Herbs, which are powerful healing agents, must be used appropriately. Always know what you are taking. Keep in mind that not all plant life is beneficial. Certain herbs may be toxic, especially when used over a long period of time or in too great amounts. Herbs contain active ingredients that may interact negatively with prescribed medications or other remedies. It is wise, therefore, to consult a health-care professional in situations in which you question the appropriateness of the herb or its interaction with other remedies. Also note that the herbal recommendations found in Part Two are for adults, not children.

The herbs most commonly used for dental problems are described below. Specific advice on the use of these herbs for various conditions can be found in Part Two. Directions for preparing various herbal remedies can be found under Using Herbs in Part Three.

Alfalfa
Also known as buffalo herb, alfalfa grows in dry fields, in sandy wastes, and along some roadsides. It reaches a height of one to two feet and has bluish flowers from June through August. The leaves, petals, flowers, and sprouts are commonly used to treat stomach and blood disorders. One of the richest sources of trace minerals and an antioxidant, alfalfa is high in calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, chlorine, and vitamin K.

Precautions and Recommendations

• Alfalfa is useful in cases of hemorrhaging and fungal infections.
• Available in liquid form, it is an excellent choice as a mineral supplement.

Aloe Vera
A native of southern Africa, the aloe vera plant has fleshy spiny-toothed leaves and red or yellow flowers It is an ingredient in many cosmetics because it heals moisturizes, and softens skin. Simply cut one of the aloe vera leaves to easily extract the soothing gel.

Precautions and Recommendations

• Aloe vera gel should not be taken internally in large quantities by those who have hemorrhoids or an] irritated colon.
• Pregnant women should not take aloe internally.
• Applied externally, aloe vera gel is excellent for soothing inflamed gums and sores in the mouth.

Anise
Also known as sweet fennel, anise is a native of Egypt. It grows to a height of ten or twelve inches and has light green leaves and small yellow-white flowers. The licorice-flavored seeds are used in medicine and as a flavoring.

Precautions and Recommendations

• An anti-inflammatory herb, anise is commonly used in tea form to soothe the gums.
• Chew fennel seeds whole to eliminate bad breath.

Annatto
A small tropical American tree, annatto is a rich source of vitamins A and D-richer than cod-liver oil. The pulp of the seeds, which is used in cooking, yields a yellowish-red dye. The pulp is also used medicinally.

Precautions and Recommendations

• Apply annatto after tooth extraction or gum surgery.

Arnica
A mountain plant that grows to about twenty inches in height, arnica has yellow-orange flowers that bloom in the summer. Arnica flowers are commonly used to combat fever, and to stimulate the heart, circulation, and digestive system. Arnica is also a homeopathic remedy.

Precautions and Recommendations

• Available in creams and ointments, arnica can be externally applied to relieve bruises, strains, sprains, pain, and muscle tension.