Heart Attack

Research shows that people with gum disease are 25% more likely to have a heart attack. Bacteria originating from gums to veins and arteries cause plaque build up and arterial inflammation that can provoke jeopardous clotting. A 12-year study conducted by Harvard University researchers and 41,000 healthy men free of cardiovascular disease showed that those with periodontal disease had more clot related strokes.

Diabetes

Periodontal disease severely affects control of blood sugars. The spread of bacteria through out body through blood stream stresses and confuses body when trying to adjust sugars to invasion. Antibiotic treatment has help diabetics control blood sugars while treating infections caused by gum disease.

Lung Infections

Breathing in oral bacteria caused by gum disease can cause lung infections. Bacteria that grow in oral cavities can be breathed into lungs to cause respiratory disease such as pneumonia.

To make an herbally infused oil: In a saucepan, combine dry herbs and a vegetable oil (we like olive, but just about any kind will do). Specific proportions are not important – use a few generous handfuls of herbs and use enough oil to cover them. Heat over lowest possible heat for several hours – three minimum, we usually try for 12 or 15 – alternatively, use a crock-pot on “low” setting. Strain out herbs and use your herbally infused oil to make balms, or as a massage oil, bath oil, or as a great winter moisturizer. Herbs to try: chamomile, comfrey, plantain, St. John’s Wort, calendula.