Periodontitis is infection and irritation of your teeth's support structures, including certain ligaments and bones. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that periodontitis is a leading cause of tooth loss among American adults, and that this condition is rare in childhood and then increases in frequency among adolescents. Certain herbs, especially antiseptic herbs, may be a helpful adjunct treatment for periodontitis, but you should always clear the use of herbs with your doctor before using them for this health purpose.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis, a condition usually caused by poor oral hygiene, notes MayoClinic.com, may attack the soft tissues and bones that hold your teeth in place. In most cases, periodontitis is often preventable by brushing your teeth and flossing on a daily basis. Periodontitis may boost your risk for heart disease and other health complications. Some of the most commonly experienced signs and symptoms associated with this condition include loose teeth, swollen gums, bad breath and a foul taste in your mouth.
Appropriate Herbs
There are many appropriate herbs for treating periodontitis, including herbs that possess antiseptic action, which is the ability to stop the growth and spread of microbes. According to Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician, herbalist and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," examples of antiseptic herbs that might be helpful in treating periodontitis include calendula, echinacea, myrrh, goldenseal and thyme. Other helpful remedies may include aloe vera, hawthorn, rose hips and tea tree oil. Some herbs traditionally used for this health purpose have not been extensively studied in a laboratory.
A Helpful Antiseptic
Myrrh is a helpful antiseptic herb in the treatment of periodontitis. Myrrh, states Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," helps keep your periodontitis-related inflammation in check and enhances your immune function. Myrrh may be applied directly to your affected areas or it may be consumed in tea form. Myrrh purportedly stimulates and tones your mucus tissue. The gum from the stems of the myrrh tree is used medicinally. Ask your dentist if myrrh is suitable for your condition.
Disclaimer
Several serious health complications are associated with periodontitis, including infection of your mandible and maxilla, or jaw bones; tooth loss or loosening; and abscess of the soft tissue in the affected area. Herbal remedies are a complementary alternative therapy that may best be used in combination with other, more conventional therapeutic measures. Before using herbs in treating this condition, discuss the possible benefits, risks and limitations associated with this natural treatment method.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Periodontitis
- MayoClinic.com: Periodontitis
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
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