Sage & Salt Gum Rinse
Traditional astringent mouthwash for bleeding, inflamed gums
Moderate evidenceHerbs in this remedy
About this remedy
Sage has been used as an oral rinse across Europe for centuries — its rosmarinic acid and essential oils are astringent (they tighten and tone gum tissue) and antibacterial (they reduce plaque-forming bacteria). Combined with a pinch of sea salt, which is mildly antimicrobial and osmotic, this rinse is one of the simplest and most cost-effective natural remedies for mild gum bleeding and inflammation. A 2015 clinical trial found sage mouthwash significantly reduced plaque and gingivitis over 21 days.
Preparation
Steep 1 tbsp dried sage leaves in 1 cup boiling water for 10–15 minutes. Strain and let cool. Add ¼ tsp fine sea salt and stir until dissolved.
Dosage
Swish 30 ml (a small mouthful) around the mouth and along the gum line for 30–60 seconds, twice daily. Spit out — do not swallow. Store the rest in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Cautions
Not for pregnant or breastfeeding women (sage may reduce milk supply and, in large amounts, can be uterine-stimulating). Do not swallow — the salt content is not for consumption. If bleeding persists more than 2 weeks, see a dentist.
Research
Beheshti-Rouy et al., Iran J Microbiol, 2015 — Sage mouthwash and plaque reduction