The dental hygiene products used by us today may contain toxins that have been linked to cancer, blindness and even death. On reading the label of any major brand of toothpaste or mouthwash you will observe that they are loaded with dangerous toxins and chemicals such as sodium fluoride, triclosan, sodium lauryl sulfate, and hydrated silica.
There are various remedies which can be used for keeping our mouth and teeth healthy without the use of these chemicals.
- Chewing on fresh stem of a Neem tree is the most popular way to combat tooth decay and keep your oral health intact. The stems should be small, soft and without the leaves. In many parts of the world, Miswaak, a twig from Salvadora Persica (Arak/Peelu tree) is also popular as a herbal chewing stick due to its high anti-microbial property.
- Take a pinch of rock salt or common salt and mix it with one teaspoonful of mustard oil. Apply this paste on the gums and massage gently. This is a very good treatment for pyorrhoea, swollen gums, toothache and bleeding gums. It strengthens the gums and kills the germs.
- Drinking half a glass of water mixed with two teaspoons of fresh lemon juice may be taken twice a day. It is good for strengthening both gums and teeth.
- Grind dried bay leaves and use the powder after every 3 days to remove pyorrhoea.
- Drink a glass of water mixed with a tablespoon of honey to prevent and cure dental problems. It is very beneficial for the teeth. You can even replace your morning tea with this drink.
- Chewing a clove after meals acts as a mouth freshener and also maintains strong teeth and gums. Keep the clove in the mouth and chew slowly.
- Take a cup of water (warm water in winter) and mix a pinch of common salt in it. Gargle with water 3-4 times. Also fill your mouth with this water and circulate it around the teeth. This is good for the teeth, gums and throat. It should be done everyday before going to bed.
