By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Tooth Decay
Herbal teas for tooth decay are natural remedies made from plants and herbs that help prevent and reduce the risk of tooth decay.
They work by inhibiting the growth of bacteria in the mouth, reducing plaque and inflammation, and promoting healthy gums and teeth. Examples of herbal teas that help with tooth decay include peppermint, chamomile, and eucalyptus.
By drinking these teas, individuals can improve their oral health, boost their confidence, and enjoy a healthier smile.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for tooth decay, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Mentha x piperita
- 3. Echinacea angustifolia
- 4. Origanum vulgare
- 5. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 6. Lavandula angustifolia
- 7. Salvia officinalis
- 8. Cymbopogon citratus
- 9. Camellia sinensis
- 10. Eucalyptus globulus
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for tooth decay?
- What ailments similar to tooth decay are treated with herbal teas?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, teas helps with tooth decay because of its antimicrobial properties.
The essential oils present in the plant, such as cineole and terpinen-4-ol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to tooth decay, including Streptococcus mutans. By reducing the bacteria's ability to produce acid, tea tree tea helps to create an environment that is less conducive to tooth decay, promoting healthier teeth and gums.
Regular consumption may also help to reduce inflammation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia teas that help with tooth decay.
- Cineole: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, which help inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for tooth decay.
- Cymene: This terpene has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help reduce plaque and prevent the development of tooth decay.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of infection in the mouth, ultimately contributing to the prevention of tooth decay.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make teas for tooth decay.
- Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial and antifungal properties to help prevent tooth decay and gum infections.
- Barks: Utilized for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay.
- Roots: Employed for their antiseptic and astringent properties to help combat tooth decay and gum inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for tooth decay.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh leaves of melaleuca alternifolia in the early morning when the dew is still present.
- Clean the leaves thoroughly with filtered water to remove any dirt or debris that may be present.
- Steep one teaspoon of the leaves in one cup of boiling water for five to seven minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the leaves from the liquid.
- Allow the tea to cool completely before serving it in a cup.
2. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with tooth decay because it possesses antibacterial properties that inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary contributor to tooth decay.
The menthol in peppermint tea reduces inflammation and kills bacteria, thereby preventing the formation of plaque and promoting a healthy oral environment.
Additionally, peppermint tea stimulates saliva production, which helps to neutralize acids and remineralize teeth, ultimately reducing the risk of tooth decay.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with tooth decay.
- Menthol: Menthol has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce plaque and prevent the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Roscavin: Roscavin, a phenolic compound, exhibits antimicrobial activity and can inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a key bacteria responsible for tooth decay.
- Limonene: Limonene, a terpene, possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat oral infections and reduce inflammation associated with tooth decay.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for tooth decay.
- Leaves: Mint leaves are used to make teas for tooth decay due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay.
- Flowers: Mint flowers are used to make teas for tooth decay due to their antiseptic and antifungal properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause tooth decay.
- Leaves: The leaves of the mint plant are also used to make teas for tooth decay due to their antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of tartar on teeth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for tooth decay.
- Harvest fresh leaves and stems of the plant in the early morning to capture their highest essential oil content.
- Rinse the harvested plant material under cold running water to remove dirt and debris thoroughly.
- Dry the rinsed plant material in a single layer on paper bags or clean cloth for 2 to 3 hours.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried plant material in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes carefully.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to serve the herbal tea hot or chilled immediately.
3. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, teas helps with tooth decay because of its antimicrobial properties.
The plant's extracts contain compounds that inhibit the growth of bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, which are commonly linked to tooth decay. Additionally, Echinacea angustifolia has been shown to stimulate the immune system, increasing the body's natural defenses against infections.
This natural defense mechanism helps to reduce inflammation and prevent the progression of tooth decay, promoting overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia teas that help with tooth decay.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help prevent the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids from Echinacea angustifolia may have antimicrobial properties that can help control the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay and promote oral health.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Echinacea angustifolia tea may have antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of plaque, a key factor in tooth decay.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make teas for tooth decay.
- Roots: Alkaloids - Echinacea angustifolia root contains alkaloids, including isobutylamides and sesquiterpene lactones, which have antimicrobial properties that help combat tooth decay-causing bacteria.
- Roots: Glycosides - Echinacea angustifolia root also contains glycosides, such as cichoric acid, which may help reduce bacterial growth and inflammation associated with tooth decay.
- Roots: Polysaccharides - Echinacea angustifolia root's polysaccharides are believed to stimulate the immune system, which can help prevent infections and reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for tooth decay.
- Harvest 1 to 2 ounces of dried roots from the echinacea plant with a sterile knife.
- Clean the roots with a fine mesh strainer under cold running water for 1 minute.
- Dry the cleaned roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried echinacea roots in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture using a fine mesh strainer and discard the solids immediately.
4. Origanum vulgare
Origanum vulgare, also known as wild marjoram, teas helps with tooth decay because of its antibacterial properties.
The tea contains compounds that inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria responsible for tooth decay. The flavonoids and terpenes present in wild marjoram tea help to reduce plaque formation and prevent the bacteria from adhering to tooth surfaces.
Additionally, the tea's antiseptic properties help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the oral cavity, making it a potential natural remedy for preventing and treating tooth decay.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum vulgare teas that help with tooth decay.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol has antimicrobial properties that help inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for tooth decay, such as Streptococcus mutans.
- Thymol: Thymol has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent the proliferation of microorganisms in the mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in the gums, which can contribute to tooth decay.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make teas for tooth decay.
- Leaves: Known for their antibacterial properties, which help combat bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Leaves: Contain oils with antiseptic properties that can reduce inflammation and prevent infection in the mouth.
- Leaves: Have antifungal properties, which help combat fungal infections in the mouth that can contribute to tooth decay.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for tooth decay.
- Harvest fresh or dried origanum vulgare leaves and flowers to make herbal tea.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried origanum vulgare with 1 cup of boiling water to create tea.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors and oils to infuse.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove loose herbs.
- Serve the tea hot or cold depending on personal preference and desired temperature.
5. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis, also known as rosemary, teas helps with tooth decay because of its antimicrobial properties and ability to reduce inflammation in the mouth.
The antioxidants in rosemary tea have been shown to combat the bacteria responsible for tooth decay, such as Streptococcus mutans. Additionally, rosemary's antibacterial compounds may help prevent the formation of plaque and tartar, which can contribute to tooth decay.
This makes rosemary tea a potentially valuable addition to a dental health routine.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis teas that help with tooth decay.
- Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpenoid has been shown to inhibit the growth of oral bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, which are responsible for tooth decay.
- Rosmarinic acid: This ester of caffeic and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acids has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce plaque formation and prevent tooth decay.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has been found to exhibit antibacterial activity against various oral pathogens, including Streptococcus mutans, thereby reducing the risk of tooth decay.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make teas for tooth decay.
- Leaves: The leaves of Rosmarinus officinalis are rich in antibacterial compounds that help prevent tooth decay by reducing the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
- Flowers: The flowers of Rosmarinus officinalis contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of plaque, leading to a reduced risk of tooth decay.
- Stems: The stems of Rosmarinus officinalis contain compounds that have antimicrobial properties, which help prevent the growth of bacteria that contribute to tooth decay.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for tooth decay.
- Harvest 20-30 rosmarinus officinalis sprigs just before flowering for optimal flavor and aroma.
- Rinse the rosmarinus officinalis sprigs with cold water to remove dirt and debris instantly.
- Chop the rosmarinus officinalis sprigs into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped rosmarinus officinalis in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the rosmarinus officinalis tea through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the herbs completely.
6. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with tooth decay because of its antimicrobial properties, which combat the bacteria causing tooth decay.
The tea's high antioxidant content also helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth. Additionally, the tea's ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation can lead to improved oral health habits, such as regular brushing and flossing.
This can contribute to a reduced risk of tooth decay and promote overall oral well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with tooth decay.
- Linalool: This terpene acts as an antibacterial agent, inhibiting the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary bacteria responsible for tooth decay.
- Linalyl acetate: As an antimicrobial compound, linalyl acetate helps reduce the formation of plaque and prevent the development of tooth decay by inhibiting the growth of oral pathogens.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound exhibits antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent the degradation of tooth enamel caused by free radicals.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for tooth decay.
- Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Flowers: Utilized for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and preventing infection.
- Leaves: Used for their antioxidant properties, which help protect teeth and gums from damage caused by free radicals.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for tooth decay.
- Harvest the flowers by cutting the stalks of lavandula angustifolia with pruning shears when in full bloom.
- Dry the flowers by spreading them out in a single layer on paper towels for 2 weeks.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried flowers for every 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the dried flowers in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the oils.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and serve immediately.
7. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with tooth decay because of its antibacterial properties.
The tea contains flavonoids and phenolic acids that inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth, such as Streptococcus mutans, which contribute to tooth decay. Additionally, sage tea has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the gums, promoting a healthier oral environment. This leads to a reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease, promoting overall oral health.
Regular consumption of sage tea may support oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with tooth decay.
- Rosmarinic acid: This antioxidant helps prevent the formation of plaque and reduces the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which are primary contributors to tooth decay.
- Salvianolic acid b: It has been shown to inhibit the activity of cariogenic bacteria and reduce the production of volatile sulfur compounds, which can cause bad breath and contribute to tooth decay.
- Caryophyllene: This terpene has antibacterial properties, which can help reduce the growth of cariogenic bacteria in the mouth, thereby preventing tooth decay.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make teas for tooth decay.
- Leaves: They are rich in antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria causing tooth decay.
- Flowers: They have a soothing effect and contain flavonoids that help reduce inflammation and prevent the progression of tooth decay.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for tooth decay.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh or dried salvia officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning or late afternoon.
- Rinse the harvested salvia officinalis leaves and flowers with cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried salvia officinalis leaves or 2 teaspoons of fresh leaves in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the steeped salvia officinalis tea through a fine mesh sieve into a cup to remove loose herbs.
- Serve the salvia officinalis tea hot or chilled after 10-15 minutes of preparation to allow flavors to mature.
8. Cymbopogon citratus
Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, teas helps with tooth decay because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The essential oil extracted from the plant has been found to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria responsible for tooth decay. Additionally, lemongrass tea has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the gums, making it an effective natural remedy for preventing and treating tooth decay and promoting overall oral health.
This makes it a popular choice for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus teas that help with tooth decay.
- Limonene: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that help inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth, which can contribute to tooth decay.
- Geraniol: This terpene has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce plaque formation and prevent the development of caries.
- Cymbopogon citratus flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have antioxidant properties that help protect teeth from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to tooth decay.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make teas for tooth decay.
- Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial properties, which help prevent the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Rhyzomes: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and prevent infection in the gums.
- Leaves: Used for their antioxidant properties, which help protect against free radicals that can damage tooth enamel.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for tooth decay.
- Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh leaves and stems of cymbopogon citratus early in the morning.
- Rinse the harvested plant material gently under cold running water for 2 minutes.
- Chop the plant material into small pieces and let it steep in 1 liter of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl and discard the solids.
- Let the tea cool down to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
9. Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, teas helps with tooth decay because of its antibacterial properties.
The catechins and polyphenols present in the tea inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay. These compounds also help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of plaque on teeth.
As a result, regular consumption of Camellia sinensis teas may contribute to maintaining good oral health, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and promoting a healthy smile.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis teas that help with tooth decay.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound that helps prevent tooth decay by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the growth of oral bacteria.
- Catechin: A polyphenolic compound that acts as an antioxidant and antimicrobial agent, helping to prevent tooth decay by reducing plaque formation and inhibiting the activity of oral bacteria.
- Gallic acid: A phenolic acid that exhibits antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent tooth decay by inhibiting the growth of oral bacteria and reducing the formation of dental plaque.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make teas for tooth decay.
- Leaves: Used to make teas for tooth decay due to its antibacterial properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria causing tooth decay.
- Flowers: Used to make teas for tooth decay due to its anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in the gums.
- Buds: Used to make teas for tooth decay due to its antioxidant properties that help protect the gums and teeth from damage.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for tooth decay.
- Harvest 10-20 camellia sinensis leaves from mature plants for optimal flavor and nutrition.
- Dry the leaves in a single layer at 150-200 degrees fahrenheit for 15-30 minutes.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried leaves per 8-ounce cup of water for brewing.
- Steep the leaves in boiling water for 3-5 minutes to release their flavor and nutrients.
- Strain and serve the tea immediately to preserve its flavor and aroma.
10. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, teas helps with tooth decay because of its antibacterial properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as eucalyptol and limonene, work to reduce the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria, a common cause of tooth decay.
Additionally, eucalyptus oil in the tea has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce plaque formation and gum inflammation, ultimately preventing the progression of tooth decay and promoting a healthy oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus teas that help with tooth decay.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds have antimicrobial properties, which help prevent the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.
- Cineole: This terpene has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce plaque formation, prevent tooth decay, and alleviate gum inflammation.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce oxidative stress, prevent tooth decay, and promote gum health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make teas for tooth decay.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part for teas due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a natural antibacterial agent that helps prevent tooth decay.
- Barks: Barks are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay.
- Stems: Stems contain compounds that have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity, making them a useful addition to teas for oral health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for tooth decay.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves from the plant when they are young and tender.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Grind 1 teaspoon of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground eucalyptus globulus powder in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and serve it hot or cold to enjoy its refreshing flavor and aroma.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for tooth decay?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with tooth decay is a blend of Peppermint, Echinacea, and Sage.
Peppermint tea's antibacterial properties help combat oral bacteria, while Echinacea's immune-boosting properties aid in the body's natural healing process. Sage tea's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm gum inflammation, reducing pain and discomfort. Together, these teas create a powerful synergy that promotes healthy gums, reduces plaque, and prevents tooth decay, ultimately leading to a healthier and more radiant smile.
This combination is a natural and effective way to maintain oral health.
What ailments similar to tooth decay are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to tooth decay that are treated with herbal teas are gum disease, bad breath, and mouth sores.
Herbal teas like Sage, Chamomile, and Calendula have antibacterial properties that help combat these issues. Sage tea is known for reducing inflammation in the gums, while Chamomile tea has antiseptic qualities that soothe mouth sores.
Calendula tea, rich in antioxidants, can help to prevent bacterial growth and promote healing in the mouth.