Essential Oils for Gum Care

Many toothpastes and mouthwashes on the market contain essential oils such as myrrh, eucalyptus, peppermint, and thyme, which studies have shown help fight bacteria. The study The effect of a mouthrinse containing essential oils on dental plaque and gingivitis concluded "When used as an adjunct to unsupervised oral hygiene, the existing evidence supports that essential oil provides an additional benefit with regard to plaque and gingivitis reduction compared to placebo or control."

If you want to make your own essential oil mouth rinse, Aromatherapy for Dummies gives this recipe: Combine 20 drops tea tree oil, 8 drops myrrh essential oil, and one ounce echinacea tincture. To use, shake well and put 1/4 teaspoon in 1/8 cup water. Swish in your mouth for at least one minute.

For bleeding gums, the Essential Oils Desk Reference recommends cinnamon, peppermint, mountain savory, or myrrh.

As another option for dental care, Young Living offers toothpaste and mouthwash containing the Thieves essential oil blend, which has been university tested and found to be highly effective against bacteria. For more about this blend, see my Thieves essential oil post or go to Young Living (click Product Line, then click Personal Care, and look under Oral Hygiene).