By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Tooth Decay
Herbal tinctures for tooth decay are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and botanicals that have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
These tinctures help to combat tooth decay by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause cavities, reducing inflammation and pain associated with tooth decay, and promoting healthy gum tissue. For example, tea tree oil and clove oil tinctures have been shown to reduce plaque and bad breath, while peppermint and chamomile tinctures soothe mouth sores and gums.
By using herbal tinctures for tooth decay, individuals can experience improved oral health, reduced dental anxiety, and increased confidence in their smiles.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for tooth decay, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Teucrium polium
- 2. Melissa officinalis
- 3. Calendula officinalis
- 4. Commiphora myrrha
- 5. Thymus vulgaris
- 6. Echinacea angustifolia
- 7. Taraxacum officinale
- 8. Matricaria chamomilla
- 9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 10. Origanum vulgare
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for tooth decay?
- What ailments similar to tooth decay are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Teucrium polium
Wood sage tinctures helps with tooth decay because of its potent antimicrobial properties that effectively combat bacterial growth in the mouth.
The tannins present in wood sage also help to reduce inflammation and soothe gum irritation, creating a healthy environment for oral tissues.
Additionally, wood sage's astringent properties assist in tightening dental enamel, making it more resistant to acid erosion caused by decay-causing bacteria, ultimately promoting strong and healthy teeth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Teucrium polium tinctures that help with tooth decay.
- Flavonoids: Help prevent tooth decay by their antioxidant properties, which protect the teeth from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by bacteria.
- Rosmarinic acid: Exert antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for tooth decay, such as Streptococcus mutans, thereby reducing the risk of cavities.
- Terpenoids: Possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce plaque formation, prevent the progression of tooth decay, and alleviate symptoms associated with gum disease.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wood sage used to make tinctures for tooth decay.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids that may have antimicrobial properties, which could help prevent tooth decay.
- Roots: They have been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat various health issues, including digestive problems, which may be related to oral health.
- Stems: They may contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which could help alleviate gum inflammation associated with tooth decay.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wood sage for tooth decay.
- Harvest 100g of fresh or dried aerial parts of teucrium polium on a dry morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces and fill a clean glass jar about one-quarter full with the chopped material.
- Add 500ml of 25% ethanol as a solvent to the jar and seal it tightly to ensure the contents are completely submerged.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks to allow the solvent to extract the desired compounds.
- Strain the liquid mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
2. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm tinctures helps with tooth decay because of its natural antibacterial properties, which can help combat the bacteria that contribute to cavities.
The tannins present in lemon balm also have astringent qualities, making it effective in reducing inflammation and soothing gum irritation. Additionally, lemon balm's calming effects can help reduce stress-related teeth grinding, which can also lead to tooth decay.
By incorporating herbal lemon balm tinctures into your oral care routine, you may be able to promote healthier gums and stronger teeth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with tooth decay.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the growth of bacteria that contribute to tooth decay.
- Limonene: A terpene found in lemon balm, limonene has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially helping to prevent tooth decay and alleviate associated inflammation.
- Caffeic acid: This phenolic compound has been found to exhibit antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which can help protect teeth from damage caused by free radicals and bacterial infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for tooth decay.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help combat bacteria and inflammation associated with tooth decay.
- Flowers: Contain melissic acid, which has antimicrobial properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria causing tooth decay.
- Buds: May contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of plaque, contributing to tooth decay prevention.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for tooth decay.
- Harvest melissa officinalis leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom for maximum potency and flavor.
- Combine 1 part melissa officinalis plant material with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow for infusion.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove plant material.
- Discard the plant material and label the tincture with the date and ingredients for future reference and use.
3. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with tooth decay because of its potent antibacterial properties, which target the underlying causes of dental problems.
The tannins in pot marigold have been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria that contribute to tooth decay, such as Streptococcus mutans. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory compounds in pot marigold can help reduce swelling and pain associated with toothaches, promoting a healthy oral environment.
By using pot marigold tinctures regularly, individuals may experience improved oral health and reduced risk of tooth decay.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with tooth decay.
- Carotenoids: These pigments, specifically beta-carotene, help protect teeth from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by plaque, bacteria, and poor oral hygiene.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, exhibit antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for tooth decay, including Streptococcus mutans.
- Sesquiterpenes: Sesquiterpenes, including calendulene and isocalendulene, demonstrate antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease by combating bacterial infections and inflammation in the oral cavity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for tooth decay.
- Flowers: The flowers are the primary part used due to their high content of saponins, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat tooth decay.
- Leaves: The leaves are another significant part used in tinctures, as they contain compounds like saponins, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which help reduce inflammation and fight off bacterial infections that cause tooth decay.
- Buds: The buds are sometimes used, particularly for their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to prevent tooth decay and promote oral health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for tooth decay.
- Harvest 100g of fresh calendula officinalis flowers at the peak of their bloom on a sunny day.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 2 weeks to prevent mold.
- Combine the dried flowers with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 4-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
4. Commiphora myrrha
Myrrh tinctures helps with tooth decay because of its antimicrobial properties, which allow it to target and eliminate the bacteria responsible for causing cavities.
The resinous substance found in myrrh has been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a common oral pathogen that contributes to tooth decay. Additionally, myrrh tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce gum inflammation and alleviate discomfort associated with tooth decay.
By using herbal myrrh tinctures, individuals can promote overall oral health and potentially prevent or even reverse tooth decay.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Commiphora myrrha tinctures that help with tooth decay.
- Myrrhanol: Myrrhanol is an antiseptic and antimicrobial compound that helps combat oral infections, such as those caused by bacteria, which contribute to tooth decay.
- Commiphoric acid: Commiphoric acid has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and pain associated with tooth decay, promoting healing and preventing further infection.
- Terpenes: These terpenes have antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that contribute to tooth decay, as well as reduce inflammation and promote oral health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of myrrh used to make tinctures for tooth decay.
- Buds: Buds are used to make tinctures for tooth decay due to their antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial growth in the mouth.
- Barks: Barks are used to make tinctures for tooth decay due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and protect the gums.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used to make tinctures for tooth decay due to their ability to reduce inflammation and fight against bacterial infections in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic myrrh for tooth decay.
- Harvest the resin from the plant by cutting into the bark when the sap flows freely.
- Dry the collected resin in a cool dark place for at least two weeks.
- Combine 1 part dried resin with 2 parts 80% vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it well every day for 2-6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into another clean glass container to obtain the tincture.
5. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme tinctures helps with tooth decay because of its natural antibacterial properties.
The active compound thymol in thyme has been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium responsible for tooth decay. When used as a mouthwash or added to toothpaste, thyme tincture can help combat plaque and reduce acidity, preventing the demineralization of teeth. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties can help soothe gums and reduce inflammation, promoting overall oral health.
By incorporating thyme tinctures into your oral care routine, you may experience a significant reduction in tooth decay and improved oral hygiene.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris tinctures that help with tooth decay.
- Thymol: Thymol exhibits antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans that are responsible for tooth decay.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol has been shown to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help prevent the formation of plaque and reduce the risk of tooth decay.
- Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent the progression of tooth decay.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make tinctures for tooth decay.
- Leaves: Known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat bacteria and inflammation associated with tooth decay.
- Buds: Rich in antibacterial compounds that can help reduce bacterial growth and prevent tooth decay.
- Stems: Contain bioactive compounds that may help prevent the formation of plaque and inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for tooth decay.
- Harvest thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom for maximum potency and flavor.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material thoroughly to prevent contamination and preserve its medicinal properties.
- Combine 100 grams of dried thymus vulgaris with 500 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.
6. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with tooth decay because of its potent antibacterial properties, which target the underlying causes of cavities.
The tincture's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and polyphenols, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans and other bacteria responsible for dental caries.
Additionally, Kansas coneflower has anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce inflammation in the gums and mouth tissues, further contributing to a healthy oral environment that is less prone to decay.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with tooth decay.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help prevent tooth decay by inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria that contribute to tooth decay, such as Streptococcus mutans.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Echinacea angustifolia may exhibit antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which could help reduce the formation of dental plaque and prevent tooth decay.
- Alkylamides: Some research suggests that alkylamides in Echinacea angustifolia may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce inflammation and prevent the progression of tooth decay.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for tooth decay.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia contain compounds that have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacteria causing tooth decay.
- Leaves: The leaves are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help prevent the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
- Flowers: The flowers are known to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with tooth decay.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for tooth decay.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall when the plant has finished flowering and the leaves have withered.
- Clean the roots thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris and dry them in a warm place.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and combine them with 80% vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the tincture in a cool dark place.
7. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with tooth decay because of its unique properties that promote oral health.
The tincture's potent antioxidants help to neutralize harmful bacteria that contribute to decay, while its anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling and pain associated with dental issues.
Additionally, dandelion's natural antimicrobial properties inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a common causative agent of tooth decay, ultimately reducing the risk of cavities and promoting a healthier mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with tooth decay.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in dandelion tinctures may help prevent tooth decay by inhibiting the growth of oral bacteria and reducing inflammation in the gums.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in dandelion tinctures may exhibit antimicrobial properties, helping to combat the bacteria that contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpenoid saponin found in dandelion, may help prevent tooth decay by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the production of acid by oral bacteria.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for tooth decay.
- Roots: They contain inulin, which can help reduce plaque and inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help prevent tooth decay by reducing inflammation and fighting against bacteria.
- Seeds: They contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to have antibacterial properties that can help combat tooth decay-causing bacteria.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for tooth decay.
- Harvest taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in late summer or early spring when the plant is in full bloom.
- Clean and dry the taraxacum officinale parts thoroughly using a clean towel or paper towels for 24 hours.
- Combine 50 percent taraxacum officinale roots and leaves with 50 percent 95 percent ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
- Steep the mixture in a clean dark glass jar for 2 to 6 weeks at room temperature or in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean dark glass bottle and discard the solids.
8. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with tooth decay because of its potent antibacterial properties, which effectively combat the bacteria that contribute to cavities.
The antioxidants present in chamomile also help to neutralize free radicals that can damage teeth and gums. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory effects can reduce inflammation and pain associated with tooth decay.
By incorporating herbal chamomile tinctures into your oral care routine, you may experience a reduction in tooth sensitivity and an overall improvement in dental health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with tooth decay.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an antimicrobial agent, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria that contribute to tooth decay.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the gums and mouth, a common symptom of tooth decay.
- Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to combat bacterial growth and reduce inflammation in the mouth, both of which can contribute to tooth decay.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for tooth decay.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids and essential oils, which have antimicrobial properties that help prevent tooth decay.
- Leaves: They are utilized because of their flavonoid and terpenoid content, which have been shown to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in preventing tooth decay.
- Seeds: They are used due to their high content of sesquiterpene lactones, which have been found to have antibacterial properties that help prevent tooth decay.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for tooth decay.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them immediately.
- Crush 1 part of the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Combine the powdered flowers with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking the jar daily for 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.
9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with tooth decay because it contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that has been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which is responsible for causing cavities.
Additionally, licorice root has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gums and mouth, making it an effective natural remedy against tooth decay and periodontal disease.
By promoting a healthy oral environment, licorice tinctures can help prevent tooth decay and promote overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with tooth decay.
- Licorice saponins: These saponins help with tooth decay by reducing inflammation and preventing the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria commonly associated with tooth decay.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent the formation of dental plaque and reduce the risk of tooth decay.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help to protect the teeth from oxidative stress and prevent the growth of bacteria that contribute to tooth decay.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for tooth decay.
- Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Barks: They contain compounds that help reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay.
- Leaves: They have been used in traditional medicine for their antiseptic and antibacterial properties to prevent oral infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for tooth decay.
- Harvest 1:5 to 1:10 ratio of dried root to solvent glycyrrhiza glabra root by digging up mature roots.
- Dry the harvested roots in a well-ventilated area at room temperature for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Crush 250 grams of dried root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the powdered root with 500 milliliters of 80% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture at room temperature for 2 to 6 weeks then strain and discard the solids.
10. Origanum vulgare
Wild marjoram tinctures helps with tooth decay because of its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's essential oils, including thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause dental caries, while also reducing inflammation in the gums. Additionally, wild marjoram's astringent and antiseptic properties help to soothe and calm irritated mouth tissues, promoting a healthy oral environment and reducing the likelihood of decay.
Regular use of this tincture may help to prevent tooth decay and promote overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum vulgare tinctures that help with tooth decay.
- Carvacrol: Acts as an antimicrobial agent, inhibiting the growth of bacteria that contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.
- Rosmarinic acid: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent damage to oral tissues caused by bacterial infections.
- Thymol: Displays antimicrobial activity, helping to eliminate bacteria that cause tooth decay and promoting a healthy oral microbiome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make tinctures for tooth decay.
- Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to help prevent and treat oral infections.
- Stems: Employed for their astringent properties, helping to reduce gum inflammation and prevent bacterial growth in the mouth.
- Flowers: Utilized for their antiseptic properties, which can help combat oral infections and reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for tooth decay.
- Gather 250 grams of fresh origanum vulgare leaves and flowers from a trusted source.
- Cut the origanum vulgare leaves and flowers into small pieces using sharp scissors or pruning shears.
- Combine the chopped origanum vulgare with 750 milliliters of 40% ethanol in a large glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for tooth decay?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with tooth decay is a blend of clove, tea tree, and myrrh.
Clove oil has antibacterial properties that combat tooth decay-causing bacteria. Tea tree oil contains antimicrobial compounds that reduce inflammation and fight infection. Myrrh, rich in antiseptic compounds, helps to prevent infection and promote healing.
Mix equal parts of each tincture with a carrier oil and apply topically to the affected area, or take a few drops sublingually to support oral health and combat tooth decay.
What ailments similar to tooth decay are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to tooth decay that are treated with herbal tinctures are various forms of oral mucositis, such as mouth sores and gum inflammation.
Herbal tinctures like goldenseal, echinacea, and calendula help reduce inflammation and promote healing by soothing the gums and mucous membranes.
Other conditions, such as bad breath (halitosis) and periodontal disease, can also be treated with herbal tinctures like tea tree oil and peppermint oil, which have antibacterial properties that combat plaque and gum infections.