Dental care is often overlooked, but even the slightest neglect can lead to significant problems. One of the most common issues is cavities, which are not only painful but can also be expensive and time-consuming to treat. While dental procedures can be costly, there is a natural and effective solution available in Ayurveda: turmeric. Known for its powerful antibacterial and antiseptic properties, turmeric has long been used in traditional medicine for various health benefits, including oral health.

The magical effects of turmeric

Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which is renowned for its ability to reduce inflammation and fight infections. Acting as a natural antibiotic, it helps eliminate bacterial infections in the teeth, making it a potent remedy for cavities. Regular use of turmeric can help reduce the damage caused by cavities and prevent further dental issues.

How to use turmeric and oil for cavity treatment?

One of the most effective ways to combat tooth decay is by combining turmeric with coconut oil. Here’s how you can use this powerful duo for healthier teeth.

Ingredients needed:

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon coconut oil
• A pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix the turmeric powder and coconut oil in a bowl until you get a smooth paste.
2. Add a pinch of salt, if desired.
3. Apply this mixture directly to the affected tooth and leave it for 10-15 minutes.
4. Rinse your mouth with warm water after the treatment.
5. Repeat this process twice daily for the best results.

Other natural remedies for cavities

Besides turmeric, there are a few other home remedies that can help treat cavities and promote overall dental health:

• Clove Oil: Clove oil is highly effective in relieving tooth pain and preventing infections. It can be applied directly to the affected area using cotton wool.
• Salt and Mustard Oil: A mixture of salt and mustard oil can be used to massage the gums. This not only helps in eliminating cavities but also strengthens the gums.
• Neem Leaves: Chewing neem leaves or gargling with neem leaf extract can eliminate bacteria and promote healthy teeth and gums.

Additional benefits of turmeric

Turmeric is not only beneficial for fighting cavities but also offers several other advantages for oral health:

• Teeth Whitening: Turmeric can help whiten and brighten your teeth when used regularly.
• Reducing Gum Inflammation: It has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and inflammation in the gums.
• Fresher Breath: Turmeric’s antiseptic qualities can help eliminate bad breath and promote fresher-smelling breath.

Precautions

While turmeric is beneficial, it should not be left on the teeth for prolonged periods as it may cause yellow stains.
If your dental issue is severe, it’s always a good idea to consult with a dentist before relying solely on home remedies.

Using turmeric and coconut oil as a natural solution for cavities is not only affordable but also incredibly effective. With regular use, you can maintain healthy teeth and avoid costly dental procedures. Make turmeric a part of your daily routine for a brighter smile and healthier teeth.

India saw a single-day rise of 313 new Covid cases, while the active caseload has declined to 2,041, the health ministry said on Saturday.  Three deaths: two from Karnataka and one from Maharashtra were reported in the last 24 hours.

According to the ministry website, the number of active cases in the country stood at 2,331 on Friday. The number of cases of Covid had dropped to double digits till December 5, but it began to start increasing after the emergence of a new variant and cold weather conditions.

 According to reports after December 5, the highest single day rise of 841new cases was reported on December 31, 2023, which is 0.2% of the peak cases reported in May 2021. Of the total active cases, a large majority of these (around 92%) are recovering under home isolation.

The currently available data suggests that the JN.1 variant is neither leading to an exponential rise in the new cases nor a rise in the hospitalization and mortality. India has witnessed three waves of Covid in the past with its peak incidence of daily new cases and deaths being reported during the delta wave in April June 2021.

 At its peak, 414,188 new cases and 3915 deaths were reported on May 7, 2021. Since the pandemic started in early 2020, there have have been 4.5 crore people who have got infected and this has resulted in the death of 5.3 lakh persons in a total time span of four years.

According to the ministry data, the total number of persons who have recuperated from the disease are 4.4 crore with total recovery rate recorded is 98.81%. A total number of 220.67 crore doses of Covid vaccines have been administered in India so far.  

India recorded 605 fresh COVID-19 cases and four deaths in the last 24 hours. The active cases have increased to 4002, while India’s overall COVID case tally stands at over 4.5 crore (4,50,18,792). The death toll was recorded at 5,33,396 with four new deaths – two from Kerala and one each in Karnataka and Tripura – reported in the last 24 hours, the data updated at 8am stated.

The number of people who have recovered from the disease has gone up to 4,44,81,341, an increase of 648 since Sunday morning. In Kerala a 70 year-old male with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and 81year-old male with T2DM and HTN, and in Karnataka, a 48 year old male with CA and TB died, while one person in Tripura succumbed to COVID.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) reported that 11,838 doses of the vaccine had been administered in the country till January 7. The data is a compilation of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (National Centre for Disease Control), media bulletins and websites of various states at 8am on January 4.

As the winter season sets in, health experts are highlighting a sudden surge in viral infections, influenza, and COVID-19 cases. Dr Nikhil Modi, a senior pulmonologist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, pointed out that the decrease in temperature leads to increase in moisture in the air, low wind speed and also causes an increase in pollution levels. This contributes highly to various infections.

Due to the decrease in temperature the fog combines with the pollution in the air which further leads to the formation of smog. This condition of the atmosphere can cause different types of infections and difficulty in breathing. Both the state and the central government are keeping a close watch on the new Omicron Subvariant JN.1. J.N.1 is a Variant of Interest (VOI) which is under intense scientific scrutiny.