14/06/2026
Oral health is a key factor in our general health and wellbeing that moves beyond just the issue of fillings and gum disease. Oral health is linked to a range of other inflammatory conditions in the body, including heart disease.
We know about the gut microbiome but the oral microbiome is as important and nuanced; when in balance we are more likely to have healthy teeth, gums and oral tissues in general. Unfortunately the contemporary western diet of highly processed food, refined sugars and complex carbohydrates all contribute to a disruption in this delicate balance and result in signs of 'dis-ease' in this area.
Before a reliance on dentists, herbal medicine has long been used to help maintain healthy oral tissues, manage acute infections and support the body's natural healing processes. Many herbs such as licorice, clove, calendula and sage contain bioactive plant compounds that confer beneficial actions, such as reducing inflammation, antimicrobial qualities, tissue repair and regeneration, astringent qualities to tone tissues, soothing irritated mucosa and natural breath-freshening benefits.
So consider switching over from harsh traditional mouthwashes which destroy the oral microbiome and consider a herbal mouthwash instead!