Try Mouthwash with Essential Oils
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Have you heard of biofilm?
Biofilm is a gooey substance that can form on any surface containing water and is exposed to bacteria. You can find biofilm on surfaces like sinks, countertops, cutting boards and yes, even inside your own mouth - Yuck!
Biofilm on your teeth can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease so it’s important to take the necessary preventative measures.
Luckily we can prevent biofilm from forming by practicing good oral care including the use of mouthwash. Mouthwash is a great way to leave your mouth feeling nice and clean while also combating cavities and gum disease. It can also help prevent plaque from building up on your teeth and gums. Plaque is a type of yellowish biofilm that can form on the surface of your teeth and negatively affect your oral health.
What type of mouthwash is best for you?
A mouthwash with antibacterial ingredients can help but it’s important to choose the right one for you. A fluoride mouthwash can help prevent cavities while one that is alcohol-based or containing chlorhexidine can help prevent gum disease.
Mouthwash with Essential Oils
Why not try making your own mouthwash! A homemade mouthwash with essential oils is a good alternative since you can control the amount of alcohol that is used in the formula. Natural ingredients like peppermint, cinnamon, and clove are also good for you and can be used to serve different purposes, like combating bad breath and even healing cold sores.
Benefits of Homemade Mouthwash
- Contains less irritants and harsh ingredients
- Less or no alcohol
- Inexpensive
- Easy to make
While mouthwash can keep your breath smelling nice, it’s important to remember that these effects are short-lived. Mouthwash should never be used as a substitute for regular brushing and flossing. It should always be performed in conjunction with your regular oral hygiene routine.
Herbal Mouthwash recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of rum or vodka (for tincture)
- 1 tsp dried cloves or clove powder
- 2 tablespoons dried Peppermint Leaf
- 2 tablespoons dried Plantain Leaf
- 1 Tablespoon Rosemary Leaf
- 15 drops of Cinnamon or Peppermint Essential Oil (or more to preference-optional)
Instructions
- Place herbs in a pint size mason jar. Pour enough boiling water over herbs to just dampen all of them. (this helps release the properties of the herbs).
- Pour the rum or vodka into the jar with the herbs and hot water.
- Cover tightly and put in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks. Each day, shake the jar to help the herbs infuse into the alcohol mixture.
- After 2-3 weeks, use cheesecloth or a very fine mesh strainer to strain the herbs out of the tincture. Discard the herbs and pour the tincture into small dropper bottles or other glass jar to store.
- Add the essential oils, return lid and shake well.
Source: Wellness Mama
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