Herbal Treatment For Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is one of the most prevalent infectious conditions among Americans. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research states that periodontal diseases range from mild gum inflammation to serious conditions that cause significant damage to the structures that support your teeth. In some cases, periodontal disease can lead to lost teeth. Herbal treatments may be used for periodontal disease, but always check with your dentist or dental health specialist to see what treatments are best for you.

Periodontal Disease

According to MedlinePlus, gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease. A more serious type of periodontal disease is periodontitis--a condition in which your gums pull away from your teeth and create pockets where infections can arise. There are several key risk factors for periodontal disease, including smoking, hormonal changes in females, genetics, certain medications and certain illnesses, including diabetes, AIDS and cancer. Bad breath, swollen gums, painful chewing and loose teeth are all indicative of periodontal disease.

Herbal Treatments

There are many herbal and non-herbal dietary supplements that may be helpful in resolving your periodontal disease. Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that the following herbs are beneficial in treating periodontal disease: aloe vera gel, chamomile and calendula teas, clove oil, echinacea, hawthorn berries, myrrh gum, rose hips, goldenseal, sage and thyme. Tea tree oil, an herbal treatment known for its many uses, may also be helpful in preventing and treating periodontal disease when it is rubbed on your gums.

An Effective Herb

Balch states that sage is an effective herbal treatment for periodontal disease. Sage, well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, is beneficial for disorders involving your mouth and throat, although this herb may also stimulate your central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract, reduce perspiration and salivation and help treat hot flashes. The leaves of the sage plant are used in herbal remedies. To help treat your periodontal disease, Balch suggests boiling 2 tbsp. of crushed sage leaves in 1 cup of water and allowing it to steep for 20 minutes before straining and then rinsing your mouth.

Considerations

Herbal treatments are usually safe and effective, but it is important to know what herbs you should avoid. Herbal treatments may not be appropriate for you if you have certain allergies, are pregnant or breast-feeding or have certain medical conditions. Meet with your doctor to discuss the procedures and risks associated with herbal treatments as well as alternative treatment methods that may yield equally beneficial health results. Most herbal treatments for periodontal disease are applied to your gums and are not otherwise taken internally.