Keep your teeth strong naturally, kill bacteria with neem, triphala and miswak, here's how

Dental health benefits of neem, tripahala, miswak: Experts say that all these three ingredients showed antibacterial effects, and when triphala and neem were combined with chlorhexidine, they worked even better (Images: Canva)

In a world of electric toothbrushes and minty gels, some ancient herbs are making their way back into the bathrooms. Herbs like neem, triphala, and miswak have been part of Indian oral care traditions for generations. They were used long before toothpaste tubes became household staples; chewed as twigs, brewed into rinses, or ground into powders.

While these herbs may seem old-fashioned, their benefits are actually relevant to modern needs. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), three ingredients —triphala, neem (Azadirachta indica), and chlorhexidine, have been used as root canal irrigants to help clean the infected tooth. These substances were tested for their ability to kill harmful bacteria, especially Enterococcus faecalis, which is often found in failed root canal treatments.

The study found that all three ingredients showed antibacterial effects, and when triphala and neem were combined with chlorhexidine, they worked even better. This suggests that these natural and chemical agents can be helpful in making root canal treatments more effective by reducing the risk of infection.

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Highlighting the power of natural ingredients and herbs in oral care, Dr Hariprasad V.R, Senior Research Scientist, Research and Development, Himalaya Wellness Company, tells Moneycontrol, “Neem, for example, is known for its ability to fight bacteria and soothe inflamed gums. Triphala, a blend of three fruits, gently detoxifies the mouth and strengthens gum tissue. Miswak, often called a 'natural toothbrush', contains minerals and antibacterial compounds that help maintain oral hygiene and fresh breath.” Together, they offer a well-rounded, natural approach to dental care.

What sets these herbs apart isn’t just their cleansing power, but the way they support oral and systemic health. “Neem has antibacterial properties that reduce gum inflammation and plaque. Triphala, on the other hand, is packed with antioxidants. It helps to reduce oxidative stress and promote healing. Miswak, traditionally used as a chewing stick, is known to stimulate saliva, production, an important, but often overlooked, aspect of dental health,” says Dr Hariprasad.

Many Ayurvedic practitioners believe that healthy gums and teeth reflect balance in the entire body. “Using herbs like neem and triple can freshen your breath, make your gums strong, and also support long-term will being,” he adds.

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Best Indian herbs for oral health

You don’t need to change your complete routine to benefit from these herbs for those interested in trying them. Dr Hari Prasad shares a few tips:

• Neem can be found in many herbal toothpastes, or used in powdered form as a gentle mouth rinse.
• Triphala powder can be mixed with warm water for an oral detox rinse.
• Miswak is available as both a chewable twig and in extract form in many natural oral care products.

Beyond personal health, there’s also a growing appreciation for the environmental benefits of natural oral care. “Products based on neem, triphala, and miswak are often plant-based, biodegradable, and free from synthetic additives. For those who are conscious of sustainability, this makes them a gentle choice, not just for the mouth, but for the planet,” Dr Hariprasad adds.

FAQs on Home Remedies for Toothache

1. What herbs are effective for toothache relief?

Neem, triphala, and miswak are effective for toothache relief due to their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties.

2. How can neem help with toothache?

Neem has antibacterial properties that reduce gum inflammation and plaque, making it effective for toothache relief.

3. How is triphala used for oral care?

Triphala can be mixed with warm water to create an oral detox rinse that strengthens gum tissue and reduces oxidative stress.

4. What are the benefits of miswak for toothache?

Miswak contains minerals and antibacterial compounds that help maintain oral hygiene, stimulate saliva production, and offer toothache relief.

5. Can these herbs be integrated into my existing oral care routine?

Yes, neem, triphala, and miswak can complement your existing oral care routine through herbal toothpastes, powders, and natural oral care products.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.