5 natural herbs that help whiten teeth – Times of India

Many people want a brighter smile through pricey treatments and chemical-laden products, and to be fair we all want a beautiful white and bright smile. To our recuse, nature provides an abundance of effective alternatives. Certain plants have been used for generations not only for their medicinal properties but also to improve oral hygiene and whiten teeth.Here are 5 of those natural herbs that can help you obtain a whiter, healthier smile.

Turmeric

Turmeric, known for its bright yellow colour and powerful medicinal properties, is a surprising friend in teeth whitening. This spice contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. According to a study published in the Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice, turmeric can help reduce plaque and gingivitis, making it a great addition to your oral care routine. Just keep in mind not to use it too generously.
How to use:
Mix a small amount of turmeric powder with water or coconut oil to form a paste.
Apply the paste to your teeth using a toothbrush.
Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Basil

Holy basil, or Tulsi, is well-known in Ayurvedic medicine for its numerous health benefits. When it comes to dental care, holy basil stands out for its teeth-whitening properties. A study in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry found that holy basil can inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause plaque and cavities.
How to use:
Dry some basil leaves in the sun and grind them into a fine powder.
Use the powder to brush your teeth a few times a week.
Regular use of basil powder can help maintain oral hygiene and gradually whiten teeth.

Neem

Neem, often called the “village pharmacy,” has been used for centuries in traditional Indian medicine. Neem’s antibacterial properties make it effective in preventing plaque formation and tooth decay. Research published in the Indian Journal of Dental Research supports neem’s efficacy in maintaining oral health and whitening teeth.
How to use
Chew on fresh neem leaves or use neem sticks as a natural toothbrush.
Alternatively, you can find neem-based toothpaste available in health stores.
Adding neem into your oral care routine can help keep your teeth clean and white naturally.

Sage

Sage is a versatile herb known for its healing properties. It contains natural oils and compounds that can help remove stains from teeth. A study in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine highlighted sage’s antibacterial properties, which help in maintaining oral hygiene and potentially whitening teeth.
How to use
Crush fresh sage leaves and rub them directly onto your teeth.
You can also dry sage leaves, grind them into a powder, and use it as a toothpaste.
Using sage regularly can contribute to a cleaner, whiter smile.

Clove

Clove is a well-known spice in dental care for its antiseptic properties, primarily due to eugenol, a compound found in clove oil. A study in the Journal of Dentistry found that clove oil is effective against the bacteria that cause dental plaque and bad breath.
How to use
Crush cloves into a powder and mix with a bit of olive oil to create a paste.
Brush your teeth with this paste or simply chew on a clove for a few minutes.
Regular use of clove can help in maintaining oral hygiene and may contribute to whitening your teeth over time.