What Is Pyorrhea and How Can It Be Treated in Ayurveda?

Written by

Dr. Harsha Joy

Nangelil Ayurveda Medical College

I am Dr. Harsha Joy, and I mostly work with women who are struggling with stuff like hormonal issues, skin flare-ups, hair thinning, or fertility troubles that don't always have one straight answer. Over the years, I’ve realised that real healing doesn’t come from a standard protocol—it comes when you actually sit with a person, understand what their day looks like, how they eat sleep think feel. That’s where Ayurveda makes all the sense in the world to me. My clinical work revolves around women’s health—especially gynecology and infertility care. Many women who reach out to me have tried many things, felt confused or unheard. Whether it’s PCOS, irregular cycles, or just feeling "off" hormonally, I try to look at the root imbalance—agni, ama, ojas—basic Ayurvedic fundamentals that still explain modern conditions better than most charts or labels. Fertility support is something close to my heart... we don’t rush anything. It’s more like—let’s fix the ecosystem inside first. I also work with chronic skin and hair problems. Acne that just won't leave, hyperpigmentation, postpartum hair loss, oily scalp with dandruff... and again, for these too, it’s usually not a skin problem. It’s digestion, stress, sleep, circulation—internal stuff showing up outside. We work with diet tweaks, gut reset, herbs, maybe some lepas or sneha therapy—but always after tuning into what *your* body wants. Outside my clinic I write a lot. I'm part of content teams that simplify Ayurveda into understandable bits—whether it's about hormonal balance or skincare or daily routines. Writing has helped me reach people who aren’t ready to consult but want to start somewhere. And I think that matters too. I don’t believe in intense detoxes or piling on medicines. The work I do is slow, layered, sometimes messy—but that's healing. That’s what I try to offer—whether someone walks in with hair loss or years of failed fertility cycles. Every body has its own story and my job’s just to hear it right. Maybe guide it back home.

Pyorrhea, or periodontitis or periodontal disease, is a severe and advanced form of gum disease. It involves inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone. Pyorrhea can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. In Ayurveda, pyorrhea is generally referred to as “Danta Rakta Daha” or “Danta Mamsa Daha.”

Ayurvedic treatments for pyorrhea typically focus on maintaining oral hygiene, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall health. Regarding pyorrhea, Ayurvedic treatments aim to address the root causes of the condition and provide natural remedies to reduce inflammation, and infection, and promote oral health. Here are more details on the key aspects of Ayurvedic treatment for pyorrhea:

Herbal Remedies:

Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem is often referred to as the “wonder herb” in Ayurveda and is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Rinsing the mouth with neem water or using neem-based toothpaste can help reduce bacteria in the oral cavity and soothe inflamed gums.

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum): Clove oil and powder are used in Ayurveda for their analgesic and antimicrobial properties. They can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with pyorrhea.

Triphala: This herbal formula consists of three fruits, Amla, Haritaki and Bibhitaki. It’s known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Triphala can be used as a mouthwash to support oral health.

Oil Pulling:

Oil pulling known as GANDUSHA involves swishing a tablespoon of oil (commonly sesame oil) in the mouth for an extended period, typically 4-5 minutes. This practice is believed to draw out toxins, reduce harmful bacteria, improve overall oral hygiene, and provide strength to the teeth and gums.

Ayurvedic Diet:

Ayurvedic dietary recommendations for oral health include consuming foods that are rich in astringent and bitter tastes. These tastes help cleanse and tone the gums. Examples include leafy greens, pomegranates, and legumes. A balanced diet supports overall well-being and helps the body resist infections.

Proper Oral Hygiene:

Ayurveda advocates for regular and thorough oral hygiene practices. This includes brushing with a soft toothbrush, flossing to remove food particles and plaque, and using natural toothpaste or powders with herbal ingredients. Some Ayurvedic mouthwashes are formulated with herbal ingredients such as amla, licorice, or triphala. These mouthwashes can provide antimicrobial benefits and support gum health.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Stress management is considered crucial in Ayurveda as stress can affect overall health, including oral health. Practicing stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, and relaxation exercises can be beneficial. Maintaining good digestion is also emphasized, as poor digestion can lead to toxins in the body that may contribute to oral health problems.

In conclusion, Ayurveda, with its ancient wisdom and holistic approach to health, offers remedies and practices for addressing pyorrhea, a severe form of gum disease. Ayurvedic treatments for pyorrhea emphasize natural solutions, including the use of herbal remedies like neem, clove, and Triphala, as well as practices like oil pulling and maintaining a balanced diet. Ayurveda encourages proper oral hygiene, stress management, and lifestyle adjustments to promote oral health. While Ayurveda can be valuable for preventing and managing pyorrhea, it is essential to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized guidance and a comprehensive treatment plan that aligns with Ayurvedic principles.

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This article is checked by the current qualified Dr. Harsha Joy and can be considered a reliable source of information for users of the site.