Periodontal Disease Herbal Remedies

Periodontal disease affects the gums and ranges from a mild inflammation, known as gingivitis, to serious tissue and bone damage, called periodontitis. Your gums may bleed, swell and feel tender, and if the infection persists, you could be at risk of heart attack and stroke. Herbs, together with brushing and flossing, may help prevent and heal this disorder. Consult your health-care provider before starting herbal therapy.

Gotu Kola and Pomegranate

Gotu kola, or Centella asiatica, is a creeping annual native to Asia and the Pacific. Pomegranate, or Punica granatum, is a deciduous fruit tree native to Asia and Europe. Indian Ayurvedic healers use these plants to treat gum diseases. Gotu kola has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, and pomegranate is a potent astringent that can stop bleeding. A study published in the October 2003 issue of the Journal of the International Academy of Periodontology tested a herbal preparation applied under the gums in the form of biodegradable chips. The test subjects were patients who had completed conventional periodontal therapy but still had residual gum disease. After six months, the treated group showed significant improvement compared to the placebo group. The treated group also had a greater reduction of IL-1-beta and IL6, cytokines involved in the inflammatory process. Gotu kola may cause drowsiness or allergic reaction. Pomegranate rind is toxic in high doses. Do not use these herbs if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Marigold

Marigold, or Calendula officinalis, a member of the Aster family, has bright yellow-orange flowers and is native to Europe. Traditional healers use the flower heads and volatile oil externally to treat wounds, burns, skin diseases, hemorrhoids and thrush, and internally to heal inflammation in the mouth and throat. Active ingredients include flavonoids, saponins, triterpenes, coumarins and polysaccharides. Dr. Linda B. White and Steven Foster recommend marigold tincture for gum disease because of its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and immunostimulant actions. Dr. James F. Balch and Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, recommend marigold flower tea to soothe and help heal damaged gum tissue. Do not use marigold extracts internally in high doses for prolonged periods. Do not use at all if you are allergic to plants in the Aster family.

Hawthorn

Hawthorn, or Crataegus spp., are small trees that produce white flowers and red berries. Traditional healers use the leaves, flowers and berries as a heart tonic and to treat heart problems, especially cardiac insufficiency and irregular rhythm. Active ingredients include procyanidins, vitexin-rhamnoside, hyperoside, ursolic acid, rutin, chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid. Dr. Linda B. White and Steven Foster recommend applying hawthorn powder as a poultice to infected gums. The procyanidins are potently anti-inflammatory and may help relieve swelling. Dr. James F. Balch and Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, state that hawthorn tea or poultice may reduce inflammation and help the immune system fight any bacterial infection. Do not combine hawthorn with other cardioactive drugs. Consult your doctor before taking hawthorn if you have heart problems or high blood pressure, or if you experience allergy or nausea.