Holistic Ingredients Guide

Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. Whether you're a longtime reader or just discovering this space, I hope today's post brings clarity and confidence to your journey. This week, we’re exploring a topic that comes up often in my community: natural toothpaste. The market is flooded with options that promise pearly whites, fresh breath, and cavity protection; but few people stop to question what’s actually in their toothpaste and how those ingredients affect their body as a whole.

If you're on a journey toward holistic health, you know that oral care is more than just brushing your teeth. It's about supporting the ecosystem of the mouth, which plays a vital role in digestion, immunity, and overall vitality. Your oral microbiome communicates directly with your gut and your brain. What you put in your mouth matters deeply, not just for your teeth, but for your entire system.

Whether you're navigating ingredient labels, trying to avoid toxic exposures, or simply seeking a more intuitive and aligned approach to oral care, this FAQ is here to guide you with clarity and care.

Common Problematic Ingredients

Many mainstream toothpaste formulas contain synthetic chemicals, preservatives, or additives that may be irritating or disruptive to your oral microbiome. Ingredients of concern include:

• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): A common foaming agent used to create lather. While it helps spread toothpaste across the teeth, it can irritate oral tissues and increase sensitivity for some individuals (Kill Rate: ~Moderate, Risk: Moderate, EWG: 3).

• Triclosan: Once popular for reducing plaque, this antibacterial agent has been banned in many products due to concerns over hormone disruption and antibiotic resistance (Kill Rate: >99%, Risk: High, EWG: 7).

• Artificial Sweeteners (Saccharin, Sucralose, Aspartame): Used to enhance flavor without sugar, these compounds may disrupt gut microbiota and metabolic balance (Risk: High, EWG: 3–4).

• Artificial Colors and Flavors: Designed to make toothpaste more appealing, these synthetic additives have been linked to hyperactivity in children and allergic reactions (Risk: High, EWG: 4).

• Propylene Glycol: A synthetic humectant that prevents toothpaste from drying out, but may cause mucosal irritation in sensitive individuals (Risk: Moderate, EWG: 3).

• Parabens: Preservatives used to prolong shelf life; they mimic estrogen in the body and are associated with hormone disruption (Risk: High, EWG: 7).

• DEA (Diethanolamine): Added for foaming and texture, DEA may react with other substances to form carcinogens and is considered a high-risk ingredient (Risk: High, EWG: 10).

• FD&C Dyes: Synthetic colorants added for aesthetic purposes, often derived from petroleum and associated with behavioral issues in sensitive populations (Risk: High, EWG: 4).

• Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives: These compounds extend shelf life but slowly release formaldehyde, a known carcinogen (Risk: High, EWG: 7).

• Gluten: Sometimes used as a binder, gluten may cause reactions in those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity (Risk: Moderate, EWG: 3).

• Benzyl Alcohol: A preservative and solvent that can trigger allergic responses or mucosal irritation in some individuals (Risk: High, EWG: 5).

This list highlights ingredients that may pose risks to your oral environment or systemic health—not because they don’t work to clean the teeth, but because they often come with trade-offs that can disrupt healing or microbial balance.

Controversial Ingredients

These ingredients are often found in both conventional and some “natural” products. Their safety depends on formulation, sourcing, and individual constitution. Some of the most debated are considered controversial due to ongoing debates about their safety and effectiveness. These include:

• Fluoride: Often included to remineralize enamel and reduce decay, fluoride hardens the outer enamel surface but does not strengthen from within. Overexposure has been linked to fluorosis and neurotoxicity concerns, particularly in children (Risk: Moderate to High, EWG: 5).

• Titanium Dioxide: Commonly used to whiten toothpaste and improve appearance, this pigment can raise concerns in its nanoparticle form due to potential cellular penetration (RDA: 50, Risk: Moderate, EWG: 3).

• Nano-Hydroxyapatite (n-HA): A synthetic version of tooth mineral designed to mimic natural enamel. Although promising, nano-sized particles raise concerns about absorption and cellular interaction (Risk: High, EWG: ~4).

• Xylitol: A sugar alcohol that helps prevent cavities by inhibiting bacteria, but it may contribute to microbiome imbalance in some individuals and is often highly processed (Kill Rate: ~80%, Risk: Good, EWG: 2).

• Glycerin: A humectant that helps maintain moisture. Previously thought to coat the teeth and block remineralization, newer insights suggest it has a neutral effect (Risk: Good, EWG: 2).

• Sorbitol: A sugar alcohol used to keep products from drying out. While generally considered safe, it may encourage bacterial imbalance in certain oral environments (Risk: Good, EWG: 2).

• Silica and Hydrated Silica: Used as polishing agents, their abrasiveness varies widely. When derived from Zeolite, they are gentler and support detoxification, but other forms may be too harsh for sensitive enamel (RDA: up to 100, Risk: Moderate, EWG: 3).

• Alcohol: Occasionally included for antimicrobial properties, alcohol can be drying and disruptive to the oral microbiome when used frequently (Kill Rate: ~70%, Risk: High, EWG: 5).

• Calcium Carbonate: A natural abrasive that helps remove plaque. Its safety depends on particle size—larger or uneven particles may scratch enamel (RDA: ~90, Risk: Good, EWG: 2).

Benefits of Using Natural Toothpaste

Choosing natural toothpaste offers several advantages over conventional options:

• Avoidance of Harsh Chemicals: Natural toothpaste typically avoids synthetic preservatives, detergents, and dyes that can irritate the mouth or pose systemic risks.

• Gentle for Sensitive Mouths: The ingredients are often less abrasive and more biocompatible, making them suitable for people with gum sensitivity, enamel erosion, or allergies.

• Supports the Oral Microbiome: Many natural formulations are designed to maintain microbial harmony rather than eradicate bacteria, which helps protect long-term oral health.

• Eco-Conscious Formulas: Natural brands often use biodegradable ingredients and sustainable packaging, reducing environmental impact.

Supportive Ingredients to Look For

If you're looking for supportive ingredients in natural toothpaste, consider these options. Each one has been chosen for its gentle nature, low systemic risk, and alignment with a healthy oral microbiome:

• Hydroxyapatite (non-nano or micro): A biomimetic mineral that supports enamel repair and reduces sensitivity (Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Calcium Phosphate: A remineralizing agent that helps strengthen enamel by delivering essential minerals (RDA: ~70, Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate): A mild abrasive that helps clean and whiten teeth while neutralizing acids (RDA: ~70, Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Prebiotics: Nourish beneficial bacteria in the mouth, helping to support a balanced and resilient oral microbiome (Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Gentle Essential Oils (Cardamom, Lemon, Frankincense, Sweet Orange, Tangerine, Rose, Neroli): Provide fresh flavor and mild aromatic support without disrupting the oral flora (Kill Rate: <50%, Risk: Good, EWG: 1–2).

• Zeolite-Based Hydrated Silica: A gentle abrasive sourced from volcanic mineral zeolite, used for detoxification and plaque removal (RDA: ~80, Risk: Moderate, EWG: 3).

• Aloe Vera: A soothing and anti-inflammatory plant extract that supports gum healing and tissue regeneration (Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Bamboo Powder: A gentle polishing agent rich in silica, which helps detoxify and clean without damaging enamel (RDA: ~50, Risk: Good, EWG: 2).

• Beeswax: Used as a natural thickener and emollient to enhance texture and stability in formulations (Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Calendula: A healing botanical that soothes inflammation and supports oral tissue repair (Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): A potent antioxidant that supports cellular energy and promotes healthy gums (Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Menthol (from gentle EO sources): A cooling agent with mild antimicrobial properties, helps freshen breath and reduce irritation (Kill Rate: ~40%, Risk: Good, EWG: 2).

• Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): A sulfur-rich compound that supports healing and reduces inflammation in tissues (Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Quillaja Saponaria Extract: A plant-based foaming agent that helps cleanse without irritating the mouth (Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Seabuckthorn Oil: Rich in omega fatty acids and antioxidants, this oil helps support tissue repair and soothe sensitive areas (Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Stevia: A natural sweetener derived from plant leaves, safe for teeth and free from synthetic additives (Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

These ingredients support the teeth, tissues, and terrain of the mouth while respecting the body's natural healing rhythms.

Higher Kill Rate Botanicals for Short-Term Use

Before diving into this section, it's important to remember that not all bacteria in the mouth are harmful. Many are protective and essential to maintaining balance within the oral microbiome. When imbalances arise, the goal is not eradication but gentle support for recalibration.

The botanicals below have stronger antimicrobial activity and may be helpful in temporary or symptom-specific applications, especially during times of inflammation or microbial overgrowth. These should be used intentionally and sparingly, as part of a broader effort to restore harmony without disrupting the natural terrain. These are recommended for short-term use only.

• Green Tea Extract: Offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support. Its antimicrobial properties are modest but reach the 50% threshold, making it ideal for short-term balancing of oral bacteria during inflammatory states (Kill Rate: ~50%, Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Licorice Root Extract: While often thought of as gentle, licorice root has demonstrated a moderate antimicrobial effect that can shift oral flora when used regularly. Best used short-term to support gum healing or inflammation recovery (Kill Rate: ~50%, Risk: Good, EWG: 1).

• Propolis: Antimicrobial and healing (Kill Rate: ~70%, Risk: Good, EWG: 1)

• Cinnamon Oil: Strongly antimicrobial, supports gum health but may irritate if overused (Kill Rate: ~80%, Risk: Good, EWG: 2)

• Tea Tree Oil: Powerful antifungal and antibacterial oil best reserved for acute use (Kill Rate: ~85%, Risk: Moderate, EWG: 3)

• Myrrh Oil: Astringent and cleansing, useful in gum blends (Kill Rate: ~70%, Risk: Good, EWG: 2)

• Peppermint Oil: Popular for flavor and breath freshness but may be too strong for some daily use (Kill Rate: ~60%, Risk: Good, EWG: 2)

• Neem: Traditionally used for its strong antibacterial properties in Ayurvedic oral care (Kill Rate: ~70%, Risk: Good, EWG: ~2)

• Clove Oil: Highly antimicrobial and numbing, useful for pain relief (Kill Rate: ~80%, Risk: Good, EWG: 2)

Use with intention, ideally under the guidance of a practitioner, and always listen to how your body responds

Final Thoughts

Understanding what’s in your toothpaste is only the beginning. What matters most is how those ingredients interact with your body, your oral terrain, and your healing process. While some ingredients are supportive for daily use, others are best used during times of imbalance or healing. This is about working with the body, not against it.

True oral health is deeply connected to systemic health. When you shift away from conventional oral care products, it’s not uncommon to notice changes that were previously masked. Sensitivities may arise. Coatings may lift. The oral microbiome may begin to speak in new ways. Rather than fear these shifts, I invite you to view them as invitations. Your body is asking to be heard. To be supported. To be realigned.

My goal is to help you step out of the cycle of dependency on aggressive ingredients, marketing claims, and rigid routines. I want you to feel confident creating a routine that resonates with your own rhythm. When you support the body with nourishment, intention, and presence, your mouth becomes a reflection of your overall vitality.

For those following me on Substack or inside the private Facebook group Holistic Health and Biological Dentistry, you receive weekly product reviews of toothpaste brands and weekly Highlight One Ingredient breakdowns. These tools are offered to help you tune in to what aligns and let go of what doesn’t.

Take a breath. Tune in. What is your mouth asking for today?