By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Toothache
Herbal decoctions for toothache are a natural remedy made by steeping herbs in hot water to create a soothing liquid extract.
These decoctions can help alleviate toothache pain by reducing inflammation, killing bacteria, and providing anti-inflammatory properties that ease discomfort. Examples of herbal decoctions that help with toothache include chamomile, lavender, and peppermint, which can be used as a mouthwash or gargle to provide relief from toothaches.
By using these natural remedies, people can reduce their reliance on over-the-counter painkillers and live healthier lives with minimal disruptions to daily routines.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for toothache, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Matricaria chamomilla
- 3. Gaultheria procumbens
- 4. Cymbopogon citratus
- 5. Eucalyptus globulus
- 6. Syzygium aromaticum
- 7. Zingiber officinale
- 8. Camellia sinensis
- 9. Melissa officinalis
- 10. Trachyspermum ammi
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for toothache?
- What ailments similar to toothache are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with toothache because its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the gums.
The decoction's ability to soothe the affected area also reduces sensitivity, making it a natural remedy for toothaches caused by inflammation or infection.
Additionally, the antiseptic properties of pot marigold can help to prevent further infection and promote healing, making it a gentle yet effective solution for alleviating toothache discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with toothache.
- Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce pain and swelling in the gums and teeth associated with toothache.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat the bacterial infections that often cause toothache and reduce inflammation in the affected area.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the risk of infection and alleviate pain associated with toothache.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for toothache.
- Leaves: The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of the leaves help reduce pain and inflammation associated with toothache.
- Flowers: The analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of the flowers help to numb the pain and reduce swelling in the gums.
- Roots: The roots contain compounds that have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat infection and reduce pain in the gums and teeth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for toothache.
- Harvest 10-15 flowers of calendula officinalis at peak bloom on a dry sunny day.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer in a warm dark place for 1-2 weeks.
- Combine 1 tablespoon of dried flowers with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean cup.
2. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile decoctions helps with toothache because of its natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The apigenin present in chamomile binds to GABA receptors in the mouth, reducing sensitivity and pain associated with toothaches. Additionally, chamomile's antimicrobial properties help combat infection-causing bacteria, promoting a healthy oral environment.
By soothing swollen gums and reducing inflammation, chamomile decoctions provide quick relief from toothache discomfort, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating dental pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with toothache.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid compound with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which helps to reduce pain and swelling associated with toothache.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which helps to combat infection and reduce inflammation in the affected tooth or gum.
- Chamazulene: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which helps to calm irritated gums and reduce pain associated with toothache.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for toothache.
- Flowers: They are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with toothaches.
- Seeds: Matricaria chamomilla seeds contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, making them useful for toothache relief.
- Leaves: The leaves of Matricaria chamomilla contain flavonoids and other compounds with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe toothache pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for toothache.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers for every 8 ounces of water.
- Combine the measured flowers with 8 ounces of boiling water in a glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flowers to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the flowers.
- Drink the decoction immediately to reap the potential benefits of matricaria chamomilla.
3. Gaultheria procumbens
Wintergreen decoctions helps with toothache because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The mucilage in wintergreen leaves binds to the gums, creating a protective barrier that reduces swelling and pain around the affected area. Additionally, the decoction's antimicrobial properties help combat bacteria and viruses that may be causing the toothache.
As the decoction is absorbed into the bloodstream, its numbing effects can provide temporary relief from toothaches caused by tooth decay, gum disease, or dental injuries.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gaultheria procumbens decoctions that help with toothache.
- Isoquercetin: This flavonoid glycoside has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce pain and swelling associated with toothache.
- Gaultherin: This sesquiterpene lactone has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the pain-relieving effects of Gaultheria procumbens decoctions for toothache.
- Ascorbic acid: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, ascorbic acid helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain caused by toothache.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make decoctions for toothache.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of salicylic acid, which is a natural pain reliever.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing toothache pain.
- Stems: The stems contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and ease pain, making them a useful addition to toothache decoctions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for toothache.
- Gather fresh gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems, using 2-4 ounces of the plant material for a standard decoction.
- Combine the gathered gaultheria procumbens with 2 cups of water in a saucepan, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 10-15 minutes, allowing the active compounds to release.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids, discarding the solids and retaining the liquid.
- Allow the decoction to cool before using it, which may take 30-60 minutes depending on the initial temperature and desired use.
4. Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass decoctions helps with toothache because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
When lemongrass is brewed into a tea, it releases compounds that can penetrate deep into the gum tissue to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. The decoction's antibacterial properties also help to combat the bacteria responsible for causing tooth infections, which can be a common cause of toothache.
By reducing inflammation and killing bacteria, lemongrass decoctions provide effective relief from toothache symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus decoctions that help with toothache.
- Citrals: Citrals in Cymbopogon citratus decoctions help with toothache by exhibiting analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce pain and swelling in the mouth.
- Geraniol: Geraniol present in Cymbopogon citratus decoctions helps with toothache by displaying its analgesic and antibacterial properties, which reduce pain and prevent infection in the tooth and surrounding area.
- Limonene: Limonene in Cymbopogon citratus decoctions helps with toothache by showing its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which provide relief from pain, reduce swelling, and prevent infection in the tooth and mouth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make decoctions for toothache.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Cymbopogon citratus due to their high oil content and strong antiseptic properties.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are often used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relieve toothache pain.
- Stems: Stems are sometimes used for their antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria causing toothache.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for toothache.
- Harvest 30g of fresh cymbopogon citratus leaves from a clean and well-maintained garden area.
- Rinse the harvested leaves with distilled water to remove dirt and impurities completely.
- Combine the cleaned leaves with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or until the leaves have lost their potency.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
5. Eucalyptus globulus
Tasmanian blue gum decoctions helps with toothache because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as eucalyptol and camphor, work together to reduce swelling and numb the pain associated with toothaches. When used as a mouthwash or gargle, the decoction helps to soothe and calm the affected area, providing instant relief from toothache discomfort.
Additionally, the decoction's antibacterial properties help to combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the toothache.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus decoctions that help with toothache.
- Cineole: This terpene has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to numb the pain and reduce swelling in the gums and tooth affected by toothache.
- Catechin: A type of phenolic compound, catechin has antibacterial properties, which can help prevent the spread of infection in the tooth and gums, reducing the severity of toothache.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the gums and tooth, providing relief from toothache pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make decoctions for toothache.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a natural analgesic and antibacterial compound that helps alleviate toothache pain.
- Barks: Barks are used due to their high tannin content, which has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that help reduce swelling and pain in the gums and teeth.
- Stems: Stems are used due to their ability to release volatile oils, including eucalyptol, when steamed or boiled, making them a useful ingredient for toothache decoctions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for toothache.
- Harvest 20 grams of fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves or 10 grams of dried leaves.
- Chop the harvested leaves into small pieces to release their oils and flavors quickly.
- Combine the chopped leaves with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes or until the liquid reduces by half slowly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh filter to remove the solids completely.
6. Syzygium aromaticum
Cloves decoctions helps with toothache because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The essential oil extracted from cloves contains eugenol, a compound that numbs the pain and reduces swelling in the affected area. When used as a decoction, it helps to reduce the sensitivity and discomfort associated with a toothache, providing temporary relief from the ache.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate toothaches, making it a popular alternative to conventional painkillers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Syzygium aromaticum decoctions that help with toothache.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This terpene has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with toothache.
- Eugenol: As a phenolic compound, eugenol has potent analgesic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help numb the pain, prevent infection, and reduce inflammation of the tooth and surrounding tissues.
- Linalool: This terpene has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with toothache.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of cloves used to make decoctions for toothache.
- Buds: They are used to make decoctions for toothache due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They are used to make decoctions for toothache due to their antimicrobial properties that help reduce infection and inflammation.
- Seeds: They are used to make decoctions for toothache due to their analgesic properties that help alleviate pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cloves for toothache.
- Weigh out 10-20 grams of syzygium aromaticum bark and grind it into fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the ground syzygium aromaticum powder with 500 milliliters of cold water in a heat-resistant container.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 30-40 minutes or until it reaches a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to a low flame and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container and discard the solids.
7. Zingiber officinale
Ginger decoctions helps with toothache because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and ease pain.
The decoction's antimicrobial agents can also combat the bacteria that may be causing the infection, thereby promoting healing and relieving discomfort. Additionally, ginger's warming properties can help to relax the muscles around the affected area, providing quick and effective relief from toothache.
As a result, herbal ginger decoctions have been used for centuries as a natural remedy for soothing toothaches.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with toothache.
- Gingerols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling in the gums and teeth, providing relief from toothache.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects that help alleviate toothache pain and discomfort.
- Volatile oils: These oils have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat bacterial infections and inflammation in the teeth and gums, thereby reducing toothache pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for toothache.
- Roots: Although similar to rhizomes, roots are also used for their medicinal properties, particularly for their ability to reduce inflammation and ease pain.
- Barks: The barks of Zingiber officinale are used to make decoctions due to their antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent infection and promote healing in the affected tooth area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for toothache.
- Harvest 50-100 grams of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes for optimal flavor and aroma.
- Wash the harvested rhizomes thoroughly with cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop the washed rhizomes into small pieces to increase surface area for decoction.
- Boil 1 liter of water in a saucepan and add the chopped rhizomes for 30 minutes of decoction.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the solid rhizome particles.
8. Camellia sinensis
Tea decoctions helps with toothache because they have natural antibacterial properties that reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
The anti-inflammatory compounds in herbs such as sage, chamomile, and calendula help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. Additionally, some herbal teas like peppermint and eucalyptus contain analgesic compounds that numb the pain and provide relief from toothache symptoms.
Drinking a warm cup of herbal tea decoction can bring quick relief and comfort to individuals suffering from toothaches.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis decoctions that help with toothache.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a type of flavonoid, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with toothaches.
- Catechins: Catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), possess potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities that help combat the underlying infection causing toothache.
- Theaflavins: Theaflavins, a type of phenolic compound, exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce bacterial growth and alleviate pain in toothaches.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make decoctions for toothache.
- Roots: Known for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate toothache pain.
- Barks: Contain compounds that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, useful in treating tooth infections and reducing pain.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them a popular ingredient in traditional toothache remedies.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for toothache.
- Measure out 2 teaspoons of camellia sinensis leaves per 8 ounces of water to create a standard decoction.
- Combine the measured leaves with water in a saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the leaves.
- Allow the decoction to cool before serving or storing it in a sealed container.
9. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm decoctions helps with toothache because it has a natural analgesic property that soothes the pain and reduces inflammation.
The antibacterial properties of lemon balm also help to combat infection, which is often the root cause of toothaches. Additionally, lemon balm's antispasmodic properties can ease muscle tension in the jaw and face, providing further relief from discomfort.
By drinking a warm lemon balm decoction several times a day, individuals can experience rapid pain relief and reduced sensitivity.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis decoctions that help with toothache.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and ease pain associated with toothaches.
- Luteolin: As a flavonoid, luteolin has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate toothache pain and reduce inflammation in the affected area.
- Geranial: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections that may be causing the toothache, and its analgesic properties can help reduce pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for toothache.
- Leaves: They contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help alleviate toothache pain.
- Roots: They have been traditionally used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties to provide relief from toothache pain.
- Stems: Although less commonly mentioned, stems from Melissa officinalis may also be used in decoctions to help soothe toothache pain due to their potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for toothache.
- Harvest 30-40 grams of fresh melissa officinalis leaves and flowers from the plant.
- Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 1 liter of boiling water in a large pot.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
10. Trachyspermum ammi
Ajwain decoctions helps with toothache because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in ajwain, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to reduce pain and swelling in the mouth, providing relief from toothache symptoms. Additionally, the antibacterial properties of ajwain decoctions help combat the underlying infection causing the toothache, promoting healing and reducing the risk of further complications.
As a result, ajwain decoctions offer a natural and effective remedy for alleviating toothache discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trachyspermum ammi decoctions that help with toothache.
- Thymol: Thymol helps with toothache by its antimicrobial and analgesic properties, which reduce inflammation and kill bacteria causing the pain.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol helps with toothache by its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce pain and swelling in the affected area.
- Anethole: Anethole helps with toothache by its anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties, which numb the pain and reduce inflammation in the teeth and gums.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ajwain used to make decoctions for toothache.
- Seeds: They are used due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve toothache pain.
- Leaves: They are used because of their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and infection in the tooth or gums.
- Buds: They are used due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate toothache pain and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ajwain for toothache.
- Measure 10-20 grams of dried trachyspermum ammi seeds and add them to a clean glass container.
- Combine 1 liter of water with the measured trachyspermum ammi in the container.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 5-7 minutes to allow the seeds to infuse.
- Remove the container from the heat source and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for toothache?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with toothache is a blend of peppermint, eucalyptus, and ginger.
Peppermint decoction reduces inflammation and provides a cooling sensation, while eucalyptus helps to open up airways and ease pain. Ginger decoction has anti-inflammatory properties that combat infection and pain. Combine equal parts of peppermint and eucalyptus decoctions with a smaller amount of ginger decoction.
This combination can be taken orally or applied to the affected tooth and gum area to alleviate toothache symptoms.
What ailments similar to toothache are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to toothache/decoctions.html">toothache/decoctions.html">toothache that are treated with herbal decoctions are various forms of inflammation and pain.
For instance, ginger decoction is used to alleviate menstrual cramps, arthritis, and gout, while turmeric decoction helps in treating inflammatory conditions such as colitis and wounds. Similarly, chamomile and calendula decoctions are employed to soothe skin irritations and digestive issues.
These herbal remedies often provide relief from discomfort and pain, just like a toothache.