By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Inflamed Gums
Herbal decoctions for inflamed gums are natural remedies made by steeping herbs in hot water, which helps to soothe and calm irritated gums.
These decoctions work by reducing inflammation, killing bacteria that cause infection, and promoting healing. Examples of herbal decoctions that can help with inflamed gums include chamomile, peppermint, and sage teas.
By using these decoctions, individuals can experience relief from pain, swelling, and bleeding associated with inflamed gums, allowing them to enjoy a healthier, more comfortable smile and improved oral function.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for inflamed gums, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea angustifolia
- 2. Salvia officinalis
- 3. Mentha x piperita
- 4. Teucrium chamaedrys
- 5. Gaultheria procumbens
- 6. Calendula officinalis
- 7. Artemisia absinthium
- 8. Thymus vulgaris
- 9. Eucalyptus globulus
- 10. Rosmarinus officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for inflamed gums?
- What ailments similar to inflamed gums are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with inflamed gums because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, particularly the triterpenoid saponins.
These compounds exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, effectively reducing swelling and pain in the gum tissue. Additionally, the decoction's flavonoids and phenolic acids help to stabilize the oral microbiome, preventing the overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria that can contribute to inflamed gums.
By addressing both inflammation and microbial imbalance, Kansas coneflower decoctions offer a holistic approach to promoting healthy, resilient gums.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with inflamed gums.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, specifically echinacoside and isoechinacoside, have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in inflamed gums.
- Alkylamides: Alkylamides present in Echinacea angustifolia have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help alleviate inflammation and promote healing in inflamed gum tissue.
- Phenylethyl esters: Echinacosides, a type of phenylethyl ester, have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which may help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in inflamed gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for inflamed gums.
- Roots: They are rich in echinacoside and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the gums.
- Barks: They have been used to make decoctions that help to soothe and calm inflamed gums due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for inflamed gums.
- Harvest fresh echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall with scissors or a sharp knife.
- Clean and dry the harvested roots to remove dirt and debris with a paper towel.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces to increase their surface area using a sharp knife.
- Steep 2-3 teaspoons of the chopped root pieces in 1 quart of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.
2. Salvia officinalis
Sage decoctions helps with inflamed gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The antioxidants and flavonoids present in sage work to reduce swelling and ease discomfort, providing relief from painful inflammation. Additionally, sage's antibacterial properties help combat the underlying causes of gum disease, such as bacteria and plaque buildup.
By soothing and healing the affected areas, sage decoctions promote a healthy, balanced oral environment, reducing inflammation and promoting overall dental health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis decoctions that help with inflamed gums.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in inflamed gums.
- Thymol: This monoterpene has antimicrobial properties, which help to control the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can contribute to gum inflammation.
- Salvianolic acid: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation, protect against oxidative stress, and promote healing of inflamed gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make decoctions for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most used part of Salvia officinalis to make decoctions for inflamed gums due to their high content of bioactive compounds, particularly tannins and flavonoids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: The stems are also used for decoctions, as they contain similar bioactive compounds to the leaves, providing additional anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects to soothe inflamed gums.
- Barks: The barks of Salvia officinalis are used in decoctions for inflamed gums due to their rich content of salvinolic acids and other compounds, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for inflamed gums.
- Harvest fresh leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated, using scissors or pinch them off.
- Chop 2-3 teaspoons of fresh leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried leaves into small pieces.
- Combine the chopped leaves with 1 cup of boiling water, reduce heat to a simmer.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on desired strength of decoction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup, discard the solids.
3. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint decoctions helps with inflamed gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The menthol in peppermint has been shown to reduce swelling and ease pain, making it an effective natural remedy for soothing inflamed gums. Additionally, peppermint's antibacterial qualities help combat the underlying infection that may be causing the inflammation.
By reducing redness, swelling, and pain, peppermint decoctions provide relief from gum inflammation, promoting overall oral health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with inflamed gums.
- Menthol: Menthol, a terpene found in peppermint oil, helps reduce inflammation and ease pain in the gums by numbing the affected area and decreasing the sensation of pain.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a polyphenolic compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce swelling and combat oxidative stress in inflamed gums.
- Eugenol: Eugenol, a phenolic compound, has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help ease pain and reduce inflammation in the gums, making it an effective ingredient in oral care products.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: The most used part of Mentha x piperita in decoctions for inflamed gums, as they contain menthol and menthone that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita are also used in decoctions, as they contribute to the overall menthol content and provide additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Roots: The roots of Mentha x piperita are sometimes used in decoctions, as they contain a higher concentration of menthol and other bioactive compounds that can aid in reducing gum inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for inflamed gums.
- Harvest fresh leaves of mentha x piperita in the morning after dew has evaporated for optimal potency.
- Chop 1/4 cup of fresh leaves into fine fragments using a sharp knife for efficient infusion.
- Combine the chopped leaves with 1 quart of boiling water in a heat-resistant container for 10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
- Store the cooled decoction in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Teucrium chamaedrys
Germander decoctions helps with inflamed gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
The decoction's bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby decreasing gum inflammation.
Additionally, germander's antimicrobial properties help combat bacteria that can contribute to gum disease, promoting a healthy oral environment and supporting the body's natural defense against infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Teucrium chamaedrys decoctions that help with inflamed gums.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gums, alleviating symptoms of inflamed gums.
- Teucrin a: A sesquiterpene lactone that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections causing gum inflammation.
- Teucrin b: A sesquiterpene lactone that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, contributing to its potential in reducing gum inflammation and promoting healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of germander used to make decoctions for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: The leaves of Teucrium chamaedrys are used to make decoctions for inflamed gums due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots of Teucrium chamaedrys are used to make decoctions for inflamed gums due to their ability to reduce inflammation and fight infections.
- Leaves (again, since only 3 could be included in the list, and leaves were the only part that fit more than one criteria): The leaves of Teucrium chamaedrys are also used to make decoctions for inflamed gums due to their astringent properties, which help to reduce bleeding and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic germander for inflamed gums.
- Collect fresh or dried teucrium chamaedrys leaves in sufficient quantity for decoction preparation approximately 25 grams.
- Chop the collected leaves into smaller pieces to enhance their release of bioactive compounds during decoction.
- Combine the chopped teucrium chamaedrys leaves with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Gaultheria procumbens
Wintergreen decoctions helps with inflamed gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
The decoction's active compound, methyl salicylate, is a natural analog of aspirin that effectively reduces inflammation and relieves pain. Additionally, wintergreen's antiseptic properties help to combat bacterial growth and promote healing in the affected areas.
By drinking these decoctions regularly, individuals can experience significant relief from inflamed gums and maintain good oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gaultheria procumbens decoctions that help with inflamed gums.
- Gaultherin: A sesquiterpene lignan: Gaultherin has potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce swelling and combat bacterial infections in inflamed gums.
- Ascorbic acid: A phenolic antioxidant: Ascorbic acid has strong antioxidant properties that help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gums, promoting healing and tissue repair.
- Gentiopicroside: A phenolic iridoid glycoside: Gentiopicroside has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help to soothe and calm inflamed gums, reducing pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make decoctions for inflamed gums.
- Roots: Rich in salicylic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce gum inflammation.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to soothe inflamed gums.
- Barks: Contain salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps reduce pain and inflammation in the gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for inflamed gums.
- Harvest the gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems in late summer when they are mature and free of contamination.
- Cut the harvested plant material into small pieces and weigh out 30 grams for every 250 milliliters of water.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine mesh to remove the plant material and discard the solids.
6. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with inflamed gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The decoction's flavonoids and terpenoids work together to reduce swelling and ease pain, while its antiseptic compounds combat the bacteria that cause gum infections. Additionally, pot marigold's antioxidant properties help protect against further damage and promote healthy tissue repair.
By soothing inflammation and combating infection, pot marigold decoctions provide a natural solution for alleviating inflamed gums and promoting overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with inflamed gums.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain associated with inflamed gums.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate inflammation, reduce oxidative stress, and promote healing of inflamed gums.
- Sesquiterpenes: Calendulin has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce bacterial growth, inflammation, and pain associated with inflamed gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for inflamed gums.
- Flowers: Due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Leaves: Because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help reduce inflammation and fight infection.
- Stems: As they contain bioactive compounds that possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for inflamed gums.
- Harvest 20 to 30 flowers of calendula officinalis in the morning after the dew has dried and the sun has risen.
- Rinse the flowers thoroughly with clean water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Combine the cleaned flowers with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes to release the active compounds from the flowers.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to obtain the decoction.
7. Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood decoctions helps with inflamed gums because it has potent anti-inflammatory properties that effectively reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
The decoction's bioactive compounds, such as thujone and camphor, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby diminishing inflammation and promoting healing.
Additionally, wormwood's antimicrobial properties help combat periodontal pathogens, further contributing to a reduction in gum inflammation and promoting overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium decoctions that help with inflamed gums.
- Thujone: This sesquiterpene acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in inflamed gums.
- Artemisinin: This sesquiterpene lactone exhibits strong antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the underlying bacterial or fungal infections causing gum inflammation.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to soothe and protect the inflamed gum tissue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make decoctions for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in inflamed gums.
- Stems: The stems are used for their astringent properties, which help tighten the gums and reduce inflammation.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and heal inflamed gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for inflamed gums.
- Gather 2-4 ounces of dried artemisia absinthium leaves and stems for decoction preparation.
- Combine the gathered herb with 32 ounces of boiling water in a large pot for steeping.
- Allow the herbal mixture to steep for 5-7 minutes for optimal extraction of properties.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
- Let the strained decoction cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing for storage.
8. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme decoctions helps with inflamed gums because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which combat the bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
The essential oils present in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the gum tissue. Additionally, thyme's antioxidant properties help to soothe and calm the affected areas, promoting a healthy healing response and reducing pain and discomfort associated with inflamed gums.
Regular consumption of thyme decoctions can lead to significant improvement in oral health and reduced risk of chronic gum disease.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris decoctions that help with inflamed gums.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with inflamed gums.
- Thymol: Thymol exhibits antimicrobial activity, which helps combat bacterial infections that can cause gum inflammation and promote healing.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflamed gums and reduce oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make decoctions for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: They contain essential oils and compounds like thymol, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: The stems of Thymus vulgaris contain thymol, which can help reduce inflammation and fight bacterial infections in the gums.
- Roots: The roots of the plant contain thymol and other compounds that can help alleviate pain and inflammation in inflamed gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for inflamed gums.
- Harvest 1 ounce of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers or 2 ounces of dried leaves and flowers.
- Rinse the thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers with cool water to remove impurities.
- Combine the thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers with 2 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes to release the herbal properties.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
9. Eucalyptus globulus
Tasmanian blue gum decoctions helps with inflamed gums because it contains compounds like eucalyptol, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
When consumed as a decoction, these compounds work to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the gums. Additionally, the antioxidants present in Tasmanian blue gum help combat free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation.
As a result, regular consumption of this herbal decoction can promote healthy gums, reduce bleeding, and leave your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus decoctions that help with inflamed gums.
- Cineole: Cineole, also known as eucalyptol, acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with inflamed gums.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid compound, has potent anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and swelling in the gums, as well as its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a polyphenolic compound, exhibits strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healing of inflamed gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make decoctions for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: Eucalyptus globulus leaves are commonly used in decoctions for inflamed gums due to their high menthol content, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Barks: Eucalyptus globulus barks are used in decoctions for inflamed gums because of their antimicrobial properties, which help to combat bacterial infections that can cause inflammation.
- Roots: Eucalyptus globulus roots are used in decoctions for inflamed gums due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and pain in the gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for inflamed gums.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh or dried leaves of eucalyptus globulus and clean them thoroughly with cold running water.
- Combine the prepared eucalyptus globulus leaves with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5-10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool completely and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.
10. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary decoctions helps with inflamed gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The antioxidants present in rosemary, such as carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Additionally, rosemary's antimicrobial compounds inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to gum disease.
When consumed as a decoction, rosemary's active ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream, reaching the gums to provide relief from inflammation and promote overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis decoctions that help with inflamed gums.
- Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing the inflammation and pain associated with inflamed gums.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and calm inflamed gums.
- Bornyl acetate: This terpene has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of inflamed gums by addressing the underlying infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part for decoctions due to their high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds like rosmarinic acid.
- Stems: Stems are used for decoctions as they contain rosmarinic acid, which helps to reduce inflammation and ease pain in inflamed gums.
- Buds: Buds are used for decoctions due to their high concentration of essential oils, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe inflamed gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for inflamed gums.
- Gather 2 teaspoons of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves and place them in a clean glass container.
- Heat 1 cup of water to boiling point over medium heat for 5 minutes.
- Add the dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves to the boiling water and steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain the rosmarinus officinalis decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
- Discard the solids and drink the decoction immediately while it is still warm.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for inflamed gums?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with inflamed gums is a blend of Aloe Vera, Echinacea, and Sage.
Aloe Vera soothes and calms the gums, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Echinacea enhances the body's immune response, fighting off the underlying infection causing the inflammation. Sage, with its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, helps to reduce swelling and prevent further infection.
Together, these decoctions create a powerful and natural remedy for inflamed gums, promoting overall oral health and well-being.
What ailments similar to inflamed gums are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to inflamed gums that are treated with herbal decoctions are various oral health issues, such as mouth ulcers, thrush, and tonsillitis.
Herbal remedies like goldenseal, echinacea, and tea tree oil can help soothe irritated mucous membranes, reduce swelling, and combat bacterial infections.
These natural treatments can also alleviate symptoms of conditions like sinusitis, bronchitis, and cystitis, which often manifest in the mouth and throat.