Ayurveda Home Remedies For Bleeding Gums

Strong & healthy gums are like pillars for bright & strong teeth & such a shining smile can instantly win hearts. The health of your teeth directly proportional to the health of your gums. If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, you are probably suffering from a slightly mild case of gingivitis. Gum bleeding is very common and many people suffer from it. You have to give as much importance to your gums, as much as you give to your pearly white teeth. Gum disease begins with plaque, a sticky film of food particles, germs and saliva. If not removed, plaque will settle at the gum line. The germs will produce toxins that will make the gums red, tender and likely to bleed when brushing your teeth. The primary cause of gingivitis is the bacteria that coat your teeth, and if oral hygiene is poor, it forms a sticky white substance called plaque. In Ayurveda, 'bleeding from gum' is known as 'Sheetada'. It is one of the 15 kinds of gum disease (Danta Moolagata Roga). The Pitta dosha is considered as the primary causative factor for bleeding gums. When the liver is lethargic, the Pitta that is distributed throughout the body starts to travel in one direction. When this congestion of Pitta takes place in the gums, they are unable to hold blood which results in bleeding gums. In the case where there is excess mucus or extreme acidity, it may also lead to a bacterial infection that is identified as a Kapha disorder.

Causes of Bleeding Gums

The following conditions can be causes of bleeding gums

• Gingivitis (or pregnancy gingivitis)
• Vitamin deficiency (such as vitamin C and K deficiency - may lead to scurvy)
• Periodontitis
• Poor dental hygiene
• Gum disease
• Poorly fitting dentures and unbalanced bite
• Leukemia
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy and hormonal imbalance
• Dry mouth
• Tobacco use

Ayurveda Home Remedies For Bleeding Gums

1. Use of Clove Oil

Clove oil is considered to be one of the best home remedies for bleeding gums. Take a little clove oil and rub it on your gums or chew one or two cloves. You may feel a slight burning sensation, but it will reduce the inflammation to a greater extent.

2. Triphala Kadha

Triphala kadha (tea) is an effective Ayurvedic cure for bleeding gums and gingivitis. Astringent properties of Triphala is effective in arresting the bleeding. Gargle (Kaval) with triphala kadha for 3 to 4 times in a day to stop bleeding gum & cure gingivitis.

3. Yashtimadhu (Licorice)

Yashtimadhu (Licorice) helps in healing minor wounds & cleansing the mouth, improves secretions in the gastrointestinal tract and promotes salivation. Chewing on Yashtimadhu (licorice) root will help in getting a clean mouth and arresting tooth decay.

4. Use Herbal Toothpaste

According to Ayurveda, toothpaste (Dantdhavan) should be tikta(bitter), kashay(astringent) & katu in taste. Sweet toothpaste cause a thickening of the saliva and an increase in its calcium content, which can lead to tartar formation. And too much fluoride or baking soda can erode the gums. The best toothpaste is made with herbs such as neem, Triphala, cinnamon, clove, fennel, babool, and pilu. You should use herbal toothpaste for clean healthy gums & teeth.

5. Use Turmeric

Apply turmeric directly to the affected gums. Turmeric is antibacterial & has wound healing property which is important in healing swollen & bleeding gums.

6. Vitamin C For Healthy Gums

Aamla(Gooseberry) & Lemons are rich source of Vitamin C and help to reduce inflammation. Squeeze the juice of half an Aamla or lemon and add a pinch or two of rock salt. Massage this on your teeth and gums. Let it do its magic for a few minutes, then wash off by rinsing with warm water. Also take aamla & lemons internally to reduce deficiency of vitamin C.

7. Take Care Of Your Gums

Do not eat food which is hard & can injure the gums. Floss your teeth gently once a day. Use soft brush if your teeth & gums are sensitive. Brush gently using soft brush twice a day with herbal toothpaste. Avoid the use of tobacco and smoking.

8. Sitkari Pranayama

Sitkari Pranayam is extremely beneficial in fighting diseases of the tongue, mouth and throat. It is also very effective in curing dental problems like pyorrhea. Practice Sitkari Pranayama daily for healthy gums & teeth.

9. Vegetables & Fruits

Fresh and raw vegetable and fruits not only are good for overall health they are also equally important for healthy gums as well. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals and low in calories. Chewing raw vegetables help to improve blood circulation in gums, thus helping to reduce the bleeding of gums. Also, read about: 10 Common Misconceptions About Your Dental Health About the AuthorDr.Yogesh Chavan is renowned Ayurveda Physician from Nashik, India. He is also a passionate blogger with the motto to spread Ayurveda Sciences to the community. He is spreading Ayurveda & health knowledge through articles in many newspapers & his blog www.ayushmanbhavayurveda.com . Dr. Chavan is an expert in Ayurveda medicine & panchakarma treatment. His work & sound knowledge in this field has been acknowledged by many institutes.