Last updated: Jul 07, 2024
10 best herbal essential oils for gum infection
Herbal essential oils for gum infection are natural solutions extracted from plants, used to treat periodontal diseases and promote oral health.
These oils contain antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat bacteria and reduce swelling in the gums, alleviating symptoms such as pain, redness, and bleeding. Examples of herbal essential oils that show promise in treating gum infections include tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and clove oil, which can be used topically or added to toothpaste.
By using these oils, individuals with gum infection can experience improved oral health, reduced discomfort, and increased confidence in their smile.
The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for gum infection, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree essential oils helps with gum infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat the bacteria that cause gum disease.
The oil's main compound, terpinen-4-ol, has been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans and other pathogens responsible for periodontal infections. Additionally, tea tree oil's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and pain associated with gum infections, promoting a healthy mouth environment.
By incorporating tea tree essential oils into your oral care routine, you can naturally soothe and treat gum inflammation.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in tea tree essential oils that aid with gum infection.
- Antimicrobial properties: Help to combat bacteria and reduce inflammation in gum infections by killing off the pathogens that cause them.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Reduce swelling and pain associated with gum infections by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Antioxidant properties: Protect against oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to gum disease progression.
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make essential oils for gum infection.
- Leaves: Rich in antimicrobial compounds, tea tree leaves help combat bacterial and fungal infections that cause gum inflammation.
- Buds: Containing high levels of cineole, a potent anti-inflammatory agent, tea tree buds aid in reducing swelling and pain associated with gum infections.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for gum infection.
- Harvest fresh leaves of melaleuca alternifolia plants in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Clean and dry the harvested leaves using a clean cloth to remove dirt and moisture.
- Steam distill 100g of dried melaleuca alternifolia leaves in a 500ml capacity still with 200ml water for 60 minutes.
- Separate the essential oil from the distilled liquid through decantation and filter it using a coffee filter paper.
- Store the resulting melaleuca alternifolia essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight lids at room temperature.
2. Eucalyptus globulus
Tasmanian blue gum essential oils helps with gum infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which allow it to effectively combat the bacteria that cause gingivitis and periodontal disease.
The oil's compounds, such as eucalyptol and alpha-pinene, have been shown to reduce inflammation and kill off pathogenic microorganisms, promoting a healthy balance in the mouth.
Additionally, Tasmanian blue gum essential oils' decongestant properties help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort associated with gum infection, making it an effective natural remedy for oral health issues.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in tasmanian blue gum essential oils that aid with gum infection.
- Antibacterial property: Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil has been shown to exhibit strong antibacterial activity against various bacteria, including those responsible for gum infections, such as Streptococcus and Staphylococcus species. This property helps to combat the infection-causing pathogens.
- Anti-inflammatory property: The oil's anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce swelling and pain associated with gum infections, promoting a more rapid recovery and minimizing tissue damage.
- Antioxidant property: Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil is rich in antioxidants, which help protect against oxidative stress and tissue damage caused by free radicals, thereby supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms and promoting overall oral health.
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make essential oils for gum infection.
- Roots: The roots of the Tasmanian Blue Gum contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and fight against bacterial infections, making them effective in treating gum infection.
- Barks: The barks of the Tasmanian Blue Gum contain tannins and phenolic acids, which have antimicrobial properties and help to combat oral pathogens responsible for gum infection.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for gum infection.
- Harvest fresh leaves of eucalyptus globulus in the early morning dew.
- Cleanse the harvested leaves by rinsing them gently with distilled water and air drying.
- Steam distill the cleaned leaves using a still at 100°c for 4-6 hours to extract essential oil.
- Filter the resulting essential oil through activated charcoal and store it in dark glass bottles at room temperature.
- Dilute the extracted essential oil with carrier oils like coconut or olive oil in a ratio of 1:3 for topical application.
3. Cajanus cajan
Pigeon pea essential oils helps with gum infection because of its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The oil contains a compound called cucurbitacin, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause periodontal disease. Additionally, pigeon pea essential oil's antioxidant properties help reduce inflammation in the gums, promoting healing and reducing pain.
By applying topical applications of this oil, individuals can effectively combat gum infections and prevent further damage to their oral health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in pigeon pea essential oils that aid with gum infection.
- Antimicrobial: The seeds contain compounds that exhibit antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria and fungi, which could help combat bacterial infections that contribute to gum disease.
- Anti-inflammatory: Pigeon Pea seeds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with gum infections.
- Antioxidant: The seeds are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the gums from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
The list below shows the primary parts of pigeon pea used to make essential oils for gum infection.
- Roots: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, pigeon pea roots help reduce swelling and pain associated with gum infections.
- Seeds: Containing antimicrobial agents, pigeon pea seeds inhibit bacterial growth and promote healing in infected gums.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pigeon pea for gum infection.
- Harvest 50 grams of fresh cajanus cajan leaves and chop them finely into small pieces.
- Combine the chopped leaves with 500 milliliters of carrier oil in a dark glass bottle and let it steep for 48 hours.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another container and discard the solids.
- Transfer the extracted oil to a clean, sterilized glass bottle and add 10 drops of grapefruit seed extract as a natural preservative.
- Store the finished essential oil in a cool, dark place for up to six months and use it twice daily as a mouthwash.
4. Origanum vulgare
Wild marjoram essential oils helps with gum infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat bacterial growth and reduce inflammation.
The oil's active compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to inhibit the development of biofilm-forming bacteria that contribute to gum infections. Additionally, wild marjoram essential oils' anti-inflammatory properties help soothe gums and reduce pain, promoting a healthy and balanced oral environment.
This natural remedy can be used topically or incorporated into mouthwashes to alleviate symptoms of gum infection.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in wild marjoram essential oils that aid with gum infection.
- Antimicrobial property: Marjoram oil's antimicrobial properties can help combat bacterial growth and reduce inflammation in the gums, effectively treating gum infections caused by bacteria.
- Anti-inflammatory property: The anti-inflammatory compounds in marjoram oil can reduce swelling and pain associated with gum infections, promoting healthy healing and reducing the risk of further complications.
- Antioxidant property: Marjoram oil's antioxidant properties can help protect the gums from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to chronic gum disease.
The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make essential oils for gum infection.
- Roots: The roots of the wild marjoram plant are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, making them effective in reducing swelling and pain associated with gum infections.
- Leaves: Wild marjoram leaves contain antibacterial properties that help combat the growth of bacteria responsible for gum infections, promoting healthy gums.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for gum infection.
- Harvest fresh origanum vulgare leaves in the morning after dew has dried.
- Wash the harvested leaves with cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Steam distill the washed leaves using 10 grams of leaves per 100 milliliters of distilled water for 4 hours.
- Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter paper into dark glass bottles.
- Store the origanum vulgare essential oil in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight.
5. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme essential oils helps with gum infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
The oil's thymol component has been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans and other oral pathogens, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy gums.
Additionally, thyme essential oils' antibacterial and antifungal properties help to soothe and heal gum tissue, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating gum infection symptoms.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme essential oils that aid with gum infection.
- Antibacterial property: Thyme essential oil contains compounds like thymol, which has potent antibacterial activity against a wide range of microorganisms, including those responsible for gum infections.
- Anti-inflammatory property: The essential oil of thyme has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain associated with gum inflammation and infection.
- Antioxidant property: Thyme essential oil is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals that can contribute to tissue damage and further exacerbate gum infections.
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make essential oils for gum infection.
- Roots: Thyme roots contain compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which have antibacterial properties that help combat gum infection-causing bacteria.
- Seeds: Thyme seeds are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, making them effective against gum inflammation and infection.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for gum infection.
- Harvest thymus vulgaris leaves fresh in the morning when they are dewy to ensure optimal oil content.
- Wash the harvested thymus vulgaris leaves thoroughly with distilled water and gentle soap.
- Steam distill the washed thymus vulgaris leaves using a clevenger apparatus for 2-3 hours.
- Collect the resulting essential oil and filter it through a coffee filter paper to remove impurities.
- Store the filtered thymus vulgaris essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids at room temperature.
6. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary essential oils helps with gum infection because of its antibacterial properties, which inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
The oil's natural anti-inflammatory compounds also reduce swelling and pain associated with gum infections. Additionally, rosemary oil's antioxidant properties help to promote healthy gum tissue and prevent further damage.
By applying the essential oil topically or incorporating it into a mouthwash, individuals can effectively combat gum infection and maintain good oral health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in rosemary essential oils that aid with gum infection.
- Antimicrobial properties: Rosemary essential oil has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity against various bacteria, including those that cause gum infections, thereby helping to reduce inflammation and prevent further infection.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The oil's anti-inflammatory compounds can help reduce swelling and pain associated with gum infections, promoting a faster healing process and reducing the risk of further damage to surrounding tissues.
- Antioxidant properties: Rosemary essential oil contains antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, which can contribute to gum disease and tissue damage, thereby protecting the gums and surrounding tissues from oxidative stress.
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make essential oils for gum infection.
- Roots: Rosemary roots are valued for their antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial infections that cause gum disease.
- Leaves: The leaves of the rosemary plant contain camphor and borneol, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects that can aid in treating gum infection.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for gum infection.
- Harvest fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves and flowers in abundance.
- Dry the plant material thoroughly to prevent any mold growth during processing.
- Crush the dried plant material into small pieces to increase its surface area.
- Steam distill the crushed plant material using a still and collect the essential oil.
- Separate the essential oil from water by cooling it down and observing its separation.
7. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender essential oils helps with gum infection because of its antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat the bacteria that cause inflammation and discomfort.
The oil's antibacterial agents, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, target the source of the issue, reducing swelling and redness. Additionally, lavender's anti-inflammatory compounds help soothe irritated gums, promoting a healthy environment for healing.
As a result, English lavender essential oils can provide relief from gum infection symptoms, promoting a fresher, healthier smile.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with gum infection.
- Antimicrobial property: Lavender essential oil has been shown to exhibit antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help combat the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause gum infections.
- Anti-inflammatory property: Lavender oil's anti-inflammatory compounds can reduce swelling and pain in the gums, making it an effective natural remedy for gum infection treatment.
- Antioxidant property: Lavender essential oil contains antioxidants that can protect the gums from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to gum disease.
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for gum infection.
- Roots: Rich in antimicrobial compounds, making them effective against bacterial infections like gum disease.
- Flowers: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with gum infection.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for gum infection.
- Harvest fresh lavandula angustifolia leaves and flowers at dawn or dusk when oil content is highest.
- Dry the harvested materials in a warm, dark place for 7-10 days to reduce moisture content.
- Use a high-quality still or cold press to extract the essential oil from dried plant material within 30 minutes.
- Distill 100g of dried lavandula angustifolia with 500ml of distilled water at a temperature range of 65-75°c for 1 hour.
- Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter or paper towel to remove any impurities and sediment within 15 minutes.
8. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold essential oils helps with gum infection because of its natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties.
The oil's active compounds, such as flavonoids and terpenes, work to combat the bacteria that cause periodontal disease, reducing inflammation and swelling in the gums. Additionally, pot marigold oil's antimicrobial properties help to prevent further bacterial growth, promoting a healthy oral environment and soothing gum pain and discomfort.
As a result, this natural essential oil can be a valuable addition to a oral care routine for managing gum infections.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in pot marigold essential oils that aid with gum infection.
- Antibacterial: Calendula essential oil has antibacterial properties that can help combat bacterial infections in the gums, reducing inflammation and preventing further infection.
- Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory compounds in Calendula essential oil can reduce swelling and pain associated with gum infection, promoting a healthy and calm oral environment.
- Wound-healing: Calendula essential oil has been traditionally used to accelerate wound healing, which is particularly beneficial for gum infections that may require surgical intervention or prolonged treatment.
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make essential oils for gum infection.
- Roots: The roots of the pot marigold plant contain antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds, making them effective in treating gum infections by reducing inflammation and preventing bacterial growth.
- Seeds: Pot marigold seeds have been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat gum disease due to their ability to reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for gum infection.
- Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested flowers using a dehydrator or air-drying method for 24 hours.
- Steam distill 100 grams of dried calendula flowers with 500 milliliters of water at atmospheric pressure for 2 hours.
- Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter and store it in a dark glass bottle.
- Allow the essential oil to mature for 24 hours before using it topically for gum infection treatment.
9. Zingiber officinale
Ginger essential oils helps with gum infection because of its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The oil's active compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to combat bacterial growth that causes gum infections, including gingivitis and periodontitis. Additionally, ginger's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and pain associated with infected gums, promoting healing and soothing the affected area.
By applying topical applications of herbal ginger essential oils, individuals can effectively manage gum infection symptoms and promote a healthy oral environment.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger essential oils that aid with gum infection.
- Anti-inflammatory property: Herbal ginger essential oil has potent anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce swelling, pain, and discomfort associated with gum infections, making it an effective natural remedy to alleviate symptoms.
- Antimicrobial property: The antimicrobial agents present in herbal ginger essential oil help combat bacterial growth, thereby preventing the spread of infection and promoting healthy gum tissue regeneration.
- Antioxidant property: Herbal ginger essential oil's antioxidant properties help protect the gums from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to the development of chronic gum infections.
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make essential oils for gum infection.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing swelling and pain associated with gum infections.
- Roots: Roots contain compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that help combat gum infections.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for gum infection.
- Harvest 10 pounds of fresh ginger root from your local garden or market.
- Dry the ginger in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 6 hours.
- Grind the dried ginger into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar.
- Steep 100 grams of the powdered ginger in 1 liter of high-proof vodka for 14 days.
- Filter the mixture through cheesecloth and discard the solids.
10. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel essential oils helps with gum infection because of its potent antibacterial properties, which effectively combat the underlying bacterial causes of periodontitis.
The oil's active compounds, such as anethole and fenchone, possess anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with gum infections.
Additionally, fennel essential oil has been shown to stimulate collagen production, promoting healthy gums and tissue regeneration, ultimately leading to a reduction in plaque buildup and prevention of further infection.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel essential oils that aid with gum infection.
- Antimicrobial property: Fennel essential oil has antimicrobial properties that help combat bacteria, viruses, and fungi that cause gum infections, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Anti-inflammatory property: Fennel oil's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling and pain in the gums, making it an effective natural remedy for gum infection relief.
- Antioxidant property: Fennel essential oil's antioxidant properties help protect the gums from damage caused by free radicals, reducing oxidative stress that can contribute to gum disease.
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make essential oils for gum infection.
- Roots: Fennel roots contain a high concentration of volatile oils, which helps to combat bacterial growth and reduce inflammation in the gums.
- Seeds: Fennel seeds have antimicrobial properties that can help to prevent the spread of infection and promote healing in the gums.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for gum infection.
- Harvest high-quality foeniculum vulgare leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has dried.
- Dry the harvested plant material using a food dehydrator at 60°c for 4-6 hours or air drying for 7-10 days.
- Steam distill the dried foeniculum vulgare plant material with water in a still at atmospheric pressure for 2-3 hours.
- Filter the obtained essential oil through a coffee filter paper into dark glass bottles and store them in a cool place.
- Mix 20 drops of foeniculum vulgare essential oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and apply it to the affected gum area twice daily.
How to best treat gum infection with herbal essential oils?
The best way to treat gum infection with herbal essential oils is to dilute them with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
Tea tree oil, known for its antimicrobial properties, can help combat bacteria and reduce inflammation. Apply the blend to the affected area using a cotton swab three times a day.
Additionally, peppermint oil's analgesic properties can help ease pain and discomfort.
What ailments similar to gum infection are treated with herbal essential oils?
Ailments similar to gum infection that are treated with herbal essential oils are tooth decay, mouth ulcers, and bad breath.
Oils like tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and clove oil have antibacterial properties that help combat bacterial growth and reduce inflammation, making them effective in treating these oral health issues.
These oils can be used as a natural remedy to promote healthy teeth and gums, reducing the need for chemical-based mouthwashes and toothpaste.