Tooth care is another area in your personal care regimen where you could be exposed to potentially harmful chemicals. These include fluoride, triclosan, parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate (sls), as well as artificial colours, sweeteners and flavourings. You might tell yourself that you do not necessarily swallow your toothpaste, but it is important to note that your mouth has an absorption efficiency rate of 90% of what it comes into contact with.
Admittedly, if you have been using foamy white tooth paste your entire life, our tooth powder will be a bit of a shock. If you keep an open mind, there is always a way to change your normal. My son e.g. has never seen foamy white tooth paste and would be utterly shocked at discovering there are people out there who do not brush with black powder.
What is so special about our tooth powder? The ingredients have various benefits for oral health. Bentonite clay is antibacterial and antifungal, promoting healthy teeth and gums. It absorbs toxins, impurities and heavy metals, and has absorptive properties which help remove stains from the teeth. Himalayan salt inhibits bacteria growth and supports teeth remineralisation. Cinnamon powder protects against bacteria causing bad breath, tooth decay, cavities and mouth infections. It freshens breath and has traditionally been used to treat tooth aches, dental problems, oral microbiota & mouth sores. Clove powder is a natural anti-inflammatory and assists in reducing gum disease. Peppermint essential oil is antibacterial and ensures fresh breath! Can you claim the same benefits from your current tooth paste?
Try it, and be sure to let us know what you think!
Activated Tooth Powder
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons bentonite clay
- ¼ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda / baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon Himalayan salt
- 1½ teaspoons powdered peppermint leaves
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- ¾ teaspoon activated charcoal powder
- ½ teaspoon clove powder
- 1-2 teaspoons organic stevia leaf powder (depending on how sweet you prefer)
- 30-60 drops of peppermint essential oil
For a child-friendly version, omit the peppermint essential oil above and add:
- 1 teaspoon powdered peppermint leaves (in addition to peppermint leaves added above)
- 1½ teaspoons cinnamon powder (in addition to the cinnamon powder added above)
- 10-15 drops of cinnamon essential oil
Instructions
- Grind the peppermint leaves in a high-speed blender or bullet mixer until completely powdered. You don’t want peppermint leaves stuck between your teeth after brushing.
- Add all the ingredients to an air-tight glass jar and stir gently to mix properly.
- Store in the bathroom and use in morning and evening. You can moisten your toothbrush and dip into the powder, or use a small wooden spoon to place the powder on your toothbrush and keep moisture out of the jar. Brush as normal.