Oral hygiene is not just about daily brushing. Medicinal plants can be reliable allies in maintaining gum health, eliminating bacteria, and refreshing breath, without alcohol or aggressive substances. Homemade herbal mouthwash is gentle, effective, and easy to make.
Main Ingredients and Their Roles
- Sage – antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, protects gums
- Mint – refreshes breath, has a mild antiseptic effect
- Chamomile – soothes oral irritations and has a healing effect
- Cloves – antibacterial, antiseptic, reduce bad breath
- Baking soda (optional) – alkalizes the oral environment, neutralizing acids
Quick Herbal Mouthwash Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon dried sage leaves
- 1 tablespoon dried mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon dried chamomile
- 2 cloves (crushed)
- 400 ml water
- (optional) 1/2 tablespoon baking soda
- (optional) 2 drops essential oil of mint or sage
Preparation Method:
- Boil the water and pour it over the dried herbs and cloves in a covered container.
- Let it steep for 15-20 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and let it cool completely.
- Add the baking soda and essential oil, mixing well.
- Pour into a dark bottle and store in the refrigerator (maximum 3-4 days).
Benefits – How It Works and How to Use It
1. Refreshing Breath
Mint and cloves act quickly on unpleasant odors in the oral cavity, leaving a feeling of natural freshness. The volatile oils mask and simultaneously reduce sulfur compounds produced by bacteria.
Rinse your mouth with 1-2 tablespoons for 30 seconds, twice a day.
2. Fighting Bacteria and Preventing Inflammation
Sage has proven antibacterial effects, useful in preventing gum bleeding and mild infections. Cloves and baking soda help maintain a healthy pH and inhibit microbial growth in the oral cavity.
Regular use can reduce the risk of gingivitis and bad breath.
3. Soothing Irritated Mucosa and Inflamed Gums
Chamomile, with its content of azulene and bisabolol, has a calming and healing effect, making it suitable for people with sensitive gums or minor injuries.
Recommended after brushing or using dental floss, especially for those with slightly irritated gums.
Contraindications and Recommendations
- Do not swallow – it is for external use only.
- Contraindicated for individuals allergic to the mentioned plants (especially Asteraceae – chamomile).
- Does not replace dental brushing, but complements it.
- For children under 6 years, a version without essential oils and with a reduced amount of cloves is recommended.
Sources:
- Sage (Salvia officinalis): antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, Journal of Herbal Medicine, 2022
- Essential oils in oral health: a review, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2020
- Plant-based mouth rinses in oral care, Clinical Oral Investigations, 2019
- Romanian phytotherapy guide, Prof. Dr. C. Milic, 2016
