A white coating on the tongue is usually the result of irritation of the taste buds, or papillae, caused by debris, bacteria or dead cells on the surface of your tongue, according to the Mayo Clinic. The condition is not serious and is easily remedied by brushing or cleaning your tongue, and avoiding activities such as smoking or excessive alcohol use. You can also rinse your mouth with an herbal rinse. Cinnamon and clove have antiseptic properties and will also freshen your breath, according to Linda B. White, medical doctor and author of "The Herbal Drugstore."
Step 1
Combine the cinnamon and clove extract in a small drinking glass. Pour warm tap water into the glass and stir with a spoon.
Step 2
Swish a portion of the cinnamon and clove mixture in your mouth for 10 seconds. Spit and repeat the rinse until you have used all of the mixture in the glass.
Step 3
Brush your teeth with the toothpaste of your choice. Brush your tongue and rinse your mouth with cool water from the tap.
Step 4
Rinse your mouth with the cinnamon and clove mixture and brush your tongue each time you brush your teeth for two weeks.
Tips and Warnings
- A persistent white tongue may be the sign of a more serious condition such as oral thrush, oral lichen planus or syphilis. Consult your physician or dentist if your tongue hurts, the white coating becomes worse or if it does not resolve after two weeks.
Things You'll Need
- 1/2 tsp. cinnamon extract
- 1/2 tsp. clove extract
- Drinking glass
- 8 oz. warm water
- Spoon
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
References
- Mayo Clinic: White Tongue
- "The Herbal Drug Store"; Linda B. White, M.D. et al.; 2000
