Teeth as mighty as Oaks
Once a tooth becomes compromised by gum recession, decay or a fracture, the likelihood is that you’ll need treatment from a dentist. Whilst dentistry is an essential branch of medicine that most of us require from time to time, what if we could minimise the need to outsource oral health, just as we try to with all our other bodily systems?
Daily tongue scraping, oil pulling (particularly with Neem oil), flossing and rinsing with a solution of sodium bicarbonate will all contribute to a healthy mouth. First thing in the morning, however, and last thing at night, you can further assist your gums and teeth with help from one of earth’s noblest tree species, the Oak.
Oak trees contain tannins, an astringent that naturally supports gum health.
Traditionally, the chewed end of an oak twig has been used as a toothbrush owing to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. You can go one better by making a toothpowder from the bark.
Use younger branches, no wider than an inch, and cut strips of bark with a strong, sharp blade. Allow the bark to dry in a warm place and then crush it into smaller pieces – a tea towel and rolling pin works well – before whizzing the bits into a fine powder in a coffee grinder.
Use the following proportions to make oak toothpowder:
- 3 tbsp oak powder
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp ground fennel seed
- 1 tbsp sodium bicarbonate
Mix well, keep in a small jar and use twice a day for an oak tree smile!