Clove Essential Oil for Tooth Pain

What is clove essential oil?

Cloves are dried buds from a tree in the Myrtaceae family. The extraction from clove is called eugenol. The concentration of eugenol varies from 60% to 90% depending on the part from where it is extracted. It can be extracted from stem, bud or leaf. However, the stem extraction method yields the highest concentration of eugenol. Clove oil is widely used in dentistry to relieve discomfort and pain. It has a very strong smell which can linger for hours after use.

How does it work?

Clove essential oil, when applied topically, works by effectively numbing that area. Topical numbing agents temporarily deaden the nerve endings causing you to  lose sensation in the afflicted area. In one study two different groups of participants were  given either benzocaine or clove oil. The study concluded that both had the same efficacy. Even though the FDA takes the use of clove oil less seriously, many ardent fans of it have sang its praises for centuries as an all-natural tooth ache remedy. As an added benefit, it acts and an anti-bacterial agent if the area of pain happens to be infected.

How do I use it?

Clove oil is used across the world by the dentists as a natural pain reliever, especially after the removal of teeth.  It can be used in babies as well as adults by putting 2 to 3 drops of it in a clean container, and then adding 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil or other safe carrier oil. This dilution method helps prevent soft tissue irritation that is common when clove oil is used alone. After you have made the mixture, soak a piece of cotton in it and blot anyexcess oil out. Finally,  place it on the effected area for 10 seconds. Rinse out the mouth immediately afterwards to avoid ingesting any oil.

Is it safe to use?

Clove oil is a very strong and toxic oil if used in excess. It can cause a burning sensation on the tissue and cause nerve damage. If ingested in large quantities it can cause vomiting, difficulty in breathing, improper functioning of kidney and in extreme cases, seizures. Therefore, precaution should be taken and you should always consult your physician before use. If you plan on using clove essential oil for teething, ALWAYS consult your pediatrician and dentist.

The brand I trust most is Mountain Rose’s Organic Clove Bud Essential Oil.

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