3. Salt Water Gargle
This simple solution uses a teaspoon of salt dissolved in a cup of boiling water to fight infection and relieve throat pain. It’s also a great solution to flush away debris and ease swelling. Make sure to let the water to cool slightly and swish around for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat as needed.
4. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint oil is an effective intracanal antiseptic solution against oral pathogens, according to a 2013 study (6). The best way to make the remedy work for you is by drinking peppermint tea containing at least 1 teaspoon of peppermint leaves steeped for a minimum of 20 minutes. This will also relieve bad breath and a bad headache, a typical side-effect tooth pain.
Alternatively, steep up some strong black tea, drink up, and place a warm wet tea bag against affected tooth.
5. Myrhh
“Myrrh’s astringent properties help with inflammation, and a rinse can offer the added benefit of reducing bacteria,” writes RDH (7). To make your own myrrh rinse, simmer one teaspoon of powdered myrrh in two cups of water. Let it cool and use five or six times a daily, after eating.
You can also simply buy a myrrh tincture at your local health food store, dilute in water, and apply the solution to the affected tooth using a cotton swab. Do not use myrrh long-term and avoid if you suffer from kidney problems.
6. Raw Garlic
Garlic is a true powerhouse when it comes to natural medicine, as it has the ability to fight viruses, bacteria, fungi, and more. Allicin, the main active compound in garlic, doesn’t respond well to heat, so it’s best to use raw garlic as medicine (8).
First, crush a clove of garlic and let it sit for 15 minutes to activate its beneficial compounds. Then, you can either mash it with a bit of salt and apply the paste directly to the affected tooth or chew the clove using the affected tooth. Repeat 2-3 times daily, as needed.