How healthy is your Saliva? The Ayurvedic Perspective on Oral Health

In Ayurveda, health is not just the absence of disease; it is the harmonious functioning of the body’s natural intelligence. When this harmony is missing, there is an imbalance in the overall body. This imbalance shows in different ways in different parts of the body. Including in the oral cavity, where the imbalance may reflect in the quality and quantity of saliva, the colour and cleanliness of the tongue, gum inflammation. etc.

Often overlooked, saliva is essential to protect teeth and gums, to aid digestion, and to maintain overall oral hygiene. According to Ayurveda, the quality and quantity of saliva are deeply influenced by the balance of the three doshas (bio-energies)—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
A Vata-dominant person may experience a dry mouth, tooth sensitivity, and frequent toothaches. When Vata is out of balance, it can reduce saliva production, leaving the mouth vulnerable to bacteria buildup and decay. Those with a Pitta imbalance are prone to inflammation, gum bleeding, and acidic saliva. Excess heat in the body can erode tooth enamel, making the mouth more susceptible to ulcers and gum issues. Kapha imbalance may lead to overproduction of thick, heavy saliva, contributing to plaque buildup and an overall sluggish oral environment. Kapha types may also experience excessive salivation and a predisposition to mucus-related issues.
All of these can create great discomfort. An ayurvedic approach towards oral health can help support the restoration of health of the saliva and of the overall oral cavity, including up to the throat. While this approach is an important way to restore and prevent of further degeneration, more importantly – it also forms one very important leg of the overall process of the dosha rebalancing process.
Simple practices to restore balance to saliva and support holistic oral care
1. Use Mulethi (Licorice) Mouthwash for Saliva pH Balance
Mulethi, or licorice root, is renowned in Ayurveda for its soothing properties. Using a natural mouthwash made from mulethi powder can help regulate the pH of saliva, protecting teeth from decay and preventing inflammation. This simple practice can also refresh the breath.
2. Cleanse with Triphala Water
As the imbalance of dosha is the main reason behind all oral issues, rinsing the mouth with Triphala water can help take care of dosha imbalance in the saliva.
3. Practice Oil Pulling for Detoxification and Moisture Retention
Oil pulling involves swishing a tablespoon of oil (such as sesame or coconut) in the mouth for 10–15 minutes. This helps remove toxins, moisturise dry oral tissues, and enhance saliva production, making it especially beneficial for those with a Vata imbalance.
4. Choose a Toothpaste with Ayurvedic Herbs
Opting for a toothpaste formulated with Ayurvedic herbs, such as neem, clove, and licorice, can provide holistic care for your teeth and gums. These ingredients not only help combat common oral issues like plaque, cavities, and gum sensitivity but also support overall saliva balance. Regular use of such a toothpaste can strengthen teeth, reduce inflammation, and improve oral hygiene naturally. The right formulations can ensure optimal efficacy and action towards not only improving oral health but also beginning the overall journey to dosha imbalance.
5. Maintain Digestive Health for Optimal Oral Health
Ayurveda sees the gut as a mirror of overall health, including oral health. A well-balanced digestive system ensures that the body’s production of saliva remains healthy and balanced. Incorporating spices like cumin, coriander, and fennel can support digestion, indirectly benefiting oral health by promoting optimal saliva production.
By recognising the importance of saliva and integrating these simple tips, we can address imbalances and foster holistic health. The above practices restore oral health and the natural balance, irrespective of what imbalance one may have. Ayurveda can also prescribe specific solutions for those experiencing specific imbalances and even recognises that seasonal changes affect our bodies, including saliva production. For e.g., in dry seasons, increasing hydration and consuming foods rich in moisture can help counter a Vata imbalance, while avoiding overly spicy or salty foods in the summer can keep Pitta in check.
The key is to remember that Ayurveda encourages us to consider oral health as a reflection of the body's inner balance – i.e. that oral conditions are almost always a reflection of a more fundamental imbalance – which must be addressed at an overall level.
(Dr. Rini Vohra Shrivastava, Scientific Advisor, Maharishi Ayurveda)