Vanilla and Toothaches
Natural home remedies for toothaches abound. Vanilla extract, one commonly used remedy, has widely been reported to soothe toothaches when pain killers and other natural remedies are insufficient and getting to the dentist right away is impossible.
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Vanilla Extract Facts
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Vanilla extract is a liquid composed of the extract of vanilla beans in an alcohol solution. Vanilla beans are the fruit of the vanilla plant which grows most often in Mexico. Usually thought of as an ingredient in the kitchen cupboard, vanilla has health benefits and many home applications such as pain relief, as a natural air freshener, and to help relieve depression and anxiety among others.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires that in order for it to be called pure, vanilla extract must contain a minimum of 35 percent alcohol and 13.35 ounces of vanilla bean per gallon.
Pain Relieving Properties of Vanilla
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Vanilla extract contains Eugenol, an essential oil that has antiseptic and analgesic properties. Since the clear or pale yellow liquid is used in dentist offices to make zinc-oxide eugenol paste for temporary fillings and other dentistry application, it is understandable why vanilla extract has become a common remedy for toothaches. Its analgesic properties may provide temporary relief from pain.
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Does Vanilla Extract Work on Toothaches?
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While scientific research has not been pursued to verify if vanilla extract works on toothaches, a leading dentist at FoxNews Health Blog, Dr. Gerald P. Curatola, recommends using vanilla extract on toothaches when getting in to see the dentist is delayed for some reason.
Applying Vanilla Extract
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Vanilla extract should be applied to the aching tooth by pouring 3 to 4 drops onto a cotton ball and swabbing the tooth and gums. The extract can also be applied directly on the painful tooth. Vanilla extract is safe for use on teething babies, and the benefits may extend beyond temporary pain relief to provide a calming effect.
Considerations
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Pure vanilla extract should be used in the treatment of toothaches. Imitation vanilla is often found next to pure vanilla in the supermarket isle, but will not provide relief when applied. Pure vanilla can also be purchased at natural health food stores. The use of vanilla extract is a temporary measure to control pain. Following up with a dentist for all tooth pain is recommended to maintain overall dental health.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit vanilla beans image by joanna wnuk from Fotolia.com
