Bad breath is uncomfortable for those affected and those around them. If diseases are excluded, home remedies can freshen your breath.
Bad breath usually arises directly in the oral cavity and is usually harmless. There are 800 to 1000 types of bacteria in the oral flora, most of them on the surface of the tongue. They break down food residues and dead cells in the mucous membrane. This can release substances that smell unpleasant.
Bacteria have a particularly easy job when oral hygiene is neglected and the oral flora is out of balance as a result. Certain foods like onions or garlic can also cause bad breath. Those who drink too little are often also affected. If diseases are excluded, the following remedies against bad breath can help.
Drink enough
A dry mouth, such as that caused by stress, can cause bad smells. The reduced flow of saliva can be compensated for by drinking water.
Eat an apple
After a meal with onions or garlic, an apple can help against the flag. The fruit contains antibacterial plant substances that are good for the oral flora.
Soda in the water
Baking soda neutralizes acids. This removes the breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. Simply dissolve a teaspoon of powder in a glass of water, rinse with the mixture and gargle.
Ten minutes of oil pulling
Oil pulling is done before brushing your teeth. Cold-pressed olive or coconut oil is suitable for this. Two teaspoons of oil is enough – it is chewed and pulled through the spaces between the teeth. Then you spit the oil into a kitchen towel, dispose of it and rinse your mouth with warm water.
Chew herbs and spices
Chewing a few fresh stalks of parsley is especially helpful for bad breath. The herb contains odor-binding chlorophyll and essential oils. Mint and dill are also recommended. Chewing cloves and fennel seeds can also help.
Chewing gum with xylitol
There is no toothbrush to hand on the go. Chewing gum after eating can be an alternative. Chewing removes food scraps and toppings. The flow of saliva is stimulated and the bacteria that cause odor are washed away. Essential oils also mask the smell. Xylitol is used to prevent caries.
Rinse with tea
Different types of tea such as sage and chamomile tea are ideal as a mouthwash. The polyphenols contained in it inhibit bacterial growth.