By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Periodontal Disease
Herbal decoctions for periodontal disease are concentrated liquid extracts made from a combination of herbs, roots, and leaves that have been traditionally used to combat gum inflammation, bleeding, and tooth loss.
These natural remedies help reduce bacteria in the mouth, alleviate pain, and promote healthy gums by stimulating blood flow and reducing swelling. Examples include sage decoction, which helps reduce inflammation and freshens breath, and tea tree oil decoction, which has antibacterial properties that kill harmful bacteria.
By using herbal decoctions, people with periodontal disease can improve their oral health, regain confidence in their smile, and enjoy a more comfortable daily life.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for periodontal disease, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Sanguisorba officinalis
- 2. Salvia miltiorrhiza
- 3. Ginkgo biloba
- 4. Melissa officinalis
- 5. Teucrium chamaedrys
- 6. Sideritis scardica
- 7. Rosa rugosa
- 8. Mentha x piperita
- 9. Cissus quadrangularis
- 10. Foeniculum vulgare
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for periodontal disease?
- What ailments similar to periodontal disease are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Sanguisorba officinalis
Great burnet decoctions helps with periodontal disease because they possess potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The decoction's flavonoids and glycosides have been shown to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria that contribute to periodontal disease, reducing inflammation and gum bleeding.
Additionally, great burnet's astringent and antiseptic qualities help to reduce plaque formation and soothe gum irritation, promoting healthy gums and preventing further progression of the disease.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sanguisorba officinalis decoctions that help with periodontal disease.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid that helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in periodontal tissues, promoting healing and reducing the risk of further damage.
- Tannins: A type of polyphenol that has antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of bacteria responsible for periodontal disease and reducing plaque formation.
- Salicin: A glycoside that acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and pain associated with periodontal disease, and also has antimicrobial properties to combat bacterial infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of great burnet used to make decoctions for periodontal disease.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties to help reduce gum inflammation and prevent bleeding.
- Roots: Utilized for their antimicrobial properties to combat bacterial growth and promote healing of periodontal pockets.
- Stems: Employed for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects to soothe and protect the gums, reducing redness and swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic great burnet for periodontal disease.
- Harvest fresh roots of sanguisorba officinalis and clean them thoroughly with cold running water.
- Chop the roots into small pieces weighing about 10 grams per 250 milliliters of water.
- Combine the chopped roots with 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
2. Salvia miltiorrhiza
Danshen decoctions helps with periodontal disease because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as safflower yellow A, have been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria that contribute to gum inflammation and tooth loss. Additionally, danshen's antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and promote tissue healing, allowing for improved wound repair and reduced damage to periodontal tissues.
This natural remedy has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat a range of oral health issues, including periodontitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia miltiorrhiza decoctions that help with periodontal disease.
- Tanshinone iia: This diterpenoid quinone compound has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria responsible for periodontal disease.
- Salvianolic acid a: This water-soluble phenolic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect periodontal tissue from oxidative damage and inflammation caused by periodontal pathogens.
- Ligustilide: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria responsible for periodontal disease, as well as promote tissue repair and regeneration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of danshen used to make decoctions for periodontal disease.
- Roots: Used due to their high content of salvianolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for periodontal treatment.
- Leaves: Utilized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and promote healing in periodontal disease.
- Barks: Employed in decoctions for their ability to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, which can aid in the treatment of periodontal disease.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic danshen for periodontal disease.
- Clean 15g of dried salvia miltiorrhiza roots by rinsing them with cold water to remove any impurities.
- Grind the cleaned roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for about 5 minutes.
- Combine the ground roots with 500ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant container to make the decoction.
- Boil the mixture for 10 minutes then reduce the heat to simmer and let it steep for 30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.
3. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with periodontal disease because it contains a unique combination of flavonoids, saponins, and polyphenols that possess potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
These compounds have been shown to effectively combat the bacteria that cause gum disease, reduce inflammation in the gums, and improve blood flow to the affected areas.
By doing so, maidenhair tree decoctions can help to promote healthy gums, prevent tooth loss, and alleviate symptoms such as bleeding and pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with periodontal disease.
- Flavonoids: They help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gums, contributing to the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease.
- Bilobalide: It exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the gums from damage and promote healing in periodontal lesions.
- Ginkgo flavone glycosides: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting the growth of periodontal pathogens and reducing inflammation in the gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for periodontal disease.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba in decoctions for periodontal disease, as they contain flavonoids and bilobalide that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Seeds: The seeds are used in decoctions due to their high content of ginkgolic acid, which has been shown to have antibacterial properties that can help combat periodontal disease.
- Barks: The barks of the Ginkgo biloba tree are also used in decoctions, as they contain tannins and flavonoids that can help reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the gums and teeth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for periodontal disease.
- Choose 2-3 dried ginkgo biloba leaves weighing 2-4 grams and place them in a clean glass container.
- Boil 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan over high heat for 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add the ginkgo biloba leaves to the boiling water for 15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into another glass container discarding the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool for 30 minutes before consuming 20-30 milliliters 2-3 times daily.
4. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm decoctions helps with periodontal disease because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for causing gum disease, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum. Additionally, lemon balm's flavonoids and phenolic acids help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gums, promoting a healthy environment for tissue repair and regeneration.
By targeting both the underlying bacterial infections and inflammation, herbal lemon balm decoctions offer a natural and holistic approach to managing periodontal disease.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis decoctions that help with periodontal disease.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant properties that helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation associated with periodontal disease.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties that inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to periodontal disease progression.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid with antimicrobial properties that inhibits the growth of oral pathogens, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, which are involved in periodontal disease development.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for periodontal disease.
- Leaves: They are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial growth in the mouth associated with periodontal disease.
- Flowers: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate symptoms associated with periodontal disease.
- Roots: They are used for their antioxidant properties, which can help protect the gums and teeth from oxidative stress associated with periodontal disease.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for periodontal disease.
- Gather 20-30 grams of dried melissa officinalis leaves and flowers for a standard decoction dosage.
- Combine the dried plant material with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup or container.
- Allow the decoction to steep for 10-15 minutes before serving the final liquid.
5. Teucrium chamaedrys
Germander decoctions helps with periodontal disease because of its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as germanderin and quercetin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria that contribute to gum inflammation and tooth decay. Additionally, germander's antioxidant activity helps reduce oxidative stress in the oral cavity, promoting healing and reducing tissue damage.
By targeting both the bacterial and inflammatory components of periodontal disease, germander decoctions offer a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms and prevent further progression.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Teucrium chamaedrys decoctions that help with periodontal disease.
- Diterpenes: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the bacterial load and inflammation associated with periodontal disease.
- Flavonoids: As antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, flavonoids can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gums, promoting healing and reducing the progression of periodontal disease.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the bacterial load and inflammation associated with periodontal disease, promoting healing and reducing the risk of disease progression.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of germander used to make decoctions for periodontal disease.
- Leaves: They contain bioactive compounds that exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, useful in treating periodontal disease.
- Roots: The root of Teucrium chamaedrys contains alkaloids and flavonoids that may help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in the gums.
- Barks: The bark of the plant contains tannins and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and fight bacterial infections associated with periodontal disease.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic germander for periodontal disease.
- Harvest the aerial parts of teucrium chamaedrys in the summer months when the plant is in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested plant parts in a warm place with good air circulation for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried teucrium chamaedrys per 8 ounces of boiling water for decoction.
- Steep the dried plant parts in boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids to create the final herbal remedy for consumption.
6. Sideritis scardica
Ironwort decoctions helps with periodontal disease because it possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can effectively combat the bacteria responsible for the condition.
The decoction's bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to inhibit the growth of oral pathogens like Porphyromonas gingivalis, while also reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the gums.
By targeting these underlying causes, ironwort decoctions may help alleviate symptoms like bleeding, swelling, and pain associated with periodontal disease, promoting a healthier oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sideritis scardica decoctions that help with periodontal disease.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent tissue damage associated with periodontal disease.
- Caryophyllene oxide: As a sesquiterpene, caryophyllene oxide exhibits antimicrobial activity, inhibiting the growth of bacteria that contribute to periodontal disease, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis.
- Urosides: These triterpene saponins possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent the progression of periodontal disease.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ironwort used to make decoctions for periodontal disease.
- Leaves: Used due to their antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial growth associated with periodontal disease.
- Roots: Utilized because of their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the gums.
- Barks: Employed for their antibacterial and astringent properties, which help to prevent bacterial growth and reduce bleeding in the gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ironwort for periodontal disease.
- Gather 100 grams of dried sideritis scardica flowers and leaves to prepare the decoction.
- Combine the dried sideritis scardica with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Reduce the heat to a low simmer and let the mixture steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it for later use.
7. Rosa rugosa
Beach rose decoctions helps with periodontal disease because of its potent antibacterial properties, which help to eliminate harmful bacteria that cause gum inflammation and damage.
The decoction's anti-inflammatory compounds also reduce swelling and pain in the gums, promoting a healthy environment for reattachment of teeth to bone. Additionally, beach rose contains antioxidants that help to combat oxidative stress, further contributing to the healing process and prevention of future complications.
By targeting multiple aspects of periodontal disease, beach rose decoctions offer a natural and effective solution for maintaining oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa rugosa decoctions that help with periodontal disease.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the gums, which are major contributors to the progression of periodontal disease.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic acid has antimicrobial properties that help combat the bacteria responsible for periodontal disease, reducing the severity of the infection and preventing its progression.
- Gallic acid: This phenolic acid has potent antioxidant properties that help protect the gums from oxidative damage, reduce inflammation, and prevent the destruction of periodontal tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of beach rose used to make decoctions for periodontal disease.
- Roots: These are the most used parts of Rosa rugosa for decoctions to treat periodontal disease because they contain high amounts of salicylic acid and other compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Leaves from Rosa rugosa are used in decoctions due to their rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant effects.
- Buds: Rosa rugosa buds are also used in decoctions for their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent the progression of periodontal disease.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic beach rose for periodontal disease.
- Harvest 20-30 rosa rugosa flowers and leaves for their medicinal properties on a sunny day.
- Combine the harvested flowers and leaves with 1 quart of water in a saucepan to create a decoction.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat for 10-15 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the decoction for an additional 20-30 minutes to enhance the potency.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
8. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint decoctions helps with periodontal disease because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which combat the bacteria that cause gum inflammation and infection.
The menthol in peppermint also has analgesic effects, reducing pain and discomfort associated with periodontitis. Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce swelling and redness in the gums, promoting a healthier oral environment.
By incorporating herbal peppermint decoctions into your oral care routine, you can help alleviate symptoms of periodontal disease and promote overall gum health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with periodontal disease.
- Menthol: Menthol has antibacterial properties that help reduce the growth of pathogenic bacteria associated with periodontal disease, thereby preventing infection and inflammation.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic Acid, a polyphenolic compound, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in periodontal tissues, promoting healing and tissue repair.
- Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene, has demonstrated antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which help control the spread of periodontal pathogens and reduce inflammation in periodontal tissues, ultimately contributing to disease prevention and management.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for periodontal disease.
- Leaves: Contain menthol and menthone, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to help combat periodontal disease.
- Roots: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which may reduce inflammation and prevent the progression of periodontal disease.
- Buds: Contain bioactive compounds that may help reduce plaque formation, prevent bacterial growth, and alleviate periodontal inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for periodontal disease.
- Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Chop 20-30 grams of the harvested leaves into small pieces to release oils and flavors.
- Combine the chopped leaves with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
9. Cissus quadrangularis
Veldt grape decoctions helps with periodontal disease because it contains a unique combination of bioactive compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
The decoction has been shown to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria associated with periodontitis, reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the affected gums. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help protect against oxidative stress, which is known to exacerbate periodontal disease.
Regular consumption of veldt grape decoctions may help alleviate symptoms and improve oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cissus quadrangularis decoctions that help with periodontal disease.
- Oleanolic acid: Oleanolic acid has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial growth in periodontal disease.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid, has strong antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in periodontal disease, thereby promoting healing and preventing tissue damage.
- Isoquercetin: Isoquercetin, another flavonoid, has potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help combat periodontal disease by inhibiting the growth of periodontal pathogens and reducing inflammation in the affected tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of veldt grape used to make decoctions for periodontal disease.
- Stems: The stems of Cissus quadrangularis are used due to their high content of flavonoids and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Leaves: The leaves of Cissus quadrangularis are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help combat periodontal disease.
- Barks: The barks of Cissus quadrangularis are used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help control bacterial growth and reduce inflammation in periodontal disease.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic veldt grape for periodontal disease.
- Gather 10-20 grams of dried cissus quadrangularis roots and stems.
- Grind the dried roots and stems into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the powder with 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid reduces to half.
- Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
10. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel decoctions helps with periodontal disease because of its potent antibacterial properties, which combat the bacteria that cause gum inflammation and infection.
The decoction's anti-inflammatory compounds also reduce swelling and pain in the gums, promoting healthy healing. Additionally, fennel's ability to stimulate saliva production helps neutralize acids and remineralize tooth enamel, further supporting oral health.
By addressing these underlying factors, herbal fennel decoctions can effectively manage periodontal disease and promote a healthier mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with periodontal disease.
- Anethole: Anethole, a phenolic compound, has antimicrobial properties that help combat the bacterial growth associated with periodontal disease, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Ligustilide: Ligustilide, a sesquiterpene lactone, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain associated with periodontal disease, while also promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration.
- Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid, a phenolic acid, has antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with periodontal disease, thereby protecting the gums and teeth from damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for periodontal disease.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent the progression of periodontal disease.
- Seeds: Foeniculum vulgare seeds contain anethole, a compound with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in treating periodontal disease.
- Roots: The roots of Foeniculum vulgare are rich in essential oils and flavonoids, which help to reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and promote healing in periodontal disease.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for periodontal disease.
- Harvest fresh foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems for medicinal use from mature plants in the morning.
- Clean the harvested foeniculum vulgare thoroughly with fresh water to remove impurities and dust.
- Combine 2-3 teaspoons of dried foeniculum vulgare with 1 liter of boiling water to create the decoction.
- Reduce heat and simmer the decoction for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine mesh to remove the solid parts from the liquid.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for periodontal disease?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with periodontal disease is a blend of sage, chamomile, and licorice root.
Sage has antibacterial properties that reduce plaque and prevent infection, while chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm swollen gums. Licorice root's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the gums and teeth.
This combination can be taken as a decoction by steeping dried herbs in hot water and straining before drinking.
What ailments similar to periodontal disease are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to periodontal disease that are treated with herbal decoctions are gum-related conditions such as gingivitis, pyorrhea, and paradentosis.
Herbs like turmeric, clove, and neem are commonly used in decoctions to treat these conditions by reducing inflammation, killing bacteria, and promoting healing.
Decoctions made from these herbs have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help to soothe gum irritation and combat bacterial infections, providing relief from symptoms such as bleeding gums and bad breath.