Halitosis is another name for bad breath, which can be an embarrassing yet common condition. Bacteria in the mouth is the general reason people experience halitosis; however, the cause may stem from other conditions that can include gum disease, sinuses and congestion, digestion, vitamin deficiencies and bad dental care (not brushing tongue and teeth at least twice daily). Typical mouthwash might work, but there are alternative remedies, including everyday foods, that can help reduce halitosis and create a fresher and cleaner mouth.
Avocado
Avocado is a tasty fruit that can decrease halitosis. Frequently, indigestion can be the cause of halitosis, as some foods may remain in the intestines. As the food begins to break down, bacteria from the intestines produces gases that are expelled through the mouth. Eating an avocado helps food decompose in the intestines and eliminate halitosis.
Chew On It
Chew on anise, cardamom or cilantro after each meal. Chewing on a mint leaf or parsley has been used as a bad breath remedy for centuries. Mint and parsley are exceptionally good for bad breath due to onions and garlic. A few parsley sprigs that are dipped in vinegar then chewed is a quick remedy. If you swallow any of these after you chew them, they will continue to work as a digestive aid, which can help reduce halitosis.
Tea
Drinking or gargling with certain teas can aid in reducing bad breath and preventing halitosis. Alfalfa contains chlorophyll, which can reduce halitosis. Peppermint tea is also beneficial to drink. Black and green teas have polyphenols that can stop bacteria growth that leads to bad breath.
Essential Oils
Tea tree oil is a strong disinfectant and can improve halitosis. Other oils that can prevent bad breath include peppermint, almond, clove, lemon and lime. You can use any of these oils by putting a few drops on your toothbrush and brushing your teeth. You can put five or six drops in 4 oz of water and rinse or gargle with it. Essential oils can freshen your breath while keeping bacteria away.
Juices
Juices that are made from fresh raw fruits or vegetables can lessen halitosis. Juices from vegetables such as spinach, alfalfa, carrots, wheat and barley grasses, cilantro, and fruits like apples, oranges, guava, pineapple and papaya aid in reducing halitosis. These fruits and vegetables decrease "bad" bacteria, which can cause bad breath.
Quick Remedies
Rinse your mouth with baking soda. Gargle with a few teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and water. Squeeze half a lemon in water and rinse daily. Rinse with salt water. Of course, one of the best ways to deal with halitosis is to drink water and keep the mouth flushed of bacteria that can cause odor.
References
- Natural Health Remedies; Janet C. Maccaro; 2006
- Giant Book of Kitchen Counter Cures; MS, RD, Colleen Pierre, Karen Cicero, R.D., Colleen Pierre. M.S.; 2004
- Mama's Home Remedies; Svetlana Konnikova and Anna Maria Clement; 2008
