If you’ve ever had an abscessed tooth, you already know the kind of pain that makes grown adults cry. Clove oil helps numb it, sure (see our recipe)— and it’s great for temporary relief — but it does not draw out the infection.
What does, shockingly enough, is an old wives’ tale using sunflower kernels.
Not sunflower seeds, not salted shells — the kernels inside.
It sounds crazy until you’ve done it… and then you’ll swear by it forever.
What You Need
- Raw sunflower kernels (unsalted, out of the shell)
- A tiny bit of water
- Or just your mouth (yes, really)
How to Use It
1. Make the poultice
You can do it two ways:
Option A — With Water
Crush the kernels and add just a drop or two of water until they form a thick mush.
Option B — The Appalachian Way
Chew the kernels yourself until they turn into a paste (don’t swallow it).
Both methods work. The goal is simply to make a warm, sticky mash.
2. Pack it against the infected tooth
Take the mush and press it:
- Between your tooth and cheek right over the swollen area
- Or directly over the gumline where the abscess is pushing through
Hold it there as long as you can stand it.
It will start pulling.
You will feel pressure changes.
And then… it’ll begin forming a head.
This can require one to several applications.
3. Spit it out and repeat
If the poultice starts to break down or gets too mushy, spit it out and make a new batch.
Repeat this process:
- until the abscess comes to a head,
- until it drains,
- and until pressure starts to leave the tooth.
You may need to apply it 2–5 times depending on how bad the infection is.
Why Does This Work?
I don't know for sure — even the old folks didn't have an explanation — but sunflower kernels have:
- natural drawing properties
- fatty acids that pull infection upward
- a texture that stays warm and gently holds against the gum
It acts like a natural poultice — the same way bread, flaxseed, or plantain does — but sunflower kernels seem especially strong at pulling dental infection forward.
All I know is:
It works. Fast. Better than almost anything you can buy (short of antibiotics or lancing). I've tried it and it worked for me several times during desperation.
Important Notes
- This does not replace antibiotics if the infection is severe or spreading.
- If you have fever, facial swelling, or trouble swallowing — go to the ER IMMEDIATELY!! Septic is deadly! This is just to help while waiting to get into a dental professional! A professional examination and antibiotics are still needed!
- Use clove oil for pain relief (see my recipe), then use sunflower kernels to pull the infection.
- Rinse with warm salt water afterward to keep the area clean.
Real Talk
This is one of those mountain remedies that sounds too simple to be real — but when your face is swollen and your tooth feels like it’s beating with your heartbeat, you’ll try anything.
And this?
This one actually works.
Please see a dental professional as soon as possible and please go to an ER if you're having fever!
Safety Note: I am NOT a medical professional. Please research ingredients, check for allergies, and confirm pet safety. Use gently and at your discretion.
.png)
