Tourists visiting Thailand make sure to leave plenty of room in their suitcases because this country offers an impressive selection of unique souvenirs, ranging from sweet treats and spices to handmade jewelry and knick-knacks. Thai cosmetics and personal care products are pretty popular, too. Quite a lot of people prefer herbal toothpastes from Thailand to mass-market dental care products because they are safe and natural.
Thai people have unique oral hygiene traditions that date back to the ancient times. Before tooth brushes and toothpastes became widely available, people in Thailand and other countries of Southeast Asia had used teeth cleaning twigs to keep their teeth clean and prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Such twigs can be obtained from a variety of tree species, the most widely used ones include miswak (Salvadora persica, also known as arak or toothbrush tree) and neem (Azadirachta indica, also known as Indian lilac).
Neem and miswak are noted for their pronounced antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Of course, many people now prefer using toothbrushes to chewing on twigs simply because it’s more convenient. But toothpaste manufacturers have found a way to incorporate the benefits of miswak, neem and other Asian plants into their products. Herbal toothpastes from Thailand are based on plants that have been used in Ayurveda and other traditional medicine systems for centuries and whose effectiveness has been proven by generations.
What are the main benefits of Thai toothpastes with herbs? First and foremost, these toothpastes are valued for their strong whitening effect achieved due to natural ingredients. They are free of abrasive whitening agents that may damage the tooth enamel. Second, Thai toothpastes are rich in herbal extracts and essential oils that have a wide range of useful properties. Plant-derived ingredients help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, eliminate dental plaque and tartar, keep the breath fresh, relieve sore gums and toothache.
Third, toothpastes from Thailand are natural. Most of them are free of synthetic colourants, preservatives, fragrance, emulsifies, surfactants, thickeners, sweeteners, or any other artificial ingredients. That’s why Thai toothpastes are so popular among those who prefer natural and organic cosmetics. Of course, all-natural toothpastes often have an unusual texture but most people quickly get used to it because the effect of Thai toothpastes is well worth it.
Finally, the fourth benefit of Thai toothpastes is that they last very long. They are very high in active ingredients and thus a very small amount of toothpaste (a piece approximately the size of a match head) is enough to clean the teeth and keep the oral cavity healthy and protected. Thai toothpastes are often solid and packaged in small round boxes. To collect toothpaste from the box, you’ll need a special spatula which is usually included in the kit. If there’s no spatula, you can use your toothbrush but first make sure that it is dry.
Common ingredients contained in herbal toothpastes from Thailand include borneol (an organic compound found in camphor and many essential oils), clove essential oil, peppermint essential oil or menthol, mangosteen peel, pineapple extract, sage extract, mango extract, noni extract, coconut extract, etc. They also may contain mineral ingredients such as calcium carbonate and potassium bicarbonate. Some are formulated with bamboo charcoal that has cleansing and absorbent properties. These active ingredients help to take good care of the oral cavity and keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong.
As we’ve already mentioned above, Thai toothpastes are very peculiar and might need some getting used to. That’s why it is recommended that you alternate herbal toothpastes with regular ones at least for the first couple of weeks. If you have any dental problems, you should consult your dentist before using the toothpaste you’ve bought in Thailand. This approach will allow you to make the most of the benefits of natural toothpastes.
So, if we got you interested in Thai toothpastes, you’re probably wondering right now where you can get one. Luckily, there is no need for you to go Thailand to buy toothpaste or any other herbal personal care products. In our online shop Organic Store, you can find a great selection of 100% original herbal toothpastes from Thailand produced by brands such as ISME Rasyan, Prai Thai Herbs, Prim Perfect, Siam Spa, and Wonders. We also offer other Thai cosmetics such as crystal deodorants, soap bars, and BB powder.