Description

Our oral health is intimately linking with our overall health and well-being. In this practical guide to herbal dental care, medical herbalist Leslie Alexander and registered dental hygienist Linda Straub-Bruce detail how to use 41 safe and effective herbs for optimum oral health, prevention of decay and inflammation, and relief from pain and discomfort.

The authors provide recipes for herbal toothpastes and rinses, poultices for pain and inflammation, and teas and tinctures for intervention, prevention, and daily care. They explain how recent research confirms the link between poor oral health and many diseases, such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. They examine the risk factors, symptoms, causes, and herbal preventives and remedies for 49 common conditions that affect the mouth, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, bruxism, acid reflux/GERD, and tooth loss. They explore the complete anatomy of the mouth and explain proper brushing, flossing, and tongue-cleaning techniques to prevent tooth decay and gum disease and maintain bridges, implants, and braces. The authors address the importance of diet and nutrition in oral health as well as controversial topics including fluoride. They provide an in-depth chapter on pregnancy, infant, and childhood oral care, including herbal remedies for teething and thrush.

Ideal for those looking to improve their own health, herbalists looking to treat the root cause of systemic inflammation, or dental professionals searching for natural alternative, this authoritative yet practical guide empowers each of us to reclaim the health of our mouths and sustain a full, strong set of teeth for a lifetime.

About the Author:

Leslie M. Alexander, PhD, RH(AHG), is a medical herbalist and former research scientist. A professional member of the American Herbalists Guild she is co-owner of Restoration Herbs.

Linda A. Straub-Bruce, BS Ed, RDH, is a practicing registering dental hygienist and member of the American Dental Hygienists Association. Both authors are members of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health and live in Western Pennsylvania.