As winter sets in, many people experience the discomfort of chapped lips and sensitive teeth. The cold air, dry indoor environments, and hot beverages can all contribute to these issues. But fear not- Ayurveda, the ancient system of natural healing, offers holistic solutions that can help soothe and protect your lips and teeth during the harsh winter months.
Why winter affects your lips and teeth?
Chapped Lips:
Cold air and low humidity in winter strip moisture from the skin, causing lips to crack, flake and become irritated. Constantly licking your lips, which is a common instinct to relieve dryness, can also make the problem worse.
Tooth Sensitivity:
Winter’s chill can cause tooth sensitivity, especially when drinking hot beverages or eating cold foods. The temperature contrast can exacerbate already weakened tooth enamel or exposed nerve endings. In Ayurveda, dental sensitivity is often linked to an imbalance in the Vata Dosha, which governs dryness and coldness in the body.
Ayurvedic Remedies for Chapped lips
Hydration and Nourishment
One of the most effective ways to combat chapped lips is to keep them hydrated. In Ayurveda, this aligns with balancing the Vata Dosha, which governs dryness.
Use Natural Oils:
Apply a small amount of ghee (clarified butter) or sesame oil to your lips at night. These oils are nourishing and helps to restore moisture.
Herbal Lip Balm:
Make your own Ayurvedic lip balm using ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, shea butter, and a few drops of essential oils such as lavender or rose. These ingredients are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, offering a protective barrier against the cold.
Stay Hydrated:
Dry lips are often a sign of dehydration so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and sip on warm herbal teas like ginger tea or chamomile, both of which can help keep the skin hydrated from inside out.
Ayurvedic Remedies for Sensitive Teeth
Oil Pulling:
An ancient Ayurvedic practice, involves swishing oil around your mouth to remove toxins and improve oral health. Sesame oil or coconut oil are particularly beneficial for sensitive teeth. This practice helps strengthen gums, reduce plaques and soothe irritated nerves in the teeth. Do this thing first in the morning for 10-15 minutes before brushing your teeth.
Herbal Tooth Powders:
Ayurveda offers natural tooth powders made from herbal drugs like neem, clove and turmeric, which are known for their antibacterial and anti- inflammatory properties. These herbs help strengthen teeth, reduce sensitivity and support gum health. Look for Ayurvedic toothpaste or powders containing these ingredients or make your own mixture.
Clove Oil for Tooth Sensitivity:
Clove oil is a natural analgesic and can be used to alleviate tooth pain and sensitivity. Applying a few drops of clove oil to a cotton ball and gently rubbing it on the affected areas can provide quick relief. Clove also supports overall oral hygiene by fighting bacteria and preventing tooth decay.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry):
Amla is a potent antioxidant and vitamin C rich fruit that is revered in Ayurveda for its ability to strengthen teeth and gums. You can consume Amla in powder form or as a fruit, or use Amla based toothpaste to benefit from its tooth strengthening properties.
Lifestyle Tips to support winter Oral and Skin Health
Warm, Nutritious foods:
In Ayurveda, it is recommended to eat warm, nourishing foods that support digestion and keep the body balanced during cold weather. Soups, stews and tea made with warming spices like ginger, cinnamon and turmeric not only warm the body but also promote healthy circulation and moisture retention.
Herbal Teas for winter wellness
Certain herbal teas can help balance the dryness of winter. Drink tea made from Yashtimadhu (licorice root), ginger or cinnamon, which are known to enhance moisture levels in the body. These herbs are also helpful for maintaining good oral health, as they have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe sensitive gums and teeth.
Use a Humidifier
Winter air can be extremely drying, so adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can help prevent your lips and skin from becoming dry and cracked. This will also help maintain the moisture levels in your mouth, reducing tooth sensitivity.
Practice Stress Management
Winter can sometimes bring about seasonal mood changes and stress is often a contributor to physical issues like teeth grinding (bruxism), which can exacerbate tooth sensitivity. Consider incorporating Ayurvedic stress relieving practices like yoga, meditation and Pranayama (breath work) into your daily routine to reduce tension and promote overall well-being.
Ayurveda offers a holistic approach in managing the discomfort of chapped lips and sensitive teeth in winter. By incorporating nourishing oils, herbal remedies and lifestyle practices that balance the Vata Dosha, you can keep your lips soft and teeth healthy, no matter how cold it gets outside. With these natural remedies, you can enjoy a winter free from the discomfort of dryness and sensitivity, and instead embrace the season with a smile that is as radiant as ever.