10 Best Herbal Teas For Dental Plaque

Herbal teas for dental plaque are natural remedies that help combat the buildup of plaque on teeth, reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

They typically contain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to plaque formation.

Examples of effective herbal teas include peppermint, chamomile, and eucalyptus, which promote healthy gums and fresh breath, improving overall oral health and confidence.

The following article describes in detail the most important teas for dental plaque, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with dental plaque because it possesses natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The menthol content in peppermint tea has been shown to inhibit the growth of oral bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, which contribute to dental plaque formation. Additionally, peppermint tea's cooling effect on the gums may help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with plaque buildup, promoting a healthy oral environment and fresh breath.

This makes it a popular remedy for dental health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with dental plaque.

• Menthol: Menthol has antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque formation.
• Menthone: Menthone is known for its ability to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a type of bacteria commonly found in dental plaque.
• Limonene: Limonene has been shown to have antibacterial properties, which help to reduce the formation of dental plaque and prevent the development of various oral health issues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: They contain menthol, which has antibacterial properties that help reduce plaque and bad breath.
• Buds: They are rich in antioxidants and volatile oils, which have antimicrobial effects that help prevent oral infections.
• Roots: They contain sesquiterpenes, which have antibacterial properties that help combat plaque and gum inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for dental plaque.

1. Harvest a handful of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and stems for tea preparation purposes.
2. Chop the harvested leaves and stems into smaller pieces using a sharp knife.
3. Combine 2 teaspoons of chopped mentha x piperita with 1 cup of boiling water in a tea infuser.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes in a teapot or infuser.
5. Strain the tea into a cup and serve immediately or refrigerate for later consumption.

2. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with dental plaque because of its antibacterial properties.

The tea contains compounds like carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of oral bacteria, such as Streptococcus and Lactobacillus. By reducing the number of bacteria in the mouth, sage tea can help prevent the formation of dental plaque and promote good oral health.

Additionally, sage tea's anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe gum inflammation, further reducing the risk of plaque buildup.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with dental plaque.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial properties, which help to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause dental plaque, thereby preventing its formation.
• Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent the proliferation of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque.
• Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to inhibit the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation in the mouth, preventing the formation of dental plaque.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: They are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help reduce bacterial growth associated with dental plaque.
• Flowers: They are used due to their antibacterial properties, which help prevent the formation of dental plaque and promote oral health.
• Buds: They are used due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth associated with dental plaque.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for dental plaque.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh salvia officinalis leaves in the morning when the dew is still present on the plant.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer for 7-10 days at 35-40 degrees celsius in a well-ventilated area.
3. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried salvia officinalis leaves in a cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release the active compounds.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the herb particles and enjoy the tea.
5. Drink the tea immediately and store any leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to preserve the flavor.

3. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with dental plaque because of its antimicrobial properties.

The essential oils present in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for dental plaque and gum disease. By reducing the accumulation of bacteria on teeth, thyme tea can help prevent the formation of plaque and promote a healthy oral environment.

Regular consumption of thyme tea may also help to freshen breath and reduce the risk of oral infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris teas that help with dental plaque.

• Thymol: Thymol, a phenolic compound, has antimicrobial properties that help inhibit the growth of oral pathogens responsible for dental plaque, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a monoterpenic phenol, exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities that help combat the development of dental plaque by reducing the bacterial load and inflammation in the oral cavity.
• Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate, a sesquiterpene, has antimicrobial properties that help prevent the formation of dental plaque by inhibiting the growth of oral pathogens and reducing the adhesion of bacteria to tooth surfaces.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high content of antioxidants and antibacterial compounds that help combat dental plaque.
• Flowers: Thyme flowers are also used to make teas, as they contain antimicrobial properties that help reduce plaque and prevent gum disease.
• Buds: Thyme buds are another part used for tea, containing compounds that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help prevent and treat dental plaque.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for dental plaque.

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried thymus vulgaris leaves from a reputable source for every 8 ounces of water used.
2. Heat 8 ounces of water in a teapot to a temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Steep the dried thymus vulgaris leaves in the hot water for 5 to 7 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to remove solids.
5. Allow the herbal tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature before serving immediately.

4. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, teas helps with dental plaque because of its potent antimicrobial properties.

The tea's high content of compounds like alkylamides and caffeic acid helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to plaque formation. Additionally, Echinacea's anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce inflammation in the gums, promoting a healthier oral environment. The tea's ability to boost the immune system may also aid in fighting off infections that can lead to dental issues.

This makes Echinacea a promising natural remedy for maintaining good oral hygiene.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with dental plaque.

• Icariin: Icariin, a flavonoid glycoside, has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the growth of bacteria contributing to dental plaque.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help combat the inflammation and oxidative stress associated with dental plaque formation.
• Cichoric acid: Cichoric acid, a sesquiterpene lactone, has been reported to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help inhibit the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation in the mouth, thereby aiding in the prevention of dental plaque.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: They are used in teas for dental plaque as they contain compounds with antimicrobial properties that help combat oral bacteria.
• Flowers: They are used in teas for dental plaque as they have anti-inflammatory properties and contain compounds that may help reduce plaque and gum inflammation.
• Roots: They are used in teas for dental plaque as they are rich in compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to prevent and treat oral infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for dental plaque.

1. Gather fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves from a trusted herbal supplier or grow your own.
2. Dry the echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in a single layer at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of dried echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water in a teapot.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the herbs to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the tea into a cup and serve immediately, discard the solids.

5. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with dental plaque because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea's flavonoids and phenolic acids inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause plaque, reducing inflammation and preventing the formation of tartar. Additionally, dandelion root has been found to have a mild antibacterial action against Streptococcus mutans, a major contributor to tooth decay and plaque buildup. This makes Taraxacum officinale tea a potential natural remedy for maintaining good oral health.

Regular consumption may help prevent plaque and promote a healthier mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with dental plaque.

• Folinic acid: Folinic acid, a form of folate, has been shown to inhibit the growth of oral bacteria, thereby reducing the formation of dental plaque.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, exhibits antimicrobial properties that help combat the bacteria responsible for dental plaque.
• Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpene saponin, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which can contribute to the reduction of dental plaque and gum inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties to reduce plaque and gum inflammation.
• Flowers: Utilized for their antimicrobial properties to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause dental plaque and gum disease.
• Roots: Employed for their ability to reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth, making them effective against dental plaque and gum disease.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for dental plaque.

1. Gather 1 to 2 cups of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers or 1 tablespoon of dried taraxacum officinale.
2. Heat 8 ounces of water in a pot over high heat for about 5 minutes or until boiling.
3. Steep the taraxacum officinale in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
5. Let the tea cool down to a comfortable temperature before serving.

6. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, teas helps with dental plaque because of its antibacterial properties.

The active compounds in Melissa officinalis, such as rosmarinic acid and melissic acid, inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to plaque formation. Regular consumption of Melissa officinalis teas may reduce bacterial loads in the mouth, leading to a decrease in plaque accumulation.

This can help prevent conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis, promoting overall oral health and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis teas that help with dental plaque.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has been shown to inhibit the growth of oral bacteria, including those responsible for dental plaque formation.
• Limonene: A terpene found in Melissa officinalis, limonene has been reported to have antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the formation of dental plaque by inhibiting the growth of oral bacteria.
• Geraniol: This terpene has been found to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help prevent the formation of dental plaque by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the growth of oral bacteria.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: The leaves of Melissa officinalis are the most commonly used part in teas for dental plaque due to their antibacterial properties.
• Flowers: The flowers are used in teas for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat dental plaque and infections.
• Leaves: The leaves also contain compounds that have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria associated with dental plaque.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for dental plaque.

1. Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the sun intensifies.
2. Rinse the leaves gently with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Dry the leaves using a food dehydrator on a low temperature setting for 6-8 hours.
4. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried melissa officinalis leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and serve immediately to enjoy its calming and refreshing properties.

7. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with dental plaque because of its potent antimicrobial properties.

The tea's flavonoids and terpenoids have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi responsible for plaque formation. Additionally, Calendula's anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce gum inflammation and prevent the spread of plaque, promoting a healthier oral environment.

Regular consumption of Calendula tea may aid in maintaining a balanced oral microbiome and preventing the development of periodontal diseases.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with dental plaque.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have shown antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque formation.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help mitigate inflammation and oxidative stress associated with dental plaque and periodontal disease.
• Carotenoids: These compounds have been shown to have antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, which can help prevent the formation of dental plaque and reduce the risk of periodontal disease.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Flowers: The flowers are commonly used due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat dental plaque and gum inflammation.
• Leaves: The leaves are used in teas for their antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which can help reduce plaque and prevent oral infections.
• Stems: The stems are also used in teas for their antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the growth of bacteria that cause dental plaque.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dental plaque.

1. Harvest 2 tablespoons of calendula flowers from the garden or a local market early in the morning.
2. Rinse the flowers gently with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Steep the flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their medicinal properties.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the flowers and sediment.
5. Drink the tea immediately while it is still warm and within 30 minutes of preparation.

8. Cymbopogon citratus

Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, teas helps with dental plaque because of its antimicrobial properties.

The tea contains compounds such as citral and geraniol, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria associated with plaque formation. Regular consumption of lemongrass tea may help reduce the accumulation of plaque on teeth, ultimately contributing to a healthier oral environment.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may also help soothe and calm gums, promoting overall oral well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus teas that help with dental plaque.

• Citrals: Citrals, a type of terpene, have antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria associated with dental plaque, such as Streptococcus mutans.
• Limonene: Limonene, a terpene, has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent the accumulation of plaque-causing bacteria on tooth surfaces.
• Geraniol: Geraniol, a terpene, exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of dental plaque.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: They are commonly used to make teas for dental plaque due to their antimicrobial properties, which help reduce bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease.
• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Cymbopogon citratus are used to make teas for dental plaque due to their ability to inhibit the growth of oral bacteria, thereby preventing plaque buildup.
• Leaves: Leaves are also used to make teas for dental plaque, as they possess compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate gum inflammation and promote oral health.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for dental plaque.

1. Harvest fresh cymbopogon citratus leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the leaves in a single layer at 35 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
3. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried cymbopogon citratus leaves for every 250 milliliters of water.
4. Steep the dried leaves in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Strain and serve the tea immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

9. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, also known as rosemary, teas helps with dental plaque because of its antimicrobial properties.

The tea's active compounds, such as carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to dental plaque. This can help prevent the buildup of plaque and reduce the risk of conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis. Additionally, rosemary tea's anti-inflammatory properties may also help soothe and calm irritated gums.

Regular consumption may promote a healthier oral environment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis teas that help with dental plaque.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound exhibits antimicrobial properties, which help prevent the growth of bacteria that cause dental plaque.
• Carnosic acid: A diterpenoid with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, carnosic acid helps reduce the formation of dental plaque and prevent inflammation in the gums.
• Rosmaridin: A terpene with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, rosmarinidin helps combat the bacteria responsible for dental plaque and reduce inflammation in the oral cavity.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: High in antioxidants and essential oils, which help prevent bacterial growth and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
• Flowers: Contain antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for dental plaque and gum disease.
• Stems: Rich in rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth in the mouth.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for dental plaque.

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves from a reputable source.
2. Steep 1 tablespoon of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the leaves.
4. Discard the solids and drink the tea immediately to reap the benefits.
5. Store any leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in airtight containers.

10. Origanum vulgare

Origanum vulgare, also known as wild marjoram, teas helps with dental plaque because of its antibacterial 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 cause plaque buildup. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with gum disease.

By consuming Origanum vulgare teas, individuals can potentially prevent the formation of dental plaque and promote overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum vulgare teas that help with dental plaque.

• Carvacrol: This monoterpenic phenol has antibacterial properties that help inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for dental plaque and gum disease.
• Thymol: A phenolic compound similar to carvacrol, thymol has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help prevent the formation of dental plaque and reduce inflammation in the gums.
• Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the mouth, thereby preventing the formation and accumulation of dental plaque.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make teas for dental plaque.

• Leaves: Origanum vulgare leaves are used to make teas for dental plaque because they contain antibacterial properties that help reduce plaque and prevent gum disease.
• Flowers: Origanum vulgare flowers are used to make teas for dental plaque because they have antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause plaque and gum inflammation.
• Roots: Origanum vulgare roots are used to make teas for dental plaque because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, reducing plaque and gum inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for dental plaque.

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of fresh or 2 teaspoons of dried origanum vulgare leaves for the herbal tea.
2. Rinse the origanum vulgare leaves with cold water to remove impurities and bacteria naturally present.
3. Steep the origanum vulgare leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release flavors.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the origanum vulgare leaves completely.
5. Serve the herbal tea immediately and drink 1 to 3 cups per day as needed for medicinal purposes.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for dental plaque?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with dental plaque is a blend of peppermint, sage, and echinacea.

Peppermint tea helps reduce inflammation and freshen breath, while sage tea's antibacterial properties combat plaque-causing bacteria. Echinacea tea supports the immune system, enabling it to fight off infections. Together, these teas create a powerful mouthwash that not only reduces plaque buildup but also helps prevent gum disease and bad breath.

Drinking a cup of this herbal blend daily can promote a healthy, clean mouth.

What ailments similar to dental plaque are treated with herbal teas?

Ailments similar to dental plaque that are treated with herbal teas are conditions such as gum inflammation, bad breath, and oral thrush.

Certain herbs like peppermint, chamomile, and calendula have antibacterial properties that help combat these issues. Drinking herbal teas made from these plants can reduce swelling, alleviate discomfort, and promote a healthy mouth environment.

Additionally, herbs like sage and licorice root are used to soothe mouth sores and reduce inflammation.