Halitosis, also called bad breath, is an issue that most people worry about at one time or another. Having good breath gives us the confidence to speak our minds and connect with other people without fear – but what happens when we’re just not sure? The mint and gum industry is massive across the world, and many people choose these products to help add scent to their breath or to cover up odor, but they may not be the healthiest option. Many gums, mints, and breath sprays contain refined sugars, preservatives, artificial colors and flavors, and chemicals that most of us simply don’t want in one of the most vulnerable parts of our bodies. So what do we do to fight bad breath naturally? Drink herbal tea, of course!
Today we’re going to look at several herbs that are known to help fight the cause of bad breath at the source while also adding a subtle and clean natural scent to your breath.
What Causes Bad Breath?
The leading cause of bad breath comes from within the mouth. Food particles and bacteria can build up and cause foul odors. Some forms of halitosis also have their roots in the gut where issues in the stomach or intestines are causing the smell. If you treat your bad breath naturally and don’t see positive changes, talk to your doctor about other internal issues that could be causing the problem.
Since bad breath is caused by bacteria, using gentle, anti-microbial and anti-bacterial herbs can help give the mouth, teeth, gums, and tongue a deep clean without the negative side effects of other products.
Herbs That Stop Bad Breath
Peppermint & Spearmint
These classic herbs add a spicy sweetness to the breath that lasts a long time and is pleasant for most people. Peppermint and spearmint are both synthesized as a flavoring in many gums and mints, but going to the real plant is always best!
Peppermint is a touch antiseptic that can thoroughly cleanse the mouth, teeth, and gums while you sip – getting to the root of halitosis issues for many people. This many people’s go-to herb for bad breath since it fights the cause and leaves a really great scent in the process.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon bark has a sweet, earthy, and spicy scent and flavor that many people love. Next to mint, cinnamon is the next most popular type of breath freshener flavor people choose.
Cinnamon is a natural antiseptic that fights bacteria, viruses, germs, fungus, and yeast. It helps cleanse the mouth and the digestive system so it makes a great addition to any halitosis herbal blend.
Anise
Star anise is sweet and robust. It adds a really clean scent to the breath that lasts.
If you believe that your bad breath is the result of a sluggish digestive system (think: lots of belching), then anise may be the right herbs for you. It helps soothe and activate the digestive system to cut back on burping and bad breath – all while adding a wonderful scent!
Ginger
Ginger is a cleansing herb with a wonderful scent. It’s a spicy treat that many people love, and it makes a really unique addition to any bad breath herbal tea blend. If you have ulcers or canker sores, ginger root may be aggravating.
Thyme
My favorite addition to any herbal tea for bad breath is thyme. I love the taste of this herb in small quantities added to a blend, and the benefits it offers are really amazing.
Thyme is antiseptic, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antibiotic. It’s a super deep cleanser that will help take care of any bacteria or other issues happening in your mouth. You can add thyme to your fresh breath tea blend, or just use it as a daily herbal gargle for some really impressive benefits that you’ll see right away!
Bad Breath Herbal Tea Recipe
I love this recipe – it’s super easy to customize to to your liking and it uses herbs that are really easy to get. I picked up all of my organic herbs for this recipe.
Combine…
3 parts Spearmint or Peppermint
1 part Thyme
1 part Cinnamon
1 small piece of Star Anise
1 part Ginger Root (optional, see below)
Steep a heaping teaspoon in 8-10 ounces of boiled water for about 8 minutes. Separate the herbs from the water and enjoy! This is a wonderful daily tea that will help you get your bad breath under control fast!
If you’re a ginger fan, try replacing the cinnamon with ginger root – or just adding it in a small amount to the blend. It will make the blend spicy and complex, and it will do wonders for a troubled digestive system.
Here’s to clean, confident breath!
Here’s another chance to get your herbs from the same organic supplier I use…
