Ayurveda, India’s traditional medical system, provides a holistic approach to health and wellness, including oral care. “Neem”, officially known as Azadirachta indica, is a popular Ayurvedic herb for improving dental health and whitening teeth. Neem has been used for millennia in Ayurvedic medicine for its antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Here’s how using Neem in your oral care routine can help you get whiter teeth:
1. Natural teeth whitening
“Neem contains compounds such as nimbolide, azadirachtin and nimbidine, which have natural astringent properties that help remove stains and plaque from teeth, leading to a brighter smile,” she said. Dr. Ganesh Chaudhary, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, PHC, Darbhanga, Bihar.
2. Antibacterial Action
According to Dr. Chaudhary, neem has strong antibacterial properties that can help fight the bacteria responsible for plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath. Using a Neem-based toothpaste or mouthwash can help control harmful bacteria and promote overall oral hygiene.
Also read: Teeth grinding in sleep: Effective strategies that can help you stop
3. Anti-inflammatory Effects
“Inflammation in the gums can contribute to oral health problems and tooth discoloration. Neem’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce gum inflammation, supporting gum health and contributing to a healthier oral environment,” said Dr. Chaudhary.
4. Prevention of Dental Issues
“Regular use of Neem in oral care can help prevent common dental problems such as tooth decay, gingivitis and periodontal disease, which can affect the appearance of teeth. By maintaining oral health, Neem can indirectly contribute to whiter teeth,” said Dr Chaudhary.
5. Fresh Breath
Neem’s antibacterial properties not only help fight odor-causing bacteria, but also leave the mouth fresh and clean. This can contribute to fresher breath and a more pleasant oral environment.
Ways to incorporate Neem into your oral care routine
Neem toothpaste
“Look for toothpaste that contains Neem extract or Neem oil as one of the main ingredients. Brushing your teeth with Neem toothpaste can help promote oral health and whiten teeth naturally,” said Dr Chaudhary.
Also read: Myth Buster: Popular teeth whitening myths debunked by dentists
Neem mouthwash
Rinse your mouth with Neem-based mouthwash after brushing to further clean the mouth, kill bacteria and freshen breath.
Neem Chewing Sticks (Miswak)
Chewing Neem sticks or Miswak or Siwak, is a traditional practice in many cultures for oral hygiene. The natural fibers in Neem sticks help clean teeth, while Neem’s antibacterial properties promote oral health.
Neem Oil Tralling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves pouring oil around the mouth to improve oral health. Using Neem oil for oil pulling can help whiten teeth, reduce plaque and support gum health.
While Neem is generally safe for oral use, some people may experience allergic reactions or sensitivity to Neem products. It is always a good idea to perform a patch test before using Neem products extensively.
Trying neem can be an effective and natural way to achieve whiter teeth while promoting overall oral health. However, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing, flossing and dental checkups in conjunction with using Neem products for optimal results.
