing the chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties to extract.
- Strain the chamomile flowers from the tea using a fine mesh strainer.
- Drink the tea warm, up to three times a day, to soothe inflamed gums.
2. Echinacea
Echinacea tea aids in reducing inflamed gums due to its proven anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb contains active compounds, such as alkamides and caffeic acid, that inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which cause inflammation. Moreover, echinacea stimulates the immune system, enabling the body to combat infections that could lead to gum inflammation. Drinking echinacea tea also helps in reducing tissue irritation and promoting faster healing of damaged gum tissues.
Furthermore, its antimicrobial properties decrease the bacterial load in the oral cavity, consequently minimizing the risk of gum inflammation.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in echinacea tea that help with inflamed gums.
- Roots: Contain beneficial plant compounds that demonstrate anti-inflammatory properties, helpful for reducing gum inflammation.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants, the flowers can help soothe irritated gums and promote oral health.
- Leaves: Packed with tannins and other medicinal properties, leaves can help alleviate gum inflammation and support tissue repair.
- Buds: High in essential oils, buds contribute to the tea's potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, beneficial for inflamed gums.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in echinacea tea that aid with inflamed gums.
- Cichoric acid: Inhibits the growth of bacterial plaque that leads to gum inflammation.
- Chicory acid: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce gum inflammation.
- Essential oils: Exhibit antimicrobial activity, combating the bacteria that cause gum inflammation.
- Polysaccharides: Boost the immune system, supporting the body's ability to heal inflamed gums.
- Flavonoids: Possess antioxidant properties, reducing oxidative stress on inflamed gum tissue.
- Vitamin C: Promotes collagen synthesis, essential for maintaining gum tissue health.
- German chamomile: Contains bisabolol, an anti-inflammatory compound that reduces gum inflammation.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic echinacea tea for inflamed gums.
- Measure 2 teaspoons of dried echinacea flowers and leaves.
- Boil 1 cup of water in a teapot or saucepan for 3-5 minutes.
- Steep echinacea in hot water for 10-15 minutes, then remove.
- Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
- Drink tea 3 times a day, especially after meals, for inflamed gums.
3. Willow
Willow tea contains salicin, a compound that your body converts to salicylic acid.
This acid inhibits the production of prostaglandins, chemicals that trigger inflammation. When you drink willow tea, the salicin reduces the level of prostaglandins in your body, thereby alleviating inflamed gums. Additionally, willow tea boasts tannins, which possess astringent properties that help to soothe inflamed gums.
The anti-inflammatory and soothing effects of willow tea bring relief to inflamed gums, making it a natural remedy for this condition.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in willow tea that help with inflamed gums.
- Bark: Contains salicin, which is a natural anti-inflammatory compound, making it effective for treating inflamed gums.
- Leaves: Rich in tannins, which have astringent properties that can help reduce gum inflammation.
- Rhyzomes: Have high levels of phenolic acids and flavonoids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, useful for treating gum inflammation.
- Flowers: Contain flavonols, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them helpful for soothing inflamed gums.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in willow tea that aid with inflamed gums.
- Salicin: A natural anti-inflammatory compound that inhibits the production of prostaglandins, reducing inflammation and pain in the gums.
- Flavonoids: Antioxidant compounds that help reduce inflammation by scavenging free radicals and protecting gum tissue from damage.
- Tannins: Astringent compounds that help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated gums by constricting blood vessels and reducing fluid buildup.
- Essential oils: Volatile oils that contain antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth that can cause gum inflammation.
- Polyphenols: Antioxidant compounds that help reduce inflammation by modulating the immune response and reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic willow tea for inflamed gums.
- Gather 2-3 willow bark strips (1-2 inches long) from a sustainable source, snapping off outer bark to expose inner cambium.
- Place strips in a pot, adding 2 cups of water and bringing it to a boil for 10-15 minutes to extract the beneficial compounds.
- Remove pot from heat, letting the mixture steep for an additional 15 minutes to ensure optimal extraction.
- Strain the liquid, discarding the used willow bark and retaining the tea.
- Consume 1/2 cup of the cooled willow tea up to 3 times a day, swishing around inflamed gums for at least 30 seconds before swallowing.
4. Licorice
Licorice tea aids inflamed gums due to its active compounds, glycyrrhizin and flavonoids.
Glycyrrhizin boasts anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling in the gums. Flavonoids, abundant in licorice, further combat inflammation by inhibiting the release of inflammatory agents. Simultaneously, licorice tea's antimicrobial qualities suppress harmful bacteria, preventing gum infections.
Moreover, licorice encourages gum tissue regeneration, ensuring a healthy oral environment, diminishing inflammation.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in licorice tea that help with inflamed gums.
- Roots: Contain glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in gums.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids, providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects to soothe inflamed gums.
- Bark: Has tannins, which have astringent properties, helping to reduce inflammation and provide relief to irritated gums.
- Seeds: Contain essential oil with antimicrobial properties, helping to maintain oral hygiene and prevent gum inflammation.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice tea that aid with inflamed gums.
- Glycyrrhizin: Potent anti-inflammatory agent that reduces gum inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals.
- Flavonoids: Powerful antioxidants that protect gum tissues from damage caused by free radicals, reducing inflammation.
- Saponins: Natural cleansing compounds that help remove plaque and bacteria from the gums, reducing inflammation.
- Isoliquiritigenin: Strong antimicrobial agent that inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing gum inflammation.
- Liquiritin: Effective anti-inflammatory compound that helps soothe inflamed gums and promote healing.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice tea for inflamed gums.
- In a pot, combine 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of dried licorice root.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove the licorice root, then allow it to cool until warm.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey for added anti-inflammatory benefits and to enhance taste.
- Sip the tea slowly, gently swishing it around your gums for 30 seconds before swallowing.
5. Marshmallow
Marshmallow tea relieves inflamed gums due to its demulcent properties, which allow it to create a soothing film over the affected area.
This film, rich in antioxidants and mucilage, reduces inflammation by minimizing tissue irritation and combating oxidative stress. Marshmallow tea further promotes gum health by encouraging cell regeneration and boosting the immune system's response to infection. Additionally, it alleviates pain by numbing nerve endings and relaxing constricted blood vessels.
Ultimately, consistent consumption of marshmallow tea fosters a healthy oral environment, with notable improvements in gum inflammation.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in marshmallow tea that help with inflamed gums.
- Roots: Contain anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce gum inflammation.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids that can alleviate irritation and soothe inflamed gums.
- Flowers: Have antimicrobial properties that aid in preventing gum infections.
- Bark: Contains tannins that help reduce gum inflammation and promote healing.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in marshmallow tea that aid with inflamed gums.
- Mucilage: This slimy substance coats the mucous membranes, including the gums, to reduce irritation and inflammation.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidant compounds protect the gums from damage by free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and heal inflamed gums.
- Tannins: These astringent compounds help reduce inflammation and can help stop bleeding in the gums.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates provide a soothing, demulcent effect on the gums, reducing irritation and inflammation.
- Ascorbic acid: Also known as Vitamin C, this nutrient is essential for collagen production and gum health, and it has anti-inflammatory properties.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow tea for inflamed gums.
- Chop 3 fresh marshmallows into small pieces and place in a tea infuser.
- Boil 1 cup of water and let it cool for 2 minutes.
- Place the tea infuser with marshmallows in the hot water and steep for 5 minutes.
- Remove the tea infuser and discard the marshmallows.
- Sip the marshmallow tea slowly, allowing it to gently rinse your gums.
6. Cloves
Cloves tea helps with inflamed gums due to its active component eugenol, a natural anesthetic and anti-inflammatory agent.
This substance, found in the buds of the clove tree, inhibits the release of prostaglandins, chemicals that cause inflammation and pain. By preventing prostaglandin synthesis, cloves tea alleviates redness, swelling, and discomfort in affected gums. Moreover, eugenol exhibits antimicrobial properties, impeding the growth of harmful bacteria responsible for gum infections.
Regular consumption of cloves tea not only soothes inflamed gums but also promotes overall oral health.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in cloves tea that help with inflamed gums.
- Buds: Contain high concentrations of eugenol, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps soothe inflamed gums.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and volatile oils, possessing antibacterial properties that aid in reducing gum inflammation.
- Leaves: Packed with beneficial polyphenols, helping to decrease inflammation while also providing pain relief.
- Bark: Contains active compounds, such as tannins, that exhibit astringent and anti-inflammatory effects, beneficial for gum health.
- Seeds: A natural source of essential oils, such as croton oil, which exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, supporting gum tissue healing.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in cloves tea that aid with inflamed gums.
- Eugenol: A potent antioxidant and analgesic that helps reduce inflamed gums by inhibiting the release of inflammation-causing free radicals.
- Gallic acid: A powerful anti-inflammatory agent that helps soothe inflamed gums by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory compounds.
- Kaempferol: An antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that helps alleviate inflamed gums by neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation.
- Rutin: A flavonoid that helps strengthen and protect blood vessels, including those in the gums, by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cloves tea for inflamed gums.
- In a small pot, boil 1 cup of water and add 2-3 cloves, reducing heat to a simmer for 10 minutes.
- Turn off heat, cover pot, and let cloves steep for 10 more minutes to extract maximum benefits.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding cloves, and allow it to cool down to a warm temperature.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey for added soothing properties, if desired.
- Sip the cloves tea slowly, swishing it around your mouth gently for a few seconds before swallowing.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric tea provides relief for inflamed gums due to its active ingredient, curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
This compound inhibits the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing redness, swelling, and pain in the gums. Moreover, curcumin exhibits antimicrobial effects that help eliminate harmful bacteria in the mouth, promoting oral health and preventing gum inflammation. Additionally, its antioxidant properties aid in tissue repair and regeneration, further contributing to the healing process of inflamed gums.
Regular consumption of turmeric tea can maintain healthy gums by keeping inflammation at bay.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in turmeric tea that help with inflamed gums.
- Rhizomes: Contain curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce gum inflammation.
- Roots: Rich in antioxidants that promote oral health, helping to soothe irritated gums.
- Leaves: Packed with essential oils and vitamins that possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, aiding in gum inflammation reduction.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in turmeric tea that aid with inflamed gums.
- Curcumin: A powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that inhibits the activity of inflammatory enzymes, reducing gum irritation and swelling.
- Demethoxycurcumin: An antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that suppresses the production of inflammatory molecules, alleviating gum inflammation.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: A polyphenol with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that decreases oxidative stress and inflammation in gum tissues.
- Turmerone: A compound with anti-inflammatory effects that inhibits the activation of inflammatory cells, minimizing gum inflammation and pain.
- Ar-tumerone: A sesquiterpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, reducing gum inflammation and bacterial growth in the oral cavity.
- α-Turmerone: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities that soothes irritated gums and prevents gum infections.
- β-Turmerone: A sesquiterpene that displays anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, promoting gum healing and preventing gum disease.
- Curdione: A sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, helping to prevent gum infections and reduce gum inflammation.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric tea for inflamed gums.
- In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric, bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discard turmeric residue.
- Add honey and lemon juice to taste, stir well.
- Drink the tea while warm, repeat up to 3 times a day.
8. Ginger
Ginger tea aids inflamed gums due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and redness.
This results from gingerol, a compound in ginger, inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules. Moreover, gingerol acts as a natural analgesic, alleviating pain associated with gum inflammation. Ginger tea also boosts the immune system, helping the body fight off infections that can cause gum problems.
Lastly, its antibacterial properties further help maintain oral health by minimizing the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with inflamed gums.
- Roots: Contain gingerols and shaogals, which have strong anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflamed gums.
- Rhizomes: Rich in gingerol, a compound known to reduce inflammation and pain, making it ideal for treating gum inflammation.
- Leaves: High in antioxidants that fight gum inflammation, while also having antibacterial properties to prevent infections.
- Flowers: Contain bioactive compounds with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing gum inflammation.
- Buds: Rich in essential oils with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate pain and swelling in inflamed gums.
- Bark: Has high levels of antioxidants and analgesic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and provide relief from gum pain.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with inflamed gums.
- Gingerols: Gingerols possess powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce gum inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body.
- Shogaols: Shogaols are known to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation, making them effective at soothing irritated gums.
- Paradols: Paradols exhibit potent antioxidant activity that aids in neutralizing free radicals, promoting tissue repair, and reducing gum inflammation.
- Zingerone: Zingerone demonstrates antimicrobial effects, helping to maintain a healthy oral microbiome and preventing gum inflammation caused by harmful bacteria.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for inflamed gums.
- Peel and grate 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, then let it steep in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice for added soothing properties.
- Strain the tea to remove ginger pieces.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a warm temperature to avoid irritating the gums.
- Sip the tea slowly, gently swishing it around the mouth before swallowing.
9. Calendula
Calendula tea contains anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of compounds like flavonoids and triterpenoids.
These compounds inhibit the release of inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, providing relief to inflamed gums. The antibacterial properties of calendula tea, attributed to its essential oils, help in reducing the bacterial load in the oral cavity, further preventing gum inflammation. Calendula tea also promotes wound healing by stimulating the production of collagen, a crucial protein for tissue repair, making it effective in soothing damaged gums.
Lastly, its astringent qualities tighten and strengthen gum tissues, reducing their sensitivity and improving overall gum health.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in calendula tea that help with inflamed gums.
- Flowers: Contain high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing gum inflammation.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and volatile oils, leaves help soothe irritated gums and promote oral health.
- Stems: Provide analgesic and astringent properties, helping alleviate pain and reduce swelling in inflamed gums.
- Buds: Contain high concentrations of active compounds, offering rapid relief and healing for inflamed gums.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in calendula tea that aid with inflamed gums.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidants reduce inflammation by neutralizing free radicals.
- Saponins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate gum inflammation.
- Triterpenes: They have been shown to reduce inflammation and help soothe irritated tissues.
- Carotenoids: These antioxidants promote mucous membrane repair, supporting gum healing.
- Volatile oils: They have antimicrobial effects, aiding in the prevention of infections and maintaining oral health.
- Polysaccharides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflamed gums.
- Glycosides: They exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce redness and swelling in gums.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic calendula tea for inflamed gums.
- Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers and place them in an infuser.
- Fill a teapot with 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the calendula flowers in the hot water for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the infuser and let the tea cool down to a comfortable temperature.
- Rinse your mouth with the calendula tea, focusing on the inflamed gums.
10. Rosemary
Rosemary tea aids inflamed gums due to its anti-inflammatory properties, derived from rosmarinic acid and carnosol.
These compounds inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which cause inflammation. Furthermore, rosemary tea contains antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and support gum health. Additionally, its antibacterial properties combat harmful oral bacteria, preventing further gum damage.
Drinking rosemary tea also promotes circulation, ensuring nutrient-rich blood reaches the gums to support healing.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in rosemary tea that help with inflamed gums.
- Leaves: Contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce gum inflammation.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants that promote gum tissue healing.
- Stems: Have astringent properties that can help soothe inflamed gums.
- Buds: Packed with essential oils known to alleviate gum inflammation.
- Seeds: Contain beneficial acids that can fight gum inflammation.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in rosemary tea that aid with inflamed gums.
- Rosmarinic Acid: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce gum inflammation.
- Carnosol: Acts as an antioxidant and suppresses oral bacteria that cause gum inflammation.
- Carnosic Acid: Converts to carnosol in the body and shows potential for treating gum inflammation.
- Rosmanol: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, beneficial for treating gum inflammation.
- Eucalyptol: A known anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent that helps reduce gum inflammation.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary tea for inflamed gums.
- In a small pot, boil 2 cups of water for 5 minutes.
- Add 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary leaves and reduce heat to a simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the rosemary leaves.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a lukewarm temperature.
- Rinse your mouth with the rosemary tea for 30 seconds, then spit it out.
What is inflamed gums and how can it affect your life?
Inflamed gums, a medical condition also known as gingivitis, involve redness, swelling, and tenderness in the gum tissue surrounding the teeth.
Caused primarily by poor oral hygiene that allows plaque to accumulate, inflamed gums can cause significant discomfort and negatively impact people's lives. Eating, speaking, and even smiling become challenging due to the pain.
Furthermore, this condition, when left untreated, can progress to severe periodontal disease, leading to tooth loss and increasing the risk of developing other systemic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
What other natural remedies help with inflamed gums?
Sure, I'd be happy to help!.
One of the most common and effective natural remedies for inflamed gums is oil pulling, which involves swishing oil (such as coconut or sesame oil) around in your mouth for several minutes before spitting it out. This ancient Ayurvedic practice reduces bacteria and promotes oral health, thereby alleviating gum inflammation.
Another natural remedy is using a salt water rinse, which can help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth. Simply dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth with it for 30 seconds to a minute. Additionally, massaging your gums with a mixture of essential oils (such as tea tree, clove, or peppermint oil) can help to soothe inflamed gums and reduce pain.
These remedies can be used in conjunction with good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing to promote healthy gums and prevent inflammation.