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Gums, or gingivae, are supporting fibrous tissues found at the base of the teeth. If these tissues are infected with bacteria, it is called gum infection. The symptoms you will have are swollen and reddened gums, bad breath, bleeding or tender gums, and toothache. The gums may start to recede. The teeth may become loose and shifting. If left untreated, gum abscess can form.

There is increased risk of gum infection with smoking, alcohol abuse, nutritional deficiency, tobacco use, diabetes, and use of certain medications, such as oral contraceptives, steroids, and anticancer drugs. You can try some simple remedies for the gum infection, such as rinsing or gargling of the mouth with salt water, or applying clove oil to the affected area. If the problem persists, see your dentist for further treatment, and also discuss the following herbal remedies with the dentist.

Effective Herbal Remedies for Gum Infection

Remember that these herbal remedies can have side effects and they can interact with other medications you may be taking. So, take these under the supervision of your dentist.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera not only helps deal with the infection by fighting against the bacteria, but also numbs the tissues and decreases the associated pain. By increasing the moisture in your mouth, it also decreases bad breath. Aloe vera extract contains polysaccharides and glycoproteins. Polysaccharides stimulate the repair and growth of tissues.

Glycoproteins decrease the inflammation and pain. Both stimulate the immune system, so that you can fight against infection better. You can use aloe vera in two ways: you could apply aloe vera gel on the infected portion of gum tissue, and massage it in gently and smoothly; or you could drink aloe vera juice.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4-ol, which has antibacterial activity. The oil is obtained from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia. Use a toothpaste containing tea tree oil. Alternatively, add a drop of the oil to the toothpaste every time you brush. The oil should not be swallowed because it is toxic.

So, gargle and swish your mouth thoroughly immediately after brushing. Some people are allergic to it. So, stop using it if you experience irritation, redness, itching, and blistering of gums. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use the oil.

Chamomile Tea

Lukewarm chamomile tea can be used as mouthwash or sipped. It reduces inflammation and accelerates healing. You can prepare the tea by adding 2-3 spoons of the flowerheads of chamomile (Matricaria recutita) to 1 cup of boiling water, and letting it steep for about 2 minutes.

You can drink the tea 2-3 times a day in between meals. People with asthma should not use it. Pregnant women are best advised to avoid it, as it can cause miscarriage. It could cause drowsiness.

Calendula

Calendula helps in revitalizing gum tissue. Add calendula tincture to the toothpaste before brushing. You can also gently massage the gums with it.

The tincture is prepared from the flowers of Calendula officinalis. It is rich in the antioxidants called flavonoids. Some people may have allergic reactions to it. Pregnant women should not use it.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil has high content of cineole, which is an antiseptic or antibacterial chemical. Rub a few leaves of the eucalyptus plant (Eucalyptus globulus) on the affected portion of the gums.

You could use a toothpaste or mouthwash containing eucalyptus. Do not swallow eucalyptus oil because it is toxic. Swish your mouth thoroughly with water after using it.