Myrrh gum resin (Commiphora myrrha)*

An excellent astringent and antiseptic used topically for apthous stomatata, bedsores and herpes, and as a gargle for strep throat, laryngitis, and pyorrhea. Taken internally myrrh stimulates white blood cells and is specifically indicated for acute infections of the mucus membranes of the throat, stomach, and bowels.

Spilanthes fresh herb (Spilanthes acmella)*

Also known as Paraguay Cress or Toothache plant. It is rich in chemicals called isobutylamides which act as immune stimulants and antibacterial and antifungal agents. It can also be used as a local anesthetic to the mouth, gums, teeth and throat. Spilanthes inhibits spirochetes and is useful for urinary tract pain.

Thyme herb (Thymus vulgaris)*

Contains an essential oil, Thymol, which has significant antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and antiviral activity. It inhibits the pathogens that cause plaque formation and gum disease and helps heal the buccal mucous membrane. It is also a carminative and especially useful for cold/damp lung conditions.

Goldenseal dried root (Hydrastis canadensis)*

A strong antiseptic and antifungal. It has a strong effect on the liver, stimulating bile formation and expulsion.  Useful in cases of upper respiratory infection including tonsillitis, strep throat, sore throat, sinus infection, post nasal drip and uvulitis where there is excess mucus. Goldenseal has a long tradition of use as a local antibacterial, especially to the skin, throat, sinuses and urinary tract. Rich in alkaloids, especially the intense yellow colored berberine, this herb has shown activity against a wide range of pathogens including Staphylococcus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, E. coli, Chlamydia trachomatis, Candida albicans, Leishmania donovanii, and Entamoeba histolytica.  Because it is bitter, Goldenseal will stimulate digestion and absorption, but long term use will impair digestion by killing beneficial flora in the gut. In clinical trials, Goldenseal was beneficial in the treatment of hypochlorhydria, chronic cholecystitis, acute gastroenteritis, bacillary dysentery, cervical erosion and conjunctivitis. Overuse of Goldenseal can also affect liver and kidney functions, so it is best used sparingly on a short term basis, combined with substances that normalize bowel flora such as fructo-oligerosaccharides (FOS) and acidophilus.

Calendula flower (Calendula officinalis)*

Has long been used as a vulnerary to heal the skin and mucous membranes.  It has antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activity.  It not only heals the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, it also can be helpful for irritation of the eyes, vaginal tract, anti-inflammatory  for skin conditions.

Witch Hazel fresh leaf (Hamammelis virginiana)*

Is a time tested astringent and vulnerary that contains eugenol, an essential oil with antibacterial activity. It also contains substantial amounts of condensed polyphenols which stop bleeding, inhibit viral growth, and act as anti-inflammatory agents. Witch Hazel is often used topically for bruises, strains, sprains and as a sitz bath for hemorrhoids.

Peppermint essential oil*

Provides a clean refreshing flavor to this preparation and also acts as an antibacterial agent and carminative.

Cinnamon essential oil*

Provides a pleasant flavor as well as helps to control bleeding gums. It also  has antibacteria, styptic, and carminative properties.

Bibliography:

Duke, J.  White Teeth and White Flowers, Journal of the National Wildflower Research Center, 1993, pp 10-15
Mills, S. and Bone, K.  Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy, Churchill Livingstone, Edinburgh, 1999
Sherman, J. ND  The Complete Botanical Prescriber [by author], Portland, OR, 1993
Winston, D. Herbal Therapeutics, Herbal Therapeutics Research Library, 2003