If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, your mouth is telling you something: inflammation is present, and harmful bacteria are likely thriving. Instead of turning to harsh, alcohol-based mouthwashes, many are now using herbal mouth rinses that soothe, disinfect, and help heal bleeding gums — naturally.
In this article, you’ll find easy, effective herbal mouthwash recipes you can make at home, using ingredients with proven antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Want a done-for-you gum-healing formula? Try this plant-powered gum disease remedy packed with clove, neem, CoQ10, and vitamin C — all shown to stop bleeding and rebuild gum tissue.
Why Herbal Mouthwashes Work for Gum Disease
Most store-bought rinses contain alcohol or chemicals that kill both good and bad bacteria — disrupting your oral microbiome. Herbal rinses, on the other hand, target inflammation and pathogens while supporting healing.
Benefits of herbal mouthwashes:
- Reduce bleeding and swelling
- Calm irritated gum tissue
- Kill bad breath bacteria
- Support the natural healing of gum pockets
Best Herbs for Bleeding Gums
- Clove: Antiseptic, pain-relieving, and strengthens gum tissue
- Neem: Antibacterial and anti-plaque
- Chamomile: Reduces swelling and speeds healing
- Sage: Antimicrobial and soothing
- Peppermint: Freshens breath and calms inflamed tissue
- Thyme: Strong antibacterial and antifungal
3 DIY Herbal Mouthwash Recipes
🧪 Recipe 1: Clove & Peppermint Gum Soother
Ingredients:
- 1 cup distilled or filtered water
- 5 drops clove essential oil
- 5 drops peppermint essential oil
- 1 tsp baking soda (optional, balances pH)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a glass jar
- Shake before each use
- Swish for 30 seconds to 1 minute after brushing
🌿 Recipe 2: Chamomile & Sage Anti-Bleeding Rinse
Ingredients:
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 tsp dried chamomile
- 1 tsp dried sage
Instructions:
- Steep herbs in boiling water for 15–20 minutes
- Strain and let cool
- Use as a rinse 2–3 times daily
🌱 Recipe 3: Neem & Salt Healing Blend
Ingredients:
- 1/2 tsp neem powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
- Stir well and rinse after brushing
- Use morning and evening
Pro Tips for Herbal Mouth Rinses
- Store in a glass bottle in the fridge for up to 5–7 days
- Always shake before use if using essential oils
- Rinse after meals and before bed
- Combine with gentle brushing and oil pulling for faster results
Final Thoughts
Herbal mouthwashes are one of the easiest and most effective ways to soothe bleeding gums and stop gum disease naturally. Used daily, they can reduce inflammation, eliminate bad bacteria, and support gum tissue healing — without the burn of alcohol-based rinses.
Want to speed up healing? Pair your rinse with this natural gum support formula for full-spectrum gum care.
Need more help healing your gums? Read our full guide on how to cure gum disease naturally using food, oral care, and herbs.