By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Swollen Gums
Herbal tinctures for swollen gums are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and flowers that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
These tinctures help to alleviate swelling, reduce pain, and fight off infection in the gums. Examples of herbal tinctures that can help with swollen gums include peppermint, chamomile, and calendula.
By using these tinctures, individuals suffering from swollen gums can experience relief from discomfort and improve their overall oral health, allowing them to enjoy a better quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for swollen gums, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Salvia miltiorrhiza
- 3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 4. Echinacea angustifolia
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Hydrastis canadensis
- 7. Myrrhis odorata
- 8. Sambucus nigra
- 9. Equisetum arvense
- 10. Matricaria chamomilla
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for swollen gums?
- What ailments similar to swollen gums are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with swollen gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb contains a unique compound called calendula, which has been shown to reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with gum inflammation. When taken as a tincture, calendula works to soothe and calm the affected area, promoting healthy blood flow and reducing redness and discomfort.
Additionally, its antimicrobial properties help combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the swollen gums, making it an effective natural remedy for promoting oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with swollen gums.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort in swollen gums.
- Phenolic acids: These acids have antimicrobial properties that can help combat underlying infections and promote healing in swollen gums.
- Flavonoids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to swollen gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for swollen gums.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds.
- Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis contain flavonoids and saponins that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Roots: The roots of the plant contain triterpenoid saponins with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for swollen gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for swollen gums.
- Harvest the fresh calendula officinalis flowers at peak bloom and dry them completely to preserve their potency immediately.
- Weigh out 100 grams of dried calendula officinalis flowers for a standard tincture preparation requiring approximately 2 hours.
- Combine the dried flowers with 500 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar sealed tightly overnight.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and allow it to steep for at least 2 weeks to extract the active compounds slowly.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids and bottle the tincture immediately.
2. Salvia miltiorrhiza
Danshen tinctures helps with swollen gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and ease pain.
The tincture's active compounds, such as salvianolic acid B, inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby decreasing inflammation in the gums. Additionally, danshen's antioxidant properties help protect the gum tissue from oxidative damage, promoting a healthy environment that fosters healing and reduces bleeding.
This natural remedy provides relief for individuals experiencing swollen, tender gums.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia miltiorrhiza tinctures that help with swollen gums.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound, which acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in swollen gums.
- Salvianolic acid b: A polyphenolic compound, which has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation and promoting healing in swollen gums.
- Tanshinone iia: A diterpenoid compound, which exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, helping to control bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in swollen gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of danshen used to make tinctures for swollen gums.
- Roots: Rich in iridoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in gums.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in soothing swollen gums.
- Barks: Contain phenolic acids and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and promote healing in swollen gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic danshen for swollen gums.
- Harvest fresh salvia miltiorrhiza roots weighing about 100 grams after drying them for 2 weeks.
- Chop the dried salvia miltiorrhiza roots into small pieces for better tincture extraction in 30 minutes.
- Combine the chopped roots with 70 percent ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight for 2 weeks.
- Shake the mixture vigorously 2 to 3 times daily for 2 weeks in a sealed glass jar.
- Filter the tincture through a coffee filter and store it in a dark glass bottle for long-term use.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with swollen gums because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and soothe gum tissue.
The tannins and flavonoids present in licorice root have potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help to combat inflammation caused by bacteria, plaque, and other factors.
By reducing inflammation, herbal licorice tinctures can alleviate pain, discomfort, and redness associated with swollen gums, promoting a healthy and comfortable oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with swollen gums.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin is a saponin that has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and pain in swollen gums.
- Licopyranocoumarin: Licopyranocoumarin is a phenolic compound that may exhibit antimicrobial properties, preventing bacterial infections that can cause swollen gums.
- Isoliquiritigenin: Isoliquiritigenin is a flavonoid that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help to soothe and heal swollen gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for swollen gums.
- Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are used to make tinctures for swollen gums because of their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: Glycyrrhiza glabra barks are used to make tinctures for swollen gums because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Stems: Glycyrrhiza glabra stems are used to make tinctures for swollen gums because they contain saponins and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and soothe gum irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for swollen gums.
- Harvest 1:5 or 1:10 glycyrrhiza glabra root ratio with 60-80% ethanol and dry it for 2-3 days.
- Chop 250 grams of dried root into small pieces and place in a clean glass jar.
- Add 500 milliliters of 60-80% ethanol and seal the jar for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before use.
4. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with swollen gums because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
The tincture's active ingredients, such as salicylic acid and terpenes, work to combat inflammation by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Additionally, Kansas coneflower has antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections that can contribute to gum swelling.
By using herbal kansas coneflower tinctures, individuals can promote a healthy oral environment and reduce the risk of further gum complications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with swollen gums.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly echinacoside, may help reduce inflammation and swelling in gums by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds may help alleviate swollen gums by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thus reducing inflammation.
- Alkylamides: These bioactive compounds may contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects of Echinacea angustifolia, potentially helping to reduce gum swelling and promote overall oral health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for swollen gums.
- Roots: They are rich in compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and alleviate gum inflammation.
- Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and other compounds that exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat gum infections and inflammation.
- Flowers: The flowers possess alkaloids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can aid in reducing gum inflammation and promoting healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for swollen gums.
- Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of the roots of echinacea angustifolia in autumn or spring.
- Dry the roots in a single layer at 60-70 degrees fahrenheit for 1 to 3 weeks.
- Grind 1 part of the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix 1 part of the powdered roots with 2 parts of 80-proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and allow it to macerate for 2 to 6 weeks.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with swollen gums because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
The natural antioxidants present in dandelion root help to combat inflammation-causing free radicals, thereby alleviating gum inflammation.
Additionally, the antimicrobial compounds in dandelion tincture work to eliminate bacteria that can cause gum infections, promoting healthy gums and a reduced risk of swollen gums.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with swollen gums.
- Phenolic acids: They help with swollen gums by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the affected area.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a type of flavonoid, helps with swollen gums by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol helps with swollen gums by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and promote wound healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for swollen gums.
- Leaves: They contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling.
- Roots: The roots contain taraxasterol, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the underlying causes of swollen gums.
- Seeds: The seeds contain flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help alleviate swollen gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for swollen gums.
- Gather taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the ratio of 3 parts roots to 2 parts leaves.
- Dry the gathered taraxacum officinale parts in a warm place for 7 to 10 days.
- Crush 1 part of dried taraxacum officinale roots and 2 parts of leaves into a fine powder.
- Mix the crushed powder with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar in a 1:2 ratio.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks and then strain it.
6. Hydrastis canadensis
Goldenseal tinctures helps with swollen gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Berberine, a key compound found in goldenseal, has been shown to reduce inflammation and swelling by inhibiting enzymes that break down collagen, thereby reducing gum tissue damage. Additionally, goldenseal's antimicrobial properties help combat bacterial infections, which can contribute to gum inflammation.
By taking an herbal goldenseal tincture orally or applying it topically to the affected area, individuals may experience relief from swollen gums and a reduced risk of further infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis tinctures that help with swollen gums.
- Alkaloid: It has antimicrobial properties that help reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth, thereby alleviating swollen gums.
- Volatile oil: It possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and inflammation in the gums.
- Tannins: They have astringent properties that help reduce bleeding and inflammation in the gums, promoting healthy gum tissue and reducing swelling.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make tinctures for swollen gums.
- Roots: The roots of Hydrastis canadensis are used to make tinctures for swollen gums because they contain berberine, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: The barks are used to make tinctures for swollen gums because they also contain berberine, which helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the affected area.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make tinctures for swollen gums because they contain hydrastine, a compound that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for swollen gums.
- Harvest the roots of the plant in the fall after the first frost when they are mature and dry.
- Clean the roots thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris before proceeding.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and combine them with 80 proof vodka in a ratio of 1:2.
- Steep the mixture in a clean glass jar for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
7. Myrrhis odorata
Sweet cicely tinctures helps with swollen gums because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's active compounds, such as apiol and myristicin, work to reduce swelling and pain in the gums by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Additionally, sweet cicely has antimicrobial properties that help combat gum infections and promote a healthy oral environment.
As a result, regular use of sweet cicely tinctures can effectively alleviate swollen and painful gums, providing natural relief from discomfort and promoting overall oral wellness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Myrrhis odorata tinctures that help with swollen gums.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and ease pain associated with swollen gums.
- Coumarins: Coumarins, specifically scopoletin, have been found to have antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial infections that can cause swollen gums.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids, such as limonene and pinene, have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce inflammation and promote healing of swollen gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sweet cicely used to make tinctures for swollen gums.
- Roots: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate swelling and pain in gums.
- Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial properties, which help combat infections and promote healing in swollen gums.
- Barks: Utilized for their astringent properties, which help reduce swelling and inflammation in gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sweet cicely for swollen gums.
- Harvest 1 part of the aerial parts of myrrhis odorata by cutting them when in full bloom in summer.
- Cleanse the harvested myrrhis odorata with cold water to remove dirt and debris thoroughly.
- Dry the cleaned aerial parts in a warm dark place for 2 weeks to reduce moisture.
- Chop 1 part of the dried myrrhis odorata and combine it with 2 parts of a solvent such as ethanol.
- Steep the chopped myrrhis odorata in the solvent for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
8. Sambucus nigra
Elder tinctures helps with swollen gums because they contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and ease pain.
The tannins in elderflowers have a natural ability to constrict blood vessels, reducing bleeding and inflammation. Additionally, the antioxidants present in elderberries help to combat free radicals that can cause gum irritation and inflammation, promoting a healthy oral environment.
By reducing inflammation and fighting off irritants, elder tinctures provide effective relief for swollen gums.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with swollen gums.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, in Sambucus nigra tinctures exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in the gums by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid, in Sambucus nigra tinctures possess antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial infections that can cause swollen gums by preventing the growth and multiplication of bacteria.
- Vitexin: Vitexin, a flavonoid glycoside found in Sambucus nigra tinctures, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate swollen gums by reducing inflammation and protecting the gums from oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for swollen gums.
- Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part of Sambucus nigra to make tinctures for swollen gums due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: The barks are used to make tinctures for swollen gums as they contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and combat infections.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make tinctures for swollen gums due to their ability to reduce inflammation and fight off bacterial and fungal infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for swollen gums.
- Harvest 500g of fresh elderberry flowers and leaves from the plant when it is in full bloom.
- Clean the harvested materials thoroughly to remove dirt and debris by rinsing with cold water.
- Mix the cleaned materials with 50% of 80% ethanol by volume in a glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the container daily.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container.
9. Equisetum arvense
Field horsetail tinctures helps with swollen gums because of its rich anti-inflammatory properties.
The high concentration of antioxidants, flavonoids, and silica in the tincture reduces inflammation and swelling, providing relief to irritated gum tissue. Additionally, its astringent properties help constrict blood vessels, reducing bleeding and promoting healing.
As a result, field horsetail tinctures can effectively soothe and calm swollen gums, making it an excellent natural remedy for gum health maintenance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense tinctures that help with swollen gums.
- Sarsapogenin: A steroidal saponin found in Equisetum arvense, sarsapogenin has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain associated with swollen gums.
- Furanosesquiterpenes: Equisetum arvense contains furanosesquiterpenes, which have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, helping to combat infections and reduce inflammation in swollen gums.
- Coumarins: The coumarins present in Equisetum arvense have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help alleviate swelling, pain, and infection in swollen gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make tinctures for swollen gums.
- Roots: They are used due to their high content of compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate swollen gums.
- Leaves: They are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and combat infection, making them a potential remedy for swollen gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic field horsetail for swollen gums.
- Harvest approximately 1 pound of fresh equisetum arvense root and rhizomes in late spring or early summer.
- Chop the harvested equisetum arvense root and rhizomes into small pieces using a sharp knife.
- Combine the chopped equisetum arvense root and rhizomes with 5 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar every week.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
10. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with swollen gums because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
The soothing properties of chamomile also help to calm irritated gums and promote a healthy environment for healing. Additionally, chamomile's antimicrobial properties can help combat bacteria that contribute to gum inflammation.
By using an herbal chamomile tincture, individuals can experience relief from swollen gums and maintain good oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with swollen gums.
- Apigenin: An apigenin flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and pain associated with inflamed gums.
- Chamazulene: A sesquiterpene lactone, chamazulene exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help soothe and protect swollen gums.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid compound, luteolin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to alleviate swollen gums and prevent infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for swollen gums.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, the flowers have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help reduce swelling and pain in gums.
- Leaves: The leaves contain apigenin and other flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help combat gum infections and reduce inflammation.
- Seeds: The seeds contain sesquiterpene lactones that have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation in gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for swollen gums.
- Gather 1 part of matricaria chamomilla flowers and 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the flowers in the vodka for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Discard the solids and store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
- Label and date the bottle and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for swollen gums?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with swollen gums is a blend of Calendula, Echinacea, and Myrrh.
Calendula reduces inflammation and promotes healing, while Echinacea boosts the immune system to fight off underlying infections. Myrrh, with its antimicrobial properties, helps to combat bacteria and fungi that can cause gum inflammation.
This combination can be taken sublingually or added to water as a mouthwash to soothe and heal swollen gums, promoting a healthy and comfortable oral environment.
What ailments similar to swollen gums are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to swollen gums that are treated with herbal tinctures are various inflammatory conditions affecting the oral cavity.
These include mouth ulcers, gum recession, toothaches, and abscesses.
Herbal tinctures containing anti-inflammatory compounds like calendula, myrrh, and chamomile help reduce pain and swelling, while antiseptic properties of garlic, tea tree oil, and goldenseal aid in preventing infection and promoting healing.