Why ayurvedic? “It’s a system of traditional Indian medicine that gives you insight into your health in relation to the environment,” says practitioner Sebastian Pole of
pukkaherbs.com. Ayurvedic toothpastes contain few of the whiteners, abrasives, sweetening agents and sugars present in Western pastes. And let’s face it – minty freshness gets a bit tedious after a while. \1. In a bowl, blend three parts baking soda, one part salt and one part glycerin. \2. Ayurvedic toothpastes contain up to 20 herbs, roots and fruits to promote health in the teeth, mouth and digestive tract.
Prickly-ash bark is a sialagogue (promotes salivation) and is used to alleviate toothache. Neem tree twigs are often used as a toothbrush – they’re bitter but antibacterial and freshen the breath. All are sold as powders by ayurvedic herbalists. \3. For a simple paste use triphala powder, a combination of amla, haritaki and bibhitaki fruits. They astringe the mucus membranes, so are good for gums. \4. The mixture won’t necessarily taste great, so add a drop of edible essential oil: cinnamon, bergamot, peppermint and cloves are all fresh and tasty. \5. Some people add a whitener – low concentrations of food-grade hydrogen peroxide. That isn’t very ayurvedic, though.
