While there are too many home remedies for bad breath than can possibly be named, many of them come with little to no support except for word-of-mouth. However, there are some remedies that have been supported by many over the years, and many of them contain sodium in one form or another. Because bad breath is generally a symptom of a problem than a problem in itself, these remedies have not been approved by the FDA or even tested in major clinical studies, so talk with your doctor before starting any new treatment, particularly if you are taking any medications or have allergies.
Sodium Bicarbonate and Filtered Water
According to Jetrho Kloss, author of "Back to Eden: The Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Foods, and Home Remedies Since 1939," sodium bicarbonate and filtered water can be used to help get rid of bad breath. To make this mixture, combine 1 tsp. sodium bicarbonate with 6 oz. filtered water and stir until the sodium bicarbonate dissolves. Drink this mixture twice per day after meals, preferably after breakfast and dinner. Larger portions can be prepared in advance and kept in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours, though you may need to stir the mixture before each use to make sure the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Lemon Juice, Water and Table Salt
According to Bill Gottlieb, author of "Alternative Cures: More than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies," a mixture of natural lemon juice, water and table salt can be consumed in order to help stop bad breath. To make and use this mixture, squeeze the juice of one lemon into an 8 oz. glass of filtered water and add ¼ tsp. table salt. Stir the mixture thoroughly to dissolve the table salt. This mixture can be consumed once per day, ideally after meals to prevent any sort of stomach discomfort. Larger portions can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 72 hours as long as you stir it before drinking each glass.
Table Salt, Peppermint Essential Oil and Sunflower Oil
According to Vasant Lad, author of "The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies," a mixture of table salt, peppermint essential oil and sunflower oil can be consumed to help get rid of bad breath. To make and use this mixture, combine ½ tsp. table salt, ½ tsp. peppermint essential oil and 4 tbsp. sunflower oil in a small container and stir thoroughly to dissolve the salt. Consume the mixture over the course of one day, following meals to help prevent bad breath from forming. This treatment can be used for up to one month, and unused portions can be kept in a cool, dark place for up to 14 days if necessary.
References
- "Back to Eden: The Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Foods, and Home Remedies Since 1939"; Jethro Kloss; 2004
- "Alternative Cures: More than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies"; Bill Gottlieb; 2008
- "The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Home Remedies"; Vasant Lad; 1999
