Thirty-eight percent of adults in the United States use alternative forms of medicine to prevent or treat illness, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. This includes therapies such as acupuncture, homeopathic medicine and herbal supplements. Eucalyptus oil is a supplement sometimes used as a treatment for bleeding gums. However, its effectiveness and safety has not been thoroughly studied.
Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums are most often caused by poor plaque removal from your teeth at the gum line causing inflammation of your gums, also known as gingivitis. If plaque continues to build up on your teeth, it will harden into tartar, causing more bleeding and increasing your risk of gum disease. Bleeding gums also occur if you have a bleeding disorder, if you brush too hard or if you floss improperly. Hormonal changes during pregnancy also increase gum bleeding, as do scurvy -- a disorder caused by poor intakes of vitamin C -- and leukemia.
Eucalyptus
The leaves and oil of the eucalyptus tree are used for medicinal purposes. However, scientific research has not been conducted to provide evidence that supports these uses. Eucalyptus oil is used to treat mouth pain, inflammation of the mucous membranes in your respiratory tract, bronchitis, asthma and respiratory infections. It is also used as an expectorant to help loosen coughs. Eucalyptus oil should be diluted when taken orally. Eucalyptus oil is also found in sealers and solvents dentists use for root canals.
Considerations
Eucalyptus oil is also added to herbal mouthwashes to help treat bleeding gums. However, there is no evidence that eucalyptus oil can improve gum health or stop your gums from bleeding. As long as you dilute your eucalyptus oil, it is a safe product. But you should consult your doctor and dentist before including it as part of your diet and health plan. Eucalyptus oil is not recommended for children or pregnant women. Taking 3.5 milliliters of undiluted eucalyptus oil can be fatal.
Healthy Gums
To keep your gums healthy and prevent bleeding, you should visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning. At home, you should brush your teeth using a soft-bristled brush after each meal. Floss your teeth twice a day to help prevent plaque buildup. Your dentist may also recommend that you use a saltwater rinse instead of over-the-counter mouthwash, which contains substances that can aggravate your problems.
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