Before attempting to treat bad breath with herbs, it is important to rule out the possibility of a more serious underlying medical condition. Chronic bad breath can be a sign of periodontal disease, respiratory infection, diabetes, or disorders of the kidney, liver or gastrointestinal system. In these cases, the more serious medical problem must be addressed in order to put an end to the bad breath. Herbal remedies are appropriate for cases of bad breath caused by less serious issues, like eating garlic, or forgetting to use a toothbrush in the morning.
Chew Some Fresh Herbs
The leaves of certain culinary herbs can be chewed as a safe remedy for bad breath. Parsley, basil and cilantro are rich in chlorophyll, which, according to a May 9, 2006, article in the "New York Times," has the ability to mask bad breath. Chlorophyll does not, however, kill bacteria that cause bad breath.
American Dietetic Association spokesperson Keri M. Gans has also recommended spearmint, rosemary and eucalyptus as herbs that can be chewed to eliminate bad breath. She specifies that they should be chewed for 30 to 60 seconds.
Try a Tincture
Professional herbalists have recommended diluted eucalyptus oil tinctures in the treatment of bad breath, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Eucalyptus oil contains cineole, also known as eucalyptol. Cineole is a clear, oily liquid that is a potent bacteria killing antiseptic and is used in pharmaceutical preparations.
Eucalyptus tinctures are available at natural foods retailers. Diluted with water, eucalyptus tinctures can be used like a mouthwash.
Cineole is also present as an active constituent of the culinary herb cardamom. Cardamom tinctures can be used in the same way as eucalyptus tinctures.
Have Some Tea
Bad breath is often caused by microbial putrefaction, which creates volatile sulfur compounds in the mouth. Polyphenols are substances found in tea, which have been shown to have an antimicrobial effect.
Scientists at the University of British Columbia found that green tea reduces the volatile sulfur compounds found in bad breath, and that it is more effective than toothpaste, mints, chewing gum or parsley seed oil in deodorizing and disinfecting the mouth.
The Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine states that a strong tea made of the herbs echinacea, myrrh and bloodroot can be used as a daily mouthwash. These herbs can be purchased at natural foods retailers, combined and brewed to the desired strength.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Eucalyptus
- Natural Health: Freshen Your Mouth With Herbs And Simple Dietary Changes
- Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine: Halitosis
- World Conference on Preventative Dentistry: The Effects of Chinese Herbs on Halitosis-Correlated Bacteria
- "New York Times"; Potent Parsley; C. Claiborne Ray; May 9, 2006
