There are a surprising number of neem toothpaste benefits for those who want to make the switch to this well-kept Ayurvedic secret.
Neem Toothpaste
Neem toothpaste is a popular natural toothpaste that uses neem oil as a natural antibacterial cleaner. Neem oil is a traditional treatment for gums and teeth that is extracted from the evergreen neem plant (Azadirachta indica [1]). The Neem plant is native to Asia and is found most commonly on the Indian continent, where the twigs and leaves of the plant have been used to provide effective oral care for centuries. Neem oil is an essential ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine and is used extensively both in oral and topical treatments. According to a study published in the Canadian Journal of Botany, Opender Koul et al. explain the extensive uses of neem, including its role in traditional toothpaste, dating back thousands of years, in some instances. [2]
When buying neem toothpaste, it is important to check the ingredient list. In recent years, neem oil products have risen in popularity with health food consumers. However, not all neem toothpaste is natural. Often, a brand may add a little bit of neem oil in addition to ingredients like fluoride. You can buy neem toothpaste at health stores, online, or your pharmacy store.
Neem toothpaste is a safe alternative for regular use. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Neem Toothpaste Benefits
Neem oil in the neem toothpaste has many [3] oral benefits. It is anti-bacterial and anti-diabetic, a powerful antioxidant and astringent, with anti-inflammatory properties. Not only do neem oil’s antibacterial properties help control bad breath, fight infection, and prevent plaque from building up, but it may also help reverse the effects of gingivitis. Many people prefer to use toothpaste with neem, rather than just using the bark or extract, as it has been shown to greatly improve dental hygiene when used together. Neem is also often recommended for relieving toothaches and the related inflammation. [4]
Side Effects of Neem Toothpaste
The ingestion of neem oil in large amounts has been shown to reduce [6] fertility in limited animal studies. Serious side effects can also include nausea, vomiting, seizures, blood disorders, and death in small children. Pregnant women should avoid neem oil if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Prolonged use can cause possible kidney and liver damage. However, the amount of neem extract in commercial toothpaste is usually small enough to be negligible when used as recommended.
