Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, offers a holistic approach to health and wellness, including oral care. Neem, formally known as Azadirachta indica, is a popular Ayurvedic herb that improves dental health and whitens teeth. Neem has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years for its antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Using neem in your oral care routine can help whiten your teeth.
1. Natural Teeth Whitening
“Neem contains compounds such as nimbolide, azadirachtin and nimbidin that act as natural astringents to remove stains and plaque from teeth and brighten your smile,” she says. Dr. Ganesh Chaudhary, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, PHC, Darbhanga, Bihar.
2. Antibacterial properties
According to Dr. Chaudhary, neem has strong antibacterial properties that help fight bacteria that cause plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath. Using a neem-based toothpaste or mouthwash can help keep harmful bacteria in check and promote overall oral hygiene.
Also read: Teeth Grinding During Sleep: Effective Strategies to Stop Teeth Grinding
3. Anti-inflammatory properties
“Gum inflammation can lead to oral health problems and tooth discolouration. Neem’s anti-inflammatory properties reduce gum inflammation, supporting gum health and contributing to a healthier oral environment,” says Dr Chaudhary.
4. Preventing dental problems
“Regular use of neem in oral care helps in preventing common dental problems like cavities, gingivitis and periodontal disease that affect the appearance of teeth. By maintaining good oral health, neem indirectly helps in whitening teeth,” says Dr Chaudhary.
5. Fresh breath
Neem’s antibacterial properties not only fight off odor-causing bacteria, but also keep your mouth fresh and clean, resulting in fresher breath and more comfortable oral health.
How to Incorporate Neem into Your Oral Care
Neem Toothpaste
“Look for toothpaste that has neem extract or neem oil as the main ingredient. Brushing your teeth with neem toothpaste can promote oral health and whiten your teeth naturally,” says Dr Chaudhary.
Also read: Myth busting: Dental experts expose common myths about teeth whitening
Neem Mouthwash
Rinsing your mouth with a neem-based mouthwash after brushing your teeth will further clean your mouth, kill bacteria, and freshen your breath.
Neem chewing sticks (miswak)
Chewing on neem sticks, miswak or shiwak is a traditional oral hygiene practice in many cultures. The natural fibres in neem sticks help clean the teeth and the antibacterial properties of neem promote oral health.
Neem Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil in the mouth to improve oral health. Using neem oil for oil pulling can help whiten teeth, reduce plaque, and maintain gum health.
Neem is generally safe when taken orally, however some people may experience allergic reactions or sensitivity to neem products. We recommend that you always perform a patch test before using large amounts of any neem products.
Trying neem is an effective and natural way to whiten your teeth while promoting overall oral health. However, for optimal results, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene habits like regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups along with using neem products.
