Natural Remedies To Get Rid Of Gingivitis

According to the CDC Division of Oral Health, nearly 50% of American adults and more than 70% over the age of 65 suffer from gum disease, also known as periodontitis or periodontal disease. Gum pain and the effect it has on eating aren’t the only concerns. Studies have shown gum disease is linked to heart and vascular disease. But, there’s good news! You can effectively support your oral health at home and avoid suffering from gum disease.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Red, swollen gums, or gingivitis, is commonly the first symptom. You may know this condition by the very sensitive, sore gums that may bleed when you brush and floss your teeth. Constant bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth may also indicate periodontal disease. Symptoms of full onset of gum disease include pain while chewing, gums pulling away from your teeth, pus between your gums and teeth, or a loose tooth or teeth.

Causes of Gum Disease and Gingivitis

Poor dental hygiene is the number one factor that leads to gum disease. It allows bacterial growth in your mouth, and while some bacteria are friendly, many are not. Most of the sugar-loaded, processed foods we eat encourage the growth of these ‘bad’ bacteria in the plaque that forms between your teeth and gums. Without proper brushing and flossing, the bacteria can cause inflammation and if left untreated, it can lead to the erosion of the gum tissue and bone in your jaw.

While oral hygiene is the number one determining factor for gum health, some conditions may increase the risk. Hormonal changes, like those during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can increase gum sensitivity. The high blood sugar of diabetes weakens the immune system and allows bad bacteria to take hold. Smoking damages gum tissue reducing its ability to recover. And if your family has a history of gum disease, you may be genetically inclined to it, but that doesn’t mean you’ll get it; you just need to take care of your teeth and gums. It may be possible to reduce the risk of serious diseases simply by approaching your gum health.

Natural Home Remedies for Gum Health

Natural home remedies have healed gum disease for centuries. Here are five simple ways to avoid periodontal disease you can start using today:

Salt Water

Salt water kills bacteria and cleanses the infected area of the gums. Mix 1 Tbsp of sea salt in a cup of warm water. Swish it around in your mouth for a minute or two and then spit it out.

Sage

The anti-inflammatory and cleansing properties of sage have made it a home remedy for centuries. Chop up a fresh sage leaf or take a pinch of dried sage, rub it on the infected area of your gum and then pack it on the infected area. Leave it for 2-3 minutes. Mix in sea salt with the sage for additional cleaning.

Turmeric

The curcumin in turmeric possesses powerful anti-inflammatory effects and turmeric also has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. This cleanses the wound and encourages healing. Combine turmeric powder with water or mash up some fresh turmeric root. Brush this paste onto your teeth and gums with a soft toothbrush.

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient technique has been used for centuries to keep the teeth and gums healthy. It uses oil to cleanse infected areas and help the gums heal. Take a tablespoon of sesame, coconut, or sunflower oil and swish it around your mouth for a couple minutes, focusing on the infected gum. Spit out (do not swallow!) and rinse immediately with warm water.

Baking Soda

This may be the simplest preventative solution around. You could use a baking soda paste regularly instead of toothpaste, but be careful–baking soda is highly abrasive and should be used gently in combination with olive oil. If your gums do get infected, rather than brushing it on, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to your gums. Do this for 2 minutes, two to three times a week.

Ozonated Olive Oil Boosts Oral Health

In some cases, unhealthy gums may need a more powerful response and ozonated olive oil can deliver powerful healing right at your home. ^[1] Olive oil helps clean and supply essential vitamins to the gums, and studies show topically applied ozone acts fast to improve wound healing and gum injuries without side effects. ^[2][3]Research finds it is effective against swollen gums and the bleeding gums. In one clinical trial, patients using ozonated oil healed “significantly” faster than the control group that used normal healing protocols. ^[4] And take it from one of my clients, ozonated oil works!

“Great for my gums! Dentist told me I had the gums of a 60 year old (I’m 31). I started swishing with O2-Zap® after brushing my teeth and my gums are getting healthier. This stuff is now part of my dental regimen. Thanks!” – Ben

Here’s how to use an ozonated olive oil like O2-Zap®.

1. First, brush gently with a soft toothbrush and non-fluoride toothpaste.


2. Next, take the time to floss thoroughly by flossing each side of the tooth down to the gum line to remove plaque and debris.


3. Finally, massage the gums gently with ozonated olive oil for 10 minutes.


4. Additionally, brush your teeth with ozonated olive oil as a supplementary approach.

Follow these steps to experience healthier gums and improved oral health. Have you used ozonated olive oil? Share your experience with us!

References:

1. Mohammadi Z1, Shalavi S, Soltani MK, Asgary S. review of the properties and applications of ozone in endodontics: an update. Iran Endod J. 2013 Spring;8(2):40-3. Epub 2013 May 1.


2. Patel PV1, Patel A, Kumar S, Holmes JC. Effect of subgingival application of topical ozonated olive oil in the treatment of chronic periodontitis: a randomized, controlled, double blind, clinical and microbiological study. Minerva Stomatol. 2012 Sep;61(9):381-98.


3. M.Y.M. Shoukheba, Sh.A. Ali. The effects of subgingival application of ozonated olive oil gel in patient with localized aggressive periodontitis. A clinical and bacteriological study. Other info.


4. Patel PV1, Kumar S, Vidya GD, et al. Cytological assessment of healing palatal donor site wounds and grafted gingival wounds after application of ozonated oil: an eighteen-month randomized controlled clinical trial. Acta Cytol. 2012;56(3):277-84. doi: 10.1159/000336889. Epub 2012 Apr 26.

The post Natural Remedies To Get Rid Of Gingivitis appeared first on The Sleuth Journal.

Home Remedy For Acne And Acne Scars – Ozonated Olive Oil

Although acne may be relatively harmless, the stress that comes with pimples is not. Acne may be known as a teenage affliction, but the fact is 40-50 million Americans suffer from this skin condition at any given time. ^[1] That’s teenagers, young adults, middle-aged men and women, and even babies (“baby acne” is very common in newborns). Chemical formulations can be of help, but these medications often interfere with hormonal function. Fortunately, many organic skin care products can get rid of pimples and acne scars without you having to develop a heavy toxic burden. Let’s take a look at these natural alternatives.

Causes of Acne

Acne includes anything from blackheads and whiteheads to pustules and cysts. It starts when a pore in your skin gets clogged. If bacteria gets trapped below the blockage, your skin swells, turns into a pink or red spot, and then becomes sensitive. It doesn’t take long before it becomes a whitehead. If it goes deep enough, it can become a cyst. Check out this video of causes and possible solutions to acne.

Why do pores get clogged? The simple answer is dead cells accumulate and trap sebum — the oil your skin produces to stay moisturized. There are, however, other factors that play a role.

Acne often appears at times in your life when you undergo hormonal shifts, like birth, adolescence, and middle age. That’s because hormones adjust sebum production and your skin may produce more oil. Sugary and fatty foods can play a role as they also affect your hormones. You may have heard that you should avoid chocolate or candy to prevent acne. Keep in mind your skin is also an exit path for toxins, so if you’re carrying a heavy toxin load you can be at a higher risk for a disruption to your skin’s natural oil production.

Natural Remedies for Acne

When it comes to acne, it seems you’re advised to deal with it or use harsh chemicals that burn and irritate your skin even more. You don’t need to do that, because there are a number of natural remedies that can produce great results. Keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different, so you may need to try a couple before you find the one that works for you. For the best effect with any of these home remedies, first apply a warm water compress to your face with a towel to encourage your pores to open.

Tea Tree Oil

Also known as melaleuca oil, tea tree oil clears away bacteria, thereby reducing redness and swelling and cleans out pores.

Lemon Juice

Ascorbic acid kills acne-causing bacteria and helps the skin exfoliate and shed those dead skin cells that clog pores, making your skin smooth. It has astringent properties which dries the skin of excess oil, and its antioxidant properties keep your skin healthy.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Here’s another popular home acne remedy that kills bacteria, dries up excess oil, and balances your skin’s pH.

Olive oil

A light application of olive oil delivers vitamins and antioxidants that help your skin regulate oil production, discourages bacterial growth, and reduces infection and swelling.

Read Dr. Group’s ozonated olive oil recommendation

Get Rid of Acne Scars

Sometimes acne leaves behind faint marks or scars where the acne appeared. Try these popular skin remedies to encourage your skin to heal.

Cocoa Butter

Loaded with fatty acids, it moisturizes and penetrates into your dermis, the deeper second layer of skin, where it nourishes and supports smooth skin.

Vitamin E Oil

Natural skin oils often contain vitamin E to heal and protect your skin. It helps reduce swelling and protects from free radicals and UV rays. Apply to the areas with acne scars, let absorb for 15 minutes, then rinse.

Turmeric and Mint

The antioxidant and soothing properties of turmeric can help keep your skin clean and encourage healing. Mint also helps soothe swollen skin, calms nerves to reduce pain and itchiness, and encourages healing. Combine the two in a blender to create a paste and apply to the acne.

Aloe Vera

What list wouldn’t be complete without Aloe Vera? This natural skin mender moisturizes and nourishes to heal acne scars quickly. Use the juice from a fresh cut aloe vera leaf, or use natural, organic aloe vera juice.

O2-Zap® for Acne and Acne Scars

A simple acne solution for every skin type is an ozonated olive oil like O2-Zap. This salve cleanses, helps remove harmful toxins and free radicals, moisturizes, calms skin, and reduces redness and swelling. Korean researchers have found it’s more effective than olive oil alone. ^[2] The oxygen delivered by ozonated ointments improves circulation and stimulates cell recovery for faster healing. ^[3]

That’s what science says about ozonated olive oil, but here’s what my customers said about their experience with O2-Zap ozonated olive oil:

“I have acne on my cheeks pretty bad and this has lessened it dramatically.” – Miranda

“I use this 2-3 times a week, and it has really improved my skin.” – Zach Carp

Have you experienced the positive benefits of Ozonated Olive Oil or other natural skin remedies for acne? Share your experience with the community below.

References:

1. American Academy of Dermatology. Acne: Who gets and causes. American Academy of Dermatology.


2. Kim HS1, Noh SU, Han YW, et al. Therapeutic effects of topical application of ozone on acute cutaneous wound healing. J Korean Med Sci. 2009 Jun;24(3):368-74. doi: 10.3346/jkms.2009.24.3.368.


3. Travagli V, Zanardi I, Valacchi G, Bocci V. Ozone and Ozonated Oils in Skin Diseases: A Review. Mediators of Inflammation. 2010;2010:610418. doi:10.1155/2010/610418.

 

The post Home Remedy For Acne And Acne Scars – Ozonated Olive Oil appeared first on The Sleuth Journal.

Ozonated Olive Oil Promotes Oral Health

The use of oxygen in complementary therapies has been gaining momentum in recent years, particularly in the area of dentistry. While ozonated olive oil has many practical and effective uses, such as supporting skin health, research has shown it to be especially helpful for periodontal disease. Gingivitis, typically caused by diets laden with sugar and refined carbohydrates, is a growing issue today. One recent study is revealing just how powerful ozonated therapy can be in the area of teeth and gum health. If you’re currently suffering from any type of dental issue, you may want to continue reading.

Olive Oil: A Potential Complementary Periodontitis Approach

Ozone therapy isn’t an entirely new concept in dentistry. Previous research and medical reviews have discussed the importance of ozone in replacing antiseptic agents used against gingival infections. ^[1] A study published in Tanta Dental Journal evaluated 30 subjects with periodontal disease, each receiving standard periodontitis treatments. ^[2] Half of the group was subjected to both standard treatments and ozonated therapy. These patients received ozonated olive oil gel applied to the main site of gum damage.

The group that received the complementary therapy in addition to conventional treatment saw longer lasting improvements in symptoms. As a matter of fact, the ozonated therapy combined with root scaling resulted in sustained improvements for up to six months, while the benefits from the standard treatment alone only lasted about a month. Although the size of the study participants is relatively small, it is one study among dozens that indicate the effectiveness of ozone therapy in complementing standard medical applications.

Using Ozonated Olive Oil

One of the main uses for ozonated olive oil is in the area of skin health. Ozonated olive oil contains antibacterial compounds that may support the skin’s defense against bacteria and other compounds that cause acne. Olive oil itself is also an excellent moisturizer, providing a nourishing smoothness to the skin. Many people also brush their teeth with ozonated olive oil in addition to fluoride-free toothpaste to get a deep clean.

What are your favorite ways to use ozonated olive oil? Let us know in the comments!

References:

1. Huth KC, Jakob FM, Saugel B, et al. Effect of ozone on oral cells compared with established antimicrobials. Eur J Oral Sci. 2006 Oct;114(5):435.


2. M.Y.M. Shoukheba, Sh.A. Ali. The effects of subgingival application of ozonated olive oil get in patient with localized aggressive periodontitis. A clinical and bacteriological study. Tanta Dental Journal. Volume 11, Issue 1, April 2014, Pages 63-73.