Would you be surprised to learn that as many as 1 in 10 people currently suffer from chronic bad breath?
Yes, there are just a few things more socially awkward than having to keep a lid on your mouth (literally) all the time, for fear of being repulsive. Bad breath can actually interfere with your personal and professional relationships, and is a condition that can impact social interactions and self-esteem. The good news, however, there are effective, natural remedies that can be employed to alleviate this problem, in whole or in part.
Clinically referred to as “halitosis,” chronic bad breath that persists over time may indicate underlying health issues. Unlike transient bad breath, which may result from consuming certain foods or poor oral hygiene, halitosis represents a persistent, unpleasant odor from the mouth that returns even after chewing gum or mints. Although halitosis is unpleasant and is not likely to represent a threatening medical condition, it has indicated more complicated health problems in a few cases.
The causes of chronic halitosis are multifaceted. One primary factor is the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth, particularly on the tongue and between the teeth. These bacteria produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), such as hydrogen sulphide and methyl mercaptan — that smell like rotten eggs and dying cabbage. Poor dental hygiene, such as infrequent brushing or flossing, can exacerbate this issue by allowing food particles to linger, further fueling bacterial growth.
Another contributing factor is dry mouth, medically known as xerostomia. Saliva plays a crucial role in cleansing the mouth and neutralizing acids produced by plaque. When saliva production is insufficient, bacteria thrive, leading to bad breath. Dry mouth can result from various causes, including certain medications, salivary gland disorders, or habitual mouth breathing.
Additionally, chronic halitosis may be a symptom of systemic health problems. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), for instance, can cause stomach acids to flow back into the esophagus and mouth, carrying with them a pungent odor. Similarly, diseases such as diabetes, liver or kidney failure, and respiratory tract infections can manifest as bad breath due to the metabolic processes involved or the presence of infection.
A review published in the Canadian Dental Association Journal cites probiotic therapy as beneficial for dental caries, periodontal disease and halitosis through colonization of the oral cavity. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that benefit your health. Many use probiotics — which are found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir and sauerkraut, as well as supplements, to aid in digestive health. Probiotics encourage the good bacteria in your gut to grow, leaving less room for the bad. Similarly, both good and bad bacteria reside in your mouth.
Researchers continue to explore how probiotics can impact your oral health, including bad breath. Their study found that S. salivarius is known to produce bacteriocins, which could contribute to reducing the number of bacteria that produce volatile sulphur compounds. The use of gum or lozenges containing S. salivarius K12 probiotics reduced levels of volatile sulphur compounds among patients diagnosed with halitosis. (Probiotics For Oral Health: Myth or Reality? cda-adc; October 2009, Vol. 75, No. 8)
Addressing chronic halitosis often requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on both oral hygiene and the treatment of any underlying health conditions. However, herbal, probiotic and do-it-yourself remedies can compliment medical treatment and provide relief.
Commonly Used Natural Remedies Include:
Cinnamon
Is it a coincidence that many products sold for treating bad breath include cinnamon? Not at all, but rather because of its proven track record on the uncomfortable condition. In fact, cinnamon is effective in treating bad breath via two methods:
- It is naturally a very pleasant smelling spice, which easily masks foul odors.
- Cinnamon is a natural anti-septic that inhibits bacterial multiplication in the mouth, allowing your breath to stay fresher, longer.
To make best use of cinnamon as a remedy for bad breath, boil one tablespoon of the powdered spice in a cup of water, allow to cool then store for use as a mouth rinse, twice daily.
Clove
Cloves possess a very distinct aroma, and have been used successfully for centuries in the treatment of bad breath. Like cinnamon, clove has natural anti-bacterial properties that inhibit the growth of odor producing bacteria in the mouth.
Just a few pieces of cloves can be put in the mouth and chewed to get rid of halitosis. You can also make your own clove tea. Add a few cloves to boiling water and leave to brew. Remove the cloves and you can either drink the tea or use as a mouthwash.
Green Tea
As an herbal remedy, green tea is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols and can help reduce the growth of the bacteria responsible for bad breath. Drinking several cups of green tea throughout the day or using it as a mouthwash can freshen the breath and offer antibacterial benefits.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek is a relatively unheard of herb, whose parts can be used for a variety of purposes, including its ability to treat bad breath of a particular origin – mucus or catarrh. Fenugreek helps to effectively thin catarrh secretions, and prevent bacterial overgrowth in the mouth and throat. Specifically, infected green catarrh typically associated with nasal discharge when ill (that frequently drips down into the back of the throat). This discharge is particularly offensive, and is a perfect breeding ground for all sorts of bacteria.
For this particular use, one teaspoon of ground seeds need to be boiled in a cup of water, then strained to retain the solution. Drinking just once cup a day is usually enough to improve discomfort and odor you may experience.
Another remedy involves the use of essential oils. Oils such as peppermint, tea tree, and eucalyptus have antimicrobial properties and can be added to water to create a homemade mouthwash. A few drops in a glass of water can provide a refreshing rinse that combats the bacteria causing halitosis.
Apple cider vinegar is another popular home remedy. Its acidic nature can help balance the pH levels in the mouth, creating an environment less hospitable to odor-causing bacteria. Gargling with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water before brushing can aid in this balancing act.
Chewing on fresh herbs such as parsley, mint, or cilantro can also be beneficial. These herbs contain chlorophyll, which has deodorizing properties, and their fresh scent can temporarily mask bad breath. Additionally, the act of chewing stimulates saliva production, which, as mentioned earlier, is vital for oral health.
Hydration is also key in the fight against bad breath. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain saliva flow and wash away food particles and bacteria. This is especially important for individuals who suffer from dry mouth.
In conclusion
chronic halitosis is a complex condition with various potential causes, ranging from oral hygiene issues to systemic health problems. While addressing the root cause is essential, herbal remedies can play a supportive role in managing the condition. These natural solutions, from green tea to essential oils, offer a gentle and accessible means to freshen breath and improve oral health.
There are additional natural remedies that can be used to treat a case of bad breath, from bloodroot, myrrh, sage to even just plain water. While they all accomplish the goal of reducing bad breath, they primarily do so by masking the root cause. Other variables, such as your diet, presence of any health conditions or overall oral hygiene all play a role in determining your best route of action.
It’s important to remember that persistent bad breath should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any serious underlying conditions and to receive appropriate treatment. A visit to your dentist is highly recommended as there may be dental problems like gum disease that contribute to you bad breath. Combining professional advice with these herbal remedies, including probiotics, can lead to a long lasting fresher breath, a healthier mouth, and less need to buy cover-up products.
