Beauty

The 5 Herbs to Whiten Teeth and Freshen Your Breath

These herbs are incredibly gentle and beneficial for oral health and dental care routines.

3 September, 2024

Turmeric

Contrary to popular belief, turmeric, with its distinctive yellow powder, does not stain teeth. In fact, turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can help reduce plaque and gum inflammation. Simply mix a small amount of turmeric powder with water or coconut oil to form a paste, and apply it to your teeth with a toothbrush. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

Beyond teeth whitening, turmeric powder is also effective in treating various oral health issues such as tooth decay and bad breath, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help eliminate plaque.

Basil

Basil has teeth-whitening properties and helps inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause plaque and tooth decay. Simply dry basil leaves and grind them into a fine powder, then use this powder to brush your teeth a few times a week.

Neem Leaves

Neem leaves prevent plaque formation and tooth decay. A study published in the Indian Journal of Dental Research provides further evidence of Neem’s effectiveness in maintaining oral health and whitening teeth.

Usage: Chew fresh Neem leaves or use a Neem-based toothpaste.

Chewing fresh Neem leaves or using a Neem-based toothpaste can help brighten your smile.

Rosemary

Rosemary tea is rich in antioxidants that combat harmful free radicals that contribute to chronic diseases. It contains rosmarinic acid, a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Additionally, rosemary leaves contain various plant compounds, such as Carnosol, and natural oils that can help remove stains and promote oral health. Simply grind fresh rosemary leaves and apply them directly to your teeth. Alternatively, you can dry and grind rosemary leaves into a powder and use it as a toothpaste.

Cloves

Cloves contain eugenol, a compound found in clove oil, which is effective against bacteria that cause plaque and bad breath. Grind cloves into a powder and mix it with a small amount of olive oil to form a paste. Use this paste as a toothpaste, or simply chew on a clove bud for a few minutes.

Regular use of cloves can help maintain oral hygiene and contribute to whiter teeth over time.

Frequently asked questions

The 5 herbs are: Basil, Mint, Cilantro, Turmeric, and Sage.

Each of these herbs has properties that contribute to oral health. For example, basil and mint are rich in antioxidants and have a natural whitening effect on teeth. Cilantro is known for its ability to remove toxins and heavy metals from the body, which can contribute to a cleaner mouth and fresher breath. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, helping to maintain healthy gums and fight bad breath. Sage is an ancient remedy for oral health, as it reduces bacteria in the mouth and helps fight plaque.

Yes, there are a few methods you can try. For basil and mint, you can chew on fresh leaves directly after a meal to freshen your breath and gradually whiten your teeth. You can also make a mouthwash by infusing water with these herbs. For cilantro, try adding more of it to your meals, especially when consuming heavy metal-rich foods like seafood. Turmeric can be consumed in various ways, such as adding it to your tea, smoothies, or even using it as a natural teeth-whitening paste when mixed with a little baking soda. For sage, you can make a sage mouthwash by boiling sage leaves and letting the mixture cool, or simply chew on a fresh sage leaf.

While these herbs are natural and generally safe, it’s always a good idea to introduce them gradually and pay attention to your body’s response. Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to certain herbs, so it’s best to start with a small amount and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. Additionally, while these herbs can contribute to oral health, they should not replace regular dental hygiene practices like brushing and flossing.