Last updated: Apr 20, 2024
10 best herbal teas for swollen gums
The top herbal teas for swollen gums are chamomile, calendula, and clove.
Chamomile tea, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, helps reduce inflammation and soothe pain. Calendula tea is rich in antioxidants, which promote healing and help alleviate discomfort. Clove tea, with its natural antiseptic and analgesic qualities, combats infection and numbs pain.
These teas offer a natural, caffeine-free solution to find relief from swollen gums.
1. Chamomile
Chamomile tea aids swollen gums due to its anti-inflammatory properties, sourced from the plant's flavonoids.
These flavonoids inhibit the release of inflammatory agents like prostaglandins and leukotrienes, reducing inflammation. Moreover, chamomile's antimicrobial characteristics combat bacteria that cause gum infections, further alleviating swelling. Its astringent quality also tightens tissues, reducing gum inflammation.
Lastly, chamomile tea contains azulene, known for soothing effects, thereby providing comfort to swollen gums.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with swollen gums.
- Flowers: Chamomile flowers contain anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling in gums.
- Leaves: Chamomile leaves have antiseptic qualities that aid in preventing gum infections.
- Seeds: The oil in chamomile seeds provides pain-relieving effects, beneficial for swollen gums.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with swollen gums.
- Alpha-Bisabolol: This terpene alcohol possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the redness, swelling, and irritation in the gums.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid exhibits strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, aiding in decreasing the inflammation and promoting gum tissue healing.
- Chamazulene: This aromatic compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to alleviate swollen gums while fighting off harmful bacteria.
- Matricin: This sesquiterpene lactone converts into chamazulene when chamomile is dried or processed, and it exerts anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, reducing pain and swelling in gums.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for swollen gums.
- Boil 1 cup of water and add 1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers.
- Simmer the mixture on low heat for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove chamomile flowers.
- Allow the tea to cool down until it's warm, but not hot.
- Rinse your swollen gums with the chamomile tea for soothing relief.
2. Calendula
Calendula tea relieves swollen gums due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties, derived from the calendula officinalis flower.
These flowers contain flavonoids, which inhibit the release of inflammatory agents in the body, reducing gum inflammation. Moreover, calendula tea boasts antiseptic qualities that combat harmful bacteria in the mouth, promoting oral health and decreasing gum swelling.
The soothing effect of drinking this tea also alleviates pain and discomfort associated with swollen gums. Furthermore, calendula tea's astringent properties tighten gum tissues, reducing the likelihood of future swelling.
Ultimately, the combination of these healing properties in calendula tea offers a natural, effective remedy for addressing swollen gums.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in calendula tea that help with swollen gums.
- Flowers: Contain anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling in gums.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and have analgesic effects to soothe painful gums.
- Stems: Contain therapeutic compounds that can alleviate gum inflammation and promote oral health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in calendula tea that aid with swollen gums.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidants reduce inflammation, helping to alleviate the discomfort of swollen gums.
- Triterpenes: Known for their anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, triterpenes help reduce swelling and promote gum tissue repair.
- Carotenoids: With antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, carotenoids support gum health by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing.
- Volatile oils: With their antibacterial properties, volatile oils help control harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of gum inflammation.
- Saponins: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties, helping to alleviate swelling and strengthen gum tissues.
- Polysaccharides: Known for their soothing and wound-healing effects, polysaccharides help reduce gum inflammation and support healthy tissue regeneration.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic calendula tea for swollen gums.
- Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers and place them in a tea infuser or loose in a teapot.
- Boil 8 ounces of water and pour it over the calendula flowers.
- Allow the tea to steep for 10-15 minutes for optimal herbal extraction.
- Remove the tea infuser or strain the loose flowers from the tea.
- Sip the calendula tea, gently swishing it around your mouth to soothe swollen gums.
3. Echinacea
Echinacea tea aids swollen gums due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties, derived from the echinacea plant's active compounds.
These compounds inhibit the production of inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, reducing swelling and discomfort in gum tissues. Moreover, echinacea exhibits antibacterial qualities that help minimize oral bacterial growth, contributing to a healthier oral environment. Consequently, echinacea tea alleviates swollen gums by diminishing inflammation and bacterial proliferation, promoting gum tissue healing and overall oral well-being.
Regular consumption of echinacea tea bolsters the immune system, enhancing the body's natural ability to combat infections, including those that affect the gums.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in echinacea tea that help with swollen gums.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants that aid in soothing irritated gum tissue.
- Leaves: Packed with tannins that help reduce swelling and promote gum healing.
- Buds: Loaded with essential oils that have antibacterial properties to alleviate gum inflammation.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in echinacea tea that aid with swollen gums.
- Cichoric acid: This compound possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling in gums.
- Echinacoside: Known for its antimicrobial effects, echinacoside aids in preventing gum infections that cause swelling.
- Rosmarinic acid: With strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant abilities, rosmarinic acid helps alleviate gum inflammation and promotes healing.
- Chicoric acid: As a potent antioxidant, chicoric acid protects gum tissues from oxidative stress and supports overall oral health.
- Essential oils: The volatile oils in echinacea have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe swollen gums and maintain oral hygiene.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic echinacea tea for swollen gums.
- Measure 2 teaspoons of dried echinacea flowers and leaves.
- Boil 1 cup of water in a teapot or saucepan.
- Add the echinacea to the boiling water, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the solids.
- Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day.
4. Ginger
Ginger tea assists with swollen gums due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties derived from gingerol, a bioactive compound in ginger.
This substance inhibits the production of inflammatory cytokines, chemicals that cause inflammation and exacerbate swelling. Furthermore, gingerol's antibacterial qualities combat harmful oral bacteria, reducing potential infections. Additionally, ginger facilitates increased saliva production, a natural defense mechanism against gum inflammation, while providing a soothing warmth that alleviates discomfort.
Thus, ginger tea effectively combats swollen gums through multiple mechanisms.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with swollen gums.
- Roots: Contain high levels of gingerols, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in gums.
- Rhizomes: Packed with antioxidants that promote oral health, they can soothe irritated gums and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: Rich in vitamins and minerals, they have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can alleviate swelling and fight gum infections.
- Flowers: High in antioxidants, they can help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and soothe swollen gums.
- Seeds: Contain essential oils that have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing gum swelling and promoting oral health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with swollen gums.
- Gingerols: Gingerols have potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling in gums by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals.
- Shogaols: Shogaols exhibit strong analgesic effects that alleviate pain and discomfort caused by swollen gums.
- Zerumbone: Zerumbone possesses antibacterial properties that aid in reducing gum inflammation by fighting the bacteria causing gum diseases.
- Paradols: Paradols exhibit antioxidant activities that protect gum tissues from oxidative damage and promote gum healing.
- Gingerdiols: Gingerdiols have been found to have anti-plaque effects that help control the buildup of plaque leading to gum inflammation.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for swollen gums.
- Peel and slice 1 inch of fresh ginger, then bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add sliced ginger to the boiling water, reduce heat, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove saucepan from heat, optionally strain out ginger pieces, and stir in 1 teaspoon of honey.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a drinkable temperature, then add a squeeze of half a lemon.
- Pour the ginger tea into a glass or mug, and sip slowly to soothe swollen gums.
5. Cloves
Cloves tea helps with swollen gums due to its active ingredient, eugenol, which possesses robust anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
This compound inhibits the release of prostaglandins, chemicals that cause inflammation, thus reducing swelling. Moreover, eugenol exhibits potent antibacterial qualities that combat harmful oral bacteria, promoting gum health. By improving circulation, cloves tea ensures that nutrients reach the gums efficiently, aiding in tissue repair.
Consequently, swollen gums find relief with cloves tea, experiencing a soothing, healing effect.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in cloves tea that help with swollen gums.
- Buds: Cloves' buds contain eugenol, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce swelling in gums.
- Flowers: Cloves' flowers are a rich source of antioxidants, which help soothe irritated gums and promote oral health.
- Stems: The stems of cloves contain essential oils, providing analgesic and antibacterial properties, beneficial for treating swollen gums.
- Buds' Essential Oil: Distilled from cloves' buds, the essential oil serves as a potent antiseptic and anesthetic, useful for alleviating discomfort caused by swollen gums.
- Bark: Cloves' bark is a natural source of phenolic compounds like eugenol, offering anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects for swollen gums.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in cloves tea that aid with swollen gums.
- Eugenol: A potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce swelling in gums.
- Gallic acid: Known for its antibacterial properties, it combats the infections causing gum inflammation.
- Kaempferol: A powerful antioxidant that helps in reducing the inflammation and promoting gum health.
- Oleanolic acid: With anti-inflammatory properties, it aids in reducing swelling and soothing gums.
- Rutin: A flavonoid that strengthens blood vessels, reducing leakage into gums and thus alleviating swelling.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cloves tea for swollen gums.
- Gather 1 cup of water, 3 whole cloves, and a small pot.
- Bring water to a boil in the pot, then add cloves.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding cloves.
- Allow tea to cool slightly before sipping slowly around affected gum area.
6. Turmeric
Turmeric tea helps with swollen gums due to its active ingredient, curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
This compound inhibits the activation of inflammatory cells, reducing swelling and pain in the gums. Moreover, curcumin displays antimicrobial qualities that combat harmful bacteria in the mouth, promoting oral health and further alleviating gum inflammation. Furthermore, turmeric tea's antioxidant abilities protect gum tissues from damage caused by free radicals, supporting overall oral health.
Lastly, regularly consuming turmeric tea can help maintain healthy gums by preventing plaque buildup, thus reducing the risk of gum inflammation.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in turmeric tea that help with swollen gums.
- Rhizomes: Contain curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce swelling in gums.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and antibacterial properties, helping to soothe irritated gums and fight infection.
- Roots: Historically used in Ayurvedic medicine for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping alleviate pain and swelling in gums.
- Flowers: Contain high levels of antioxidants that support oral health, reducing inflammation and promoting gum tissue repair.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in turmeric tea that aid with swollen gums.
- Curcumin: Possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness, swelling, and pain in gums.
- Demethoxycurcumin: Exhibits strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, aiding in tissue healing and alleviating gum inflammation.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities, which combat gum inflammation and bacterial infection.
- Turmerone: A key compound with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe swollen gums and maintain oral health.
- Ar-turmerone: Possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, useful for reducing pain and inflammation in swollen gums.
- α-Turmerone: Demonstrates anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, promoting gum health and fighting gum inflammation.
- β-Turmerone: Known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects, which aid in soothing swollen gums and preventing tissue damage.
- Curdione: A compound with anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate swelling and pain in gums.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric tea for swollen gums.
- In a pot, combine 2 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric; bring the mixture to a boil, taking 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, simmer the turmeric solution for 10 minutes to release its active compounds.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding solid residue; stir in 1 teaspoon of honey and a squeeze of lemon juice for flavor (optional).
- Allow the tea to cool down to a drinkable temperature, which typically takes 5-10 minutes.
- Sip the turmeric tea slowly, rinsing your mouth with each sip to soothe swollen gums.
7. Sage
Sage tea aids swollen gums due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which originate from the plant's active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and carnosol.
These substances inhibit the growth of harmful oral bacteria, reducing inflammation, and promoting gum healing. Sage's astringent qualities help constrict blood vessels and tighten gum tissues, alleviating pain and swelling. Moreover, the tea's antioxidants protect gum tissues from damage caused by free radicals, while its germicidal effects further prevent infections.
Overall, the combined actions of sage tea's active components explain its effectiveness in treating swollen gums.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in sage tea that help with swollen gums.
- Roots: Contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce swelling in gums.
- Rhizomes: Rich in antioxidants that promote gum tissue healing and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: Have antibacterial properties that help prevent gum infections and reduce swelling.
- Flowers: Contain soothing properties that alleviate pain and reduce swelling in gums.
- Bark: Has astringent properties that tighten gum tissue, reducing swelling and bleeding.
- Seeds: Contain essential oils that have anti-inflammatory effects, reducing swelling in gums.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage tea that aid with swollen gums.
- Carnosic acid: Acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect gum tissues from damage.
- Ursolic acid: Inhibits bacterial growth, reducing the cause of gum inflammation.
- Oleanolic acid: Promotes oral health by reducing plaque-induced bacterial growth.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage tea for swollen gums.
- Gather 2 fresh sage leaves, 1 cup of water, and a small pot.
- Bring the water to a boil in the pot, then add the sage leaves.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes to release sage's medicinal properties.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the sage leaves.
- Sip the warm sage tea slowly, allowing it to gently bathe swollen gums for soothing relief.
8. Rosemary
Rosemary tea helps with swollen gums due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which directly address the root cause of the swelling.
The rosemary plant contains essential oils, such as rosmarinic acid, that possess potent anti-inflammatory capabilities. These compounds inhibit the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, thereby reducing gum swelling.
Moreover, rosemary tea's antimicrobial properties aid in combating harmful bacteria in the mouth, contributing to improved oral health and a decrease in gum inflammation. By sipping rosemary tea, you also promote increased saliva production, which dilutes acidity in the mouth and washes away bacteria, further alleviating gum swelling.
Ultimately, rosemary tea's natural anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and saliva-inducing properties make it an effective solution for addressing swollen gums.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in rosemary tea that help with swollen gums.
- Leaves: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, rosemary leaves help reduce swelling in gums.
- Stems: Containing tannins that have astringent properties, rosemary stems help soothe irritated gums.
- Flowers: Packed with antioxidants, rosemary flowers aid in healing swollen gums and reducing inflammation.
- Buds: High in essential oils, rosemary buds provide relief from pain and swelling in gums.
- Bark: A source of rosmarinic acid, rosemary bark helps alleviate symptoms of gum inflammation.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in rosemary tea that aid with swollen gums.
- Rosmarinic acid: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling in gums.
- Carnosic acid: Exhibits antimicrobial effects, which can help control gum inflammation caused by bacterial infections.
- Carnosol: Offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, aiding in soothing swollen gums and promoting oral health.
- Chlorogenic acid: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate gum swelling and irritation.
- Rutin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, contributing to the reduction of gum inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary tea for swollen gums.
- In a small pot, boil 2 cups of water for 3-5 minutes.
- Add 2 teaspoons of fresh rosemary leaves, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture to remove leaves, discard solids, and preserve liquid.
- Allow tea to cool down to a warm temperature, do not drink it hot.
- Sip the rosemary tea slowly, letting it swish around swollen gums.
9. Thyme
Thyme tea's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, derived from its active compound thymol, directly address the causes of swollen gums.
This herbal remedy reduces inflammation by constricting blood vessels, diminishing irritation and promoting healing. Moreover, thyme tea inhibits the growth of harmful oral bacteria that cause gum infection, thus helping to alleviate the discomfort of swollen gums. Its astringent qualities further assist in tightening gum tissues, decreasing their sensitivity.
Consequently, drinking thyme tea offers a natural and effective solution to combat swollen gums.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in thyme tea that help with swollen gums.
- Leaves: Contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce swelling in gums.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants that promote oral health and soothe inflamed gums.
- Stems: Known for their astringent properties, stems help tighten gum tissue and alleviate swelling.
- Buds: Packed with essential oils and bioactive compounds that have potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects on swollen gums.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme tea that aid with swollen gums.
- Thymol: A potent antiseptic that helps reduce bacteria in the mouth, providing relief to swollen gums.
- Carvacrol: A powerful anti-inflammatory agent that helps decrease inflammation and soothes swollen gums.
- Linalool: A compound with antimicrobial properties that aids in preventing gum infections and reducing gum swelling.
- Terpinen-4-ol: A strong antioxidant that boosts oral health by neutralizing free radicals, alleviating swollen gums.
- γ-Terpinene: A compound with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that assist in reducing gum inflammation and fighting infections.
- p-Cymene: A compound that contributes to thyme's antiseptic properties, helping prevent gum diseases and reducing swelling.
- Camphene: A compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, aiding in the healing and soothing of swollen gums.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme tea for swollen gums.
- Boil 1 cup of water, then add 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the thyme's medicinal compounds to extract.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the used thyme leaves.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a comfortable temperature, ideally around body temperature.
- Sip the thyme tea slowly, swishing it around the mouth before swallowing, to soothe swollen gums.
10. Cinnamon
Cinnamon tea helps with swollen gums due to its anti-inflammatory properties, derived from the compound cinnamaldehyde.
This compound inhibits the release of arachidonic acid, a substance that triggers inflammation in the body. Moreover, cinnamon tea boasts antibacterial qualities that suppress the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, thereby reducing gum inflammation. The soothing warmth of cinnamon tea also increases blood flow to the gums, promoting healing and tissue repair.
Lastly, cinnamon tea's astringent nature helps reduce gum swelling by constricting the tissue, providing almost immediate relief.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in cinnamon tea that help with swollen gums.
- Bark: Contains antimicrobial properties that help reduce inflammation and fight infections responsible for swollen gums.
- Leaves: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that alleviate pain and swelling in gums, promoting better oral health.
- Flowers: Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that soothe irritation, reducing swelling in gums.
- Seeds: Contain essential oils that possess natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, effective at treating swollen gums.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in cinnamon tea that aid with swollen gums.
- Cinnamaldehyde: Possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce gum swelling.
- Eugenol: Exhibits strong analgesic effects that alleviate pain caused by swollen gums.
- Linalool: Displays antimicrobial qualities that help maintain oral hygiene and prevent gum inflammation.
- O-methoxycinnamaldehyde: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that aid in soothing swollen gums.
- Trans-cinnamic acid: Offers antimicrobial and analgesic benefits that help address the causes and symptoms of gum swelling.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cinnamon tea for swollen gums.
- Boil 1 cup of water and add 1 cinnamon stick, letting it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove cinnamon stick and stir in 1 teaspoon of raw honey until fully dissolved.
- Squeeze juice of half a lemon into the mixture.
- Optionally strain the tea to remove lemon seeds and pulp.
- Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day for swollen gums relief.
What is swollen gums and how can it affect your life?
Swollen gums are a condition characterized by the enlargement and inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth.
This issue occurs when there is an accumulation of plaque and bacteria along the gum line, causing irritation and infection. Swollen gums can lead to discomfort and pain, making it difficult for individuals to eat, drink, and perform oral hygiene routines.
In severe cases, swollen gums can result in tooth loss, further impacting a person's ability to eat and speak correctly, and can negatively affect their self-confidence and overall quality of life.
What other natural remedies help with swollen gums?
Swollen gums can be a sign of gum disease or other oral health issues, so it's important to address the problem promptly.
Several natural remedies alleviate swollen gums effectively. First, a saltwater rinse is a time-tested solution. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, then swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Saltwater reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Second, oil pulling with coconut oil is another popular method.
Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes, then spit it out. Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that help combat gum inflammation. Lastly, applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling. Wrap a few ice cubes in a cloth and hold it against your gums for 10-15 minutes, several times a day. The cold constricts blood vessels, which decreases swelling and numbs the pain.
Incorporating these natural remedies into your oral hygiene routine can provide relief and improve gum health.