Halitosis, or bad breath, is a common health problem that is usually caused by something in your mouth. The Family Doctor website states that food may stick to your teeth and eventually rot, causing a foul smell. Rotten food also encourages bacteria to flourish in your mouth, which can lead to gum disease, or gingivitis. Gingivitis is also known to cause bad breath. Though herbal solutions for halitosis abound, consult your doctor before using them.
Halitosis
According to the Ohio State University Medical Center, there are many possible causes of halitosis, including certain foods, poor dental hygiene, poor cleaning of dentures, periodontal disease, certain medical conditions, tooth decay, infection of the upper respiratory tract, excess unfriendly bacteria in the gut and indigestion. Other factors that may cause halitosis include poor diet, constipation, smoking, diabetes, insufficient protein digestion, liver or kidney malfunction, stress, and an accumulation of toxins within your gastrointestinal tract.
Herbal Solutions
Herbal solutions for halitosis are used to help treat the cause and symptoms of your problem. According to nutrition researcher Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," myrrh, peppermint, rosemary and sage are all herbal remedies that treat bad breath. Parsley, which is rich in chlorophyll, is a beneficial herb in the treatment of halitosis. If gum disease is causing your bad breath, consider using goldenseal. Other helpful herbs include alfalfa, anise, cloves and fennel.
Featured Herb
Myrrh is a commonly used herbal solution for halitosis. Myrrh possesses antiseptic and disinfectant properties and acts as a deodorizer. This herbal remedy helps rid your body of mucus and stimulates your immune system and gastric secretions. Myrrh is well-known for its ability to fight harmful bacteria in your mouth and it is especially helpful for treating halitosis, periodontal disease, skin conditions, asthma, bronchitis, colds, flu, sinusitis and ulcers. The resin from the stems of the myrrh tree is used in certain toothpastes and mouth rinses to help combat halitosis.
Warning
In some cases, halitosis is caused by an underlying health problem that may benefit from conventional or complementary alternative healing methods. If you have bad breath, visit your health care provider for a full evaluation of your problem. A naturopathic physician or botanically-trained medical doctor can help you choose herbal remedies that are safe and appropriate for you and your health problem. Ask your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of herbal medicine before using herbs.
References
- Family Doctor: Halitosis
- Ohio State University Medical Center: Halitosis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
