By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Dental Plaque
Herbal creams for dental plaque are topical products containing natural ingredients that help prevent and reduce plaque buildup on teeth.
These creams typically contain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory herbs, such as neem, tea tree, and eucalyptus, which combat bacteria and soothe gums.
Examples include Neem & Aloe Vera Cream and Tea Tree Oil Cream, which have been shown to improve oral health and reduce bad breath, ultimately enhancing overall well-being and confidence in daily life.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for dental plaque, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Mentha x piperita
- 2. Satureja hortensis
- 3. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 4. Thymus vulgaris
- 5. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 6. Salvia officinalis
- 7. Origanum vulgare
- 8. Eucalyptus globulus
- 9. Calendula officinalis
- 10. Achillea millefolium
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for dental plaque?
- What ailments similar to dental plaque are treated with herbal creams?
1. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with dental plaque because of its antibacterial properties.
The menthol content in peppermint creams disrupts the biofilm formation of bacteria, which are responsible for dental plaque. By inhibiting the growth of bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, peppermint creams prevent the accumulation of plaque on teeth surfaces. This helps maintain good oral hygiene and reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, promoting a healthy smile.
Regular use of peppermint creams can also freshen breath and leave a cooling sensation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with dental plaque.
- Menthol: Helps with dental plaque by reducing the bacteria that cause plaque buildup and freshening the breath.
- Catechin: Helps with dental plaque by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and reducing inflammation, which can contribute to plaque formation.
- Limonene: Helps with dental plaque by reducing the adhesion of bacteria to tooth surfaces, thereby preventing plaque buildup.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for dental plaque.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which have antibacterial properties that help combat dental plaque.
- Roots: They contain a higher concentration of menthol and menthone compared to leaves and are often used to create more potent creams for dental plaque.
- Rhyzomes: They are used because of their rich content of menthone, which has antimicrobial properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria that cause dental plaque.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for dental plaque.
- Harvest 100g of fresh leaves at dawn when the dew is still present on the plant for optimal potency.
- Dry the leaves in a low-temperature oven at 30 degrees celsius for 2 hours to preserve their properties.
- Infuse 50g of dried leaves in 500ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at room temperature for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 5g of beeswax and 10ml of distilled water.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 40 degrees celsius for 30 minutes to create a smooth and consistent texture.
2. Satureja hortensis
Satureja hortensis, also known as summer savory, creams helps with dental plaque because of its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The key compound carvacrol in Satureja hortensis has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria associated with dental plaque, such as Streptococcus mutans, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Satureja hortensis help to reduce swelling and redness in the gums, promoting healthy oral hygiene and a beautiful smile.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Satureja hortensis creams that help with dental plaque.
- Caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene has antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria responsible for dental plaque.
- Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid exhibits antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, which can help prevent the formation and progression of dental plaque.
- Carvacrol: This monoterpenic phenol has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, inhibiting the growth of oral bacteria and reducing inflammation associated with dental plaque.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of summer savory used to make creams for dental plaque.
- Leaves: They are commonly used due to their antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help prevent the growth of plaque-causing bacteria.
- Flowers: The flowers contain compounds that exhibit antimicrobial properties, which help in reducing plaque and promoting oral health.
- Seeds: The seeds of Satureja hortensis contain essential oils with antibacterial properties, which help in preventing the formation of dental plaque.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic summer savory for dental plaque.
- Harvest 25g of fresh satureja hortensis leaves at dawn when dew is still present on the plant.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer at 40c for 24 hours to remove excess moisture.
- Infuse 10g of dried satureja hortensis leaves in 100ml of jojoba oil at 60c for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids after 30 minutes of squeezing.
- Mix 50g of the infused oil with 20g of beeswax and 10g of shea butter to create a smooth cream.
3. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with dental plaque because of its antimicrobial properties, particularly its ability to target and eliminate bacteria that contribute to plaque buildup.
The tea tree oil in these creams has been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary cause of tooth decay. By reducing bacterial presence, these creams promote a healthier oral environment, reducing plaque and the risk of associated gum disease and tooth decay.
Regular use can lead to improved oral hygiene and a reduced risk of dental problems.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with dental plaque.
- Cineole: As a terpene, cineole helps to reduce the growth of bacteria that cause dental plaque and gum inflammation by disrupting their cell membranes.
- Linalool: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria associated with dental plaque, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Carvacrol: As a phenolic compound, carvacrol exhibits antimicrobial activity that helps to kill bacteria and other microorganisms responsible for dental plaque buildup, promoting a healthier oral environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for dental plaque.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of tea tree oil, which has antimicrobial properties that help combat dental plaque and promote oral health.
- Buds: They are used due to their rich content of melaleuca oil, which has antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help prevent the growth of dental plaque.
- Stems: They are used as a source of melaleuca oil, which is used in creams to help reduce the formation of dental plaque and promote healthy gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for dental plaque.
- Harvest 10-15 percent essential oil from fresh melaleuca alternifolia leaves using steam distillation method for 2-3 hours.
- Combine 20 grams of beeswax with 10 grams of shea butter and 10 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Melt the beeswax-shea butter-coconut oil mixture in the double boiler over low heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Add 10 milliliters of melaleuca alternifolia essential oil to the cooled mixture and stir well for 5 minutes.
- Pour the herbal cream mixture into sterilized containers and allow it to set at room temperature for 30 minutes.
4. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, creams helps with dental plaque because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The essential oils present in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause dental plaque, including Streptococcus mutans.
By reducing the bacterial load, thyme creams can help to prevent the accumulation of plaque on teeth, promoting a healthy oral microbiome and reducing the risk of oral diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris creams that help with dental plaque.
- Thymol: Thymol is a phenolic compound that has antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque formation.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol is a terpene that exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help combat the bacteria and inflammation associated with dental plaque.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent the oxidation of oral bacteria and reduce the formation of dental plaque.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make creams for dental plaque.
- Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce plaque and prevent gingivitis.
- Flowers: Employed for their antiseptic and antibacterial properties to combat oral bacteria and reduce plaque formation.
- Stems: Utilized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and protect the gums, reducing plaque and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for dental plaque.
- Harvest 20g of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves by cutting them with scissors when they are in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 14 days to preserve their potency.
- Combine 20g of dried thymus vulgaris leaves with 100g of coconut oil in a double boiler to infuse their properties.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 hours of infusion time to obtain the herbal extract.
- Mix the herbal extract with 50g of shea butter and 20g of beeswax in a heat-resistant bowl to create the cream base.
5. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis, also known as rosemary, creams helps with dental plaque because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The essential oils present in rosemary have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to plaque formation, reducing the risk of gingivitis and other oral health issues. Additionally, rosemary's ability to reduce inflammation can help soothe and calm gums, promoting a healthier mouth environment.
This natural remedy can be a valuable addition to oral hygiene routines.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis creams that help with dental plaque.
- Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene acts as an antimicrobial agent, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque formation.
- Rosmarinic acid: As a polyphenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that lead to dental plaque and gum disease.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has been found to have antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the presence of bacteria in the mouth and prevent the formation of dental plaque.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make creams for dental plaque.
- Leaves: Used due to their high content of antioxidants and essential oils, such as carnosic acid, which have antimicrobial properties against dental plaque.
- Seeds: Used for their rosmarinic acid content, which helps reduce inflammation and prevents the growth of bacteria that cause dental plaque.
- Flowers: Used for their rosmarinic acid and other phenolic compounds, which exhibit antibacterial properties that help combat dental plaque.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for dental plaque.
- Harvest 100g of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves and 50g of its flowers at dawn when they are at their peak potency.
- Steam distill the harvested rosmarinus officinalis leaves and flowers in a ratio of 2:1 using a 100l apparatus for 4 hours.
- Filter the distilled product using a 10μm filter paper to remove impurities and achieve a clear liquid.
- Combine 200g of distilled rosmarinus officinalis essential oil with 800g of a vegetable-based cream base in a stainless steel mixing tank.
- Allow the mixture to emulsify in a cold room at 15°c for 24 hours before filling into 100ml glass jars for storage.
6. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, creams helps with dental plaque because of its antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds in sage, such as rosmarinic acid and camphor, inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause plaque and gum inflammation. Additionally, sage's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and swelling in the gums. Regular application of sage creams can promote healthy gums, prevent plaque buildup, and even freshen breath.
This makes sage creams a valuable addition to oral hygiene routines for maintaining good oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis creams that help with dental plaque.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that exhibits antimicrobial properties, helping to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque formation.
- Salvianolic acid b: A polyphenol that has been shown to possess antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, which can help reduce the accumulation of plaque-causing bacteria on teeth.
- Carvacrol: A terpene that has been demonstrated to exhibit antibacterial properties, effectively inhibiting the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque and promoting a healthy oral environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make creams for dental plaque.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have antimicrobial properties, making them effective in reducing plaque and preventing gum disease.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, helping to combat plaque and promote oral health.
- Stems: Although not as commonly used, the stems of Salvia officinalis contain some of the same beneficial compounds as the leaves, including antioxidants and antimicrobial agents that can aid in plaque control.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for dental plaque.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh salvia officinalis leaves on a sunny day at the peak of their fragrance.
- Clean the leaves thoroughly with distilled water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Steep 100g of the leaves in 500ml of distilled water for 15 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth to separate the liquid from the solids.
- Mix 50g of beeswax with 100g of coconut oil and 100ml of the infused liquid to create the cream.
7. Origanum vulgare
Origanum vulgare, also known as wild marjoram, creams helps with dental plaque because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in Origanum vulgare, such as carvacrol and thymol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque and gum disease. Regular use of Origanum vulgare creams may help reduce inflammation and prevent the accumulation of plaque, promoting healthier gums and teeth.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to support oral health and fresh breath.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum vulgare creams that help with dental plaque.
- Carvacrol: Acts as an antimicrobial agent, inhibiting the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque formation.
- Thymol: Exhibits antibacterial properties, helping to reduce the number of pathogens on tooth surfaces and prevent plaque accumulation.
- Rosmarinic acid: Displays antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, protecting the gums from oxidative stress and preventing the proliferation of bacteria associated with dental plaque.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make creams for dental plaque.
- Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, which help combat bacterial growth and prevent plaque formation.
- Roots: Contain compounds that reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial adhesion, making them effective in preventing dental plaque.
- Stems: Contain flavonoids and other compounds that have antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent the growth of bacteria that cause dental plaque.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for dental plaque.
- Harvest 100g of dried origanum vulgare leaves from mature plants during the flowering stage.
- Infuse the dried leaves in 500ml of cold-pressed sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container.
- Mix the infused oil with 10g of beeswax and 10g of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 30 minutes before transferring to a glass jar.
8. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, creams helps with dental plaque because of its antiseptic and antibacterial properties.
The menthol content in these creams helps to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that contribute to plaque formation. The antimicrobial properties of eucalyptus globulus inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth, thereby preventing the accumulation of plaque on teeth.
Regular application of these creams can lead to improved oral health and reduced risk of gum diseases.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus creams that help with dental plaque.
- Cineole: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that help kill bacteria responsible for dental plaque formation, thereby preventing plaque buildup and promoting oral health.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent oxidative stress in the mouth, making it harder for bacteria to form plaque.
- Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds have astringent and antimicrobial properties that help reduce the adhesion of bacteria to tooth surfaces, making it easier to remove plaque and prevent its formation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make creams for dental plaque.
- Leaves: Used due to their high tannin and essential oil content, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties effective against dental plaque.
- Barks: Utilized for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria causing dental plaque.
- Essential oils from barks: Also used for the same reasons as the barks, with their strong antimicrobial properties helping to control dental plaque formation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for dental plaque.
- Harvest 500g of fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves from mature plants to ensure optimal oil content.
- Steam distill the eucalyptus leaves at 50-70°c for 2 hours to extract essential oil.
- Combine 200g of distilled eucalyptus oil with 400g of beeswax in a heat-proof mixing bowl.
- Add 100g of sweet almond oil and mix until the beeswax is fully incorporated and melted.
- Pour the mixture into small containers and allow it to set at room temperature for 30 minutes.
9. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with dental plaque because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to plaque formation. Additionally, calendula's antioxidant properties help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the gums, making it easier to remove plaque and prevent its buildup.
This natural remedy can be used to maintain healthy teeth and gums, reducing the risk of dental problems.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with dental plaque.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds in Calendula officinalis creams have antibacterial properties, helping to reduce the formation of dental plaque by inhibiting the growth of bacteria responsible for plaque accumulation.
- Carotenoids: Specifically, carotenoids like beta-carotene in Calendula officinalis creams have antioxidant properties that help protect the gums from oxidative stress, which can contribute to the formation of dental plaque.
- Saponins: These triterpenoid compounds in Calendula officinalis creams have antimicrobial properties, which help reduce the microbial load in the oral cavity, thereby preventing the buildup of dental plaque.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for dental plaque.
- Flowers: They are the most widely used part of Calendula officinalis in dental care products due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Leaves: They also contain active compounds that help combat dental plaque and gum inflammation.
- Seeds: Some studies suggest that the seeds of Calendula officinalis have antimicrobial properties that can aid in preventing dental plaque formation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dental plaque.
- Harvest fresh calendula flowers when they are in full bloom and the petals are completely open.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks.
- Combine 2 cups of dried calendula flowers with 1 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler and simmer for 2 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Whip 8 ounces of shea butter with 1/2 cup of the calendula infused coconut oil until smooth and creamy.
10. Achillea millefolium
Achillea millefolium, also known as yarrow, creams helps with dental plaque because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in yarrow, such as sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to plaque formation. By reducing inflammation and preventing bacterial growth, Achillea millefolium creams can help to prevent plaque buildup and promote a healthy oral environment.
Additionally, yarrow's antiseptic properties can help to soothe and calm irritated gums.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium creams that help with dental plaque.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque formation.
- Flavonoids: As a potent antioxidant, Quercetin can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the mouth, making it more difficult for bacteria to thrive and contribute to plaque.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have been found to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the accumulation of bacteria and prevent the formation of dental plaque.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make creams for dental plaque.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids which have antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent dental plaque.
- Flowers: They contain sesquiterpene lactones with antimicrobial properties, making them effective against plaque-causing bacteria.
- Stems: The stems of Achillea millefolium contain sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, which contribute to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in dental plaque prevention.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for dental plaque.
- Harvest the fresh achillea millefolium flowers and leaves for use in herbal creams in abundance.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 7 to 10 days.
- Combine 1 part dried flowers and leaves with 3 parts jojoba oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a double boiler or a dedicated herbal cream infuser at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 4 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and whip it with 10 grams of beeswax to create a smooth cream.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for dental plaque?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with dental plaque is a blend of neem and tea tree oil.
Neem has antibacterial properties that help reduce the formation of plaque, while tea tree oil has antifungal properties that prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause plaque and bad breath. Combining these two herbs in a gentle cream can help soothe gums and prevent plaque buildup, promoting healthy teeth and gums.
Regular use can also improve oral hygiene.
What ailments similar to dental plaque are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to dental plaque that are treated with herbal creams are fungal infections, such as athlete's foot and ringworm.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and neem have antifungal properties that help soothe and heal these conditions.
Additionally, herbal creams may be used to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, which share similarities with the inflammation and buildup caused by dental plaque.