Remedies - Folk - Gingivitis

Cranberries There is a compound in cranberries that prevents microorganisms from adhering to cells in the urinary tract where they cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). These "anti-adhesion" properties that prevent bacteria from forming in the urinary tract also prevent bacteria from growing in the mouth where they form dental plaque, which is the leading cause of gum disease.

Lemon juice Add the juice of one freshly squeezed lemon to a glass of warm water. Use as a mouthwash for one minute. The lemon will kill the bacteria that cause the gingivitis, and the acid will dissolve the plaque and strengthen the gums. Two remedies in one! Do this after every brushing. The tooth enamel with receive a protective coating from the toothpaste, this protecting it from the acid of the lemon.

Neem oil Neem (Azadirachta indica) is valued in Ayurvedic medicine for its varied healing properties due to its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral capabilities. A cousin of mahogany, neem is a tropical evergreen tree native to India and Myanmar. Over 60 medicinal uses have been documented for neem so far - such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, cold sores, dandruff, athlete's foot, ulcers, ringworm, and gingivitis, to name a few. For gingivitis, gargle with a solution of 12-20 drops of neem leaf extract in two ounces of water, or use neem toothpaste. Caution: Pregnant women or those trying to conceive, should not ingest any neem product.

Sage Make a strong tea of sage and add sea salt to make a mouthwash. Pour a cup of boiling water over one tablespoon of sage leaves; cover and steep for 15 minutes; strain; add two teaspoons of sea salt. Use twice daily after brushing your teeth. Refrigerate. Both sage and sea salt have antiseptic properties that reduce inflammation and promote healing. They are also astringent, which helps tighten the gums.

Tea tree oil Add a drop of tea tree oil to your toothbrush on top of your toothpaste; brush as usual. Tea tree oil, derived from the leaves of the native Australian Melaleuca alternifolia tree, contains antiseptic compounds which help prevent gum disease. Make sure the product label says it is 100% pure tea tree oil.