When it comes to freshening our breath, we often resort to commercial mouth fresheners. However, did you know that your kitchen is a treasure trove of natural ingredients that can make your breath feel fresh and clean? From herbs to spices, let’s explore the wonderful world of natural mouth fresheners that are both effective and readily available. Incorporating natural mouth fresheners into your daily routine not only helps keep your breath fresh but also promotes good oral hygiene. The best part? Most of these foods should already be present in your kitchen pantry!
Here are 9 foods that act as natural mouth fresheners:
Fresh herbs:
1. Mint:
Mint leaves are nature’s breath mint! Chewing fresh mint leaves not only cools and freshens your mouth, but also helps neutralize bad odor.
Also read: Finish your meal the right way! Keep this homemade mouth freshener and digestive with you
2. Coriander:
This simple herb contains chlorophyll, which acts as a natural deodorant for your mouth. Chewing a sprig of fresh coriander after meals can help combat bad breath.
Mint leaves give freshness.
Photo Credit: iStock
Citrus fruits:
3. Lemon:
The sour refreshment of lemon is unmatched! Squeeze some lemon juice into a glass of water and swish it around in your mouth to clean and freshen your breath. Be careful not to overdo it, as the sourness of lemon can erode tooth enamel over time.
4. Oranges:
Besides being delicious, oranges can also help freshen your breath. The natural citrus oils found in orange peels have antibacterial properties that can help fight odor-causing bacteria in the mouth.
Spices:
5. Cloves:
Cloves aren’t just for flavouring your tea and food! These tiny spices contain eugenol, a compound known for its antiseptic properties. Chewing cloves can help freshen your breath and soothe toothache.
Also read: Vlogger’s funny reaction to “Mouth Freshener Dosa” goes viral
6. Fennel Seeds:
It is a popular tradition in India to eat fennel or saunf after meals. They not only aid digestion, but they also freshen your breath naturally. Just chew a few fennel seeds after a meal and enjoy the refreshing taste.
7. Cardamom:
Cardamom, with its distinctive aromatic flavour, is another great natural mouth freshener. It contains compounds that help combat bad breath and leave your mouth feeling clean and fresh. Chewing a few cardamom pods after a meal will help freshen your breath.
In India, fennel is commonly consumed after meals.Photo Credit: iStock
Crunchy Vegetables:
8. Carrots:
Cruciferous vegetables like carrots and celery act as natural toothbrushes, removing food particles and plaque from your teeth. Plus, their high water content helps increase saliva production, which is essential for maintaining oral hygiene and preventing bad breath.
9. Baking Soda:
Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate is a versatile ingredient that can be found in almost every kitchen. It acts as a natural deodorant, neutralizing odor caused by bacteria in the mouth. Simply mix a teaspoon of baking soda in water and use it as a mouthwash to freshen your breath.
How to incorporate natural mouth fresheners into your daily routine:
After meals: Chewing fresh herbs such as mint or coriander can help cleanse your palate and freshen your breath after a meal.
Throughout the day: Keep a small container of fennel, cardamom, or cloves with you to freshen your breath whenever you need it.
Before going to bed: Rinse your mouth with a mixture of lemon juice and water, this will kill bacteria and keep your mouth fresh throughout the night.
So, the next time you buy a commercial mouth freshener, consider trying one of these kitchen products.