By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Inflamed Gums
Herbal teas for inflamed gums are natural remedies made from plant extracts that help alleviate swollen and painful gums.
These teas often contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, reducing inflammation and fighting off bacteria that cause gum infections.
Examples include peppermint, chamomile, and eucalyptus teas, which have been shown to soothe and calm inflamed gums, improving oral health and reducing discomfort, ultimately enhancing overall well-being and quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for inflamed gums, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea purpurea
- 2. Teucrium chamaedrys
- 3. Stevia rebaudiana
- 4. Ginkgo biloba
- 5. Salvia officinalis
- 6. Cinnamomum verum
- 7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 8. Zingiber officinale
- 9. Curcuma longa
- 10. Ulmus rubra
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for inflamed gums?
- What ailments similar to inflamed gums are treated with herbal teas?
1. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, teas helps with inflamed gums because it possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm swollen tissues.
The tea's high levels of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and rosmarinic acid work together to reduce inflammation and fight off infections. Additionally, Echinacea's ability to stimulate the production of white blood cells helps to boost the body's natural defenses, allowing it to recover from gum inflammation more efficiently.
This natural remedy promotes a healthier oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with inflamed gums.
- Icariin: A flavonoid glycoside, Icariin has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in inflamed gums by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Caffeic acid: A phenolic acid, Caffeic acid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria that cause gum inflammation and reduce inflammation by scavenging free radicals.
- Chlorogenic acid: A polyphenolic compound, Chlorogenic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in inflamed gums, promoting healing and tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make teas for inflamed gums.
- Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of alkaloids and glycosides that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They are used due to their rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids that help reduce inflammation and fight infection.
- Buds: They are used due to their high concentration of phenolic compounds that help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for inflamed gums.
- Harvest 1/4 cup of dried echinacea purpurea flowers and roots when flowers are in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested material in a single layer at room temperature for 7 to 10 days.
- Store dried echinacea purpurea in an airtight container to preserve its potency and flavor for 6 months.
- Boil 8 oz of water and then add 1 teaspoon of dried echinacea purpurea flowers and roots.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes and then strain the liquid before serving hot or cold.
2. Teucrium chamaedrys
Teucrium chamaedrys, also known as germander, teas helps with inflamed gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea contains compounds like teucrin and teucridin, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial growth. The antiseptic and antibacterial properties of Teucrium chamaedrys help to soothe and calm inflamed gums, promoting a healthy environment for the gums to heal.
Regular consumption of the tea has been found to effectively alleviate gum inflammation and improve overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Teucrium chamaedrys teas that help with inflamed gums.
- Rosmarinol: This diterpenoid exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort in inflamed gums.
- Carnosic acid: This phenolic compound has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the gums.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with gum inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of germander used to make teas for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: They are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and fight off bacteria that cause gum inflammation.
- Stems: They are used due to their astringent properties, which help reduce inflammation and constrict blood vessels, thereby reducing swelling in the gums.
- Roots: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain associated with inflamed gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic germander for inflamed gums.
- Harvest 25g of dried or fresh teucrium chamaedrys leaves and flowers from a trusted source in late summer.
- Chop the leaves and flowers into smaller pieces using a sharp knife for easier infusion.
- Combine the chopped herb with 250ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant container for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solid herb particles.
- Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature before consumption.
3. Stevia rebaudiana
Stevia rebaudiana, also known as stevia, teas helps with inflamed gums because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant contain compounds like kaempferol and quercetin, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and fight off bacteria that can cause gum disease. Drinking Stevia rebaudiana tea may help to soothe and calm inflamed gums, reducing pain and discomfort while promoting a healthy mouth environment.
Its natural properties make it a popular choice for oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Stevia rebaudiana teas that help with inflamed gums.
- Stevioside: This glycoside has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and pain associated with inflamed gums by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that may help combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the gums, promoting a healthy oral environment.
- Caffeic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gums, promoting healing and preventing further damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stevia used to make teas for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: Stevia rebaudiana leaves are used to make teas for inflamed gums due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Roots: Stevia rebaudiana roots are used to make teas for inflamed gums due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help to soothe and heal gum inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stevia for inflamed gums.
- Harvest 20 to 30 leaves of stevia rebaudiana when they are young and tender for optimal sweetness.
- Rinse the leaves with cold water to remove any dirt or debris from the plant.
- Chop the leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife to release their natural oils and flavor.
- Steep one teaspoon of chopped stevia rebaudiana leaves in one cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the leaves and enjoy the sweet tea.
4. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, teas helps with inflamed gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The flavonoids and terpenoids present in ginkgo biloba help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gums, promoting healing and soothing irritated tissues. This natural remedy has been traditionally used to alleviate gum inflammation and improve overall oral health, making it an effective and non-invasive solution for those suffering from inflamed gums.
Regular consumption of ginkgo biloba tea may help to alleviate discomfort and promote healthy gums.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with inflamed gums.
- Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone helps with inflamed gums by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby promoting healing and reducing pain.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound, quercetin helps with inflamed gums by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which can exacerbate gum inflammation and pain.
- Isorhapontigenin: A lignan phenolic compound, isorhapontigenin helps with inflamed gums by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to gum tissue damage and pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make teas for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: The leaves are the primary source of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties beneficial for gum health.
- Buds: Ginkgo biloba buds contain flavonoids and terpenoids that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing of inflamed gums.
- Seeds: The seeds contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe and protect inflamed gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for inflamed gums.
- Gather 2 ounces of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and 1 cup of water for the tea base.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried ginkgo biloba leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture and discard the solids after the steeping process is complete.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the tea for a sweeter flavor and to mask any bitterness.
- Serve the herbal ginkgo biloba tea immediately and store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
5. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with inflamed gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The antioxidants present in sage have been shown to reduce inflammation and fight off the bacteria that cause gum infections. The flavonoids in sage also help to reduce swelling and promote healing in the gums, making it an effective natural remedy for gum inflammation and promoting overall oral health and well-being.
This can lead to healthier gums and teeth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with inflamed gums.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and fights bacterial growth, which can contribute to gum inflammation.
- Tannins: A type of polyphenol that has astringent properties, which can help reduce swelling and ease pain associated with inflamed gums.
- Salvianolic acid: A water-soluble flavonoid that has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and protect inflamed gum tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make teas for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of salvene, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflamed gums.
- Stems: The stems also contain salvene, which is released into the tea, providing relief from gum inflammation.
- Buds: The buds of the Salvia officinalis plant are used for their antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial infections that may be contributing to gum inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for inflamed gums.
- Harvest fresh salvia officinalis leaves in the morning after the dew has dried for optimal flavor and aroma.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer for 7-10 days to remove excess moisture completely.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried salvia officinalis leaves for every 8 oz of boiling water used.
- Steep the dried leaves in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their active ingredients and flavors fully.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to enjoy a hot or iced salvia officinalis tea drink immediately.
6. Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamomum verum, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, teas helps with inflamed gums because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid, have been shown to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial growth, thereby alleviating gum inflammation. Additionally, the tea's astringent and antiseptic properties help to reduce swelling and promote healing, making it a natural remedy for gum inflammation and promoting overall oral health.
Regular consumption can lead to improved gum health and a reduced risk of gum disease.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum teas that help with inflamed gums.
- Cinnamaldehyde: This terpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the bacteria causing gum inflammation and alleviate pain and swelling in the gums.
- Eugenol: A phenolic compound, eugenol has strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help combat gum inflammation and prevent further irritation, promoting healing and soothing the affected area.
- Cinnamic acid: This phenolic compound exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which help reduce gum inflammation, prevent damage to gum tissue, and promote overall oral health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make teas for inflamed gums.
- Leaves: They are commonly used to make tea due to their anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm inflamed gums.
- Barks: The bark of Cinnamomum verum is also used to make tea, as it contains compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the gums.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Cinnamomum verum are often used in teas to combat inflammation and infection in the gums, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for inflamed gums.
- Harvest 10-15 cinnamomum verum branches from mature trees ensuring quality and freshness always.
- Clean and dry the harvested branches in a warm place for 2-3 days.
- Grind the dried cinnamomum verum branches into fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the ground powder with 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and serve hot or chilled depending on your preference and taste.
7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with inflamed gums because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The flavonoids and saponins present in licorice root tea have been shown to reduce swelling and ease pain. The antiseptic properties also help in preventing infection, promoting healthy gums and teeth. Additionally, licorice root tea's ability to soothe and calm irritated tissues makes it an effective remedy for inflamed gums, providing relief and promoting overall oral health.
It can be used as a natural alternative to conventional treatments.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with inflamed gums.
- Glycyrrhizin: A triterpenoid saponin that has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and pain in inflamed gums.
- Liquiritin: A flavonoid that exhibits antimicrobial activity, preventing the growth of bacteria that can cause gum infections and inflammation.
- Licoricidin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for inflamed gums.
- Roots: Used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflamed gums.
- Leaves: Employed in teas for their antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing of gums.
- Barks: Utilized in teas for their astringent properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in inflamed gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for inflamed gums.
- Harvest 20-30 dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra and store them in an airtight container.
- Measure 2-3 teaspoons of dried roots and place them in a tea infuser.
- Steep the roots in 8 oz of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
- Strain the tea into a cup and discard the solids.
- Serve the tea hot or cold and enjoy as a soothing herbal drink.
8. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with inflamed gums because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to reduce swelling and ease pain in the gums. The soothing and calming effects of ginger teas may also help to reduce the sensitivity of the gums, allowing for more comfortable eating and drinking.
Additionally, ginger's antibacterial properties can help to combat the underlying causes of gum inflammation, promoting a healthier and more balanced oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with inflamed gums.
- Gingerols: These gingerols, specifically 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help reduce inflammation and combat the underlying bacterial infections causing inflamed gums.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and calm inflamed gums, while also inhibiting the growth of bacteria that can exacerbate gum inflammation.
- Zingerone: Zingerone, a phenolic compound found in ginger, has potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling associated with inflamed gums, making it an effective constituent in herbal teas for gum health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for inflamed gums.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Zingiber officinale are used due to their high concentration of compounds with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Roots: Roots of Zingiber officinale are used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing pain and inflammation associated with inflamed gums.
- Leaves: Leaves of Zingiber officinale are used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in fighting infections and reducing inflammation in the gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for inflamed gums.
- Harvest fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes in late summer or early fall when the plant is mature.
- Wash the harvested rhizomes thoroughly with clean water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Slice the cleaned rhizomes thinly and evenly to facilitate infusion in hot water.
- Combine the sliced zingiber officinale rhizomes with 1 cup of boiling water in a tea infuser.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
9. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, teas helps with inflamed gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric tea has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with gum inflammation. Its antimicrobial properties also help combat the underlying bacterial infections that often contribute to gum inflammation. Additionally, curcumin's antioxidant properties help protect the gums from oxidative stress, promoting overall oral health and reducing the risk of gum disease.
This makes turmeric tea a valuable natural remedy for soothing inflamed gums.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa teas that help with inflamed gums.
- Curcumin: This polyphenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with inflamed gums.
- Demethoxycurcumin: As a curcuminoid, DMC exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, helping to combat the underlying bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the gums.
- Turmerone: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmerone helps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gums, promoting healing and reducing pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make teas for inflamed gums.
- Roots: They are rich in curcumin and other compounds that help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in inflamed gums.
- Leaves: They have anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm inflamed gums, reducing discomfort and pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for inflamed gums.
- Harvest 2-3 fresh turmeric rhizomes approximately 10-12 cm in length for every 500ml of water.
- Wash the rhizomes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris thoroughly.
- Peel the rhizomes using a vegetable peeler to expose the inner yellow flesh completely.
- Grate 1 tablespoon of the peeled turmeric rhizome using a fine grater for best results.
- Steep the grated turmeric in 500ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release its active compounds.
10. Ulmus rubra
Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, teas helps with inflamed gums because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The bark of the Ulmus rubra tree contains mucilages, which are complex carbohydrates that form a soothing gel-like substance when mixed with water. This gel-like substance coats the gums, reducing inflammation and providing relief from pain and discomfort.
The anti-inflammatory compounds in Ulmus rubra teas also help to reduce swelling and promote healing, making it a natural remedy for inflamed gums and oral health issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra teas that help with inflamed gums.
- Tannins: These astringent compounds help reduce inflammation and swelling in the gums by contracting blood vessels and reducing bleeding.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm inflamed gums, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections that can cause gum inflammation, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make teas for inflamed gums.
- Roots: Contain anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate swelling and discomfort in the gums.
- Leaves: Have antimicrobial and astringent properties that help combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for inflamed gums.
- Gather 1-2 tablespoons of dried ulmus rubra bark and 1 cup of boiling water for tea preparation.
- Steep the dried ulmus rubra bark in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release its active compounds.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids completely.
- Discard the solids and transfer the tea to a cup for serving immediately or refrigerate for later use.
- Consume 1/2 cup to 1 cup of the herbal tea within 30 minutes to an hour for optimal benefits.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for inflamed gums?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with inflamed gums is a blend of peppermint, chamomile, and calendula.
Peppermint tea helps to reduce inflammation and ease pain, while chamomile tea soothes and calms the gums. Calendula tea, rich in antioxidants, promotes healing and reduces swelling. Drinking a warm infusion of these teas can provide relief from inflamed gums, while also promoting overall oral health.
This combination can be steeped together for a soothing and effective remedy.
What ailments similar to inflamed gums are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to inflamed gums that are treated with herbal teas are various oral health issues, such as mouth sores, bad breath, and dental plaque.
Other conditions like ulcers, canker sores, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders also benefit from the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of herbal teas.
Teas like chamomile, peppermint, and calendula are commonly used to soothe oral irritations and promote a healthy mouth.