How to Naturally Freshen Your Breath

Slay foul-smelling breath with these helpful tips

From the LifeMinute.TV Team

August 6, 2023

There are many causes for bad breath. In honor of National Fresh Breath Day on August 6, take a natural breath of relief with these potential remedies.

Drink More Water
Dry mouth is often a primary cause of bad breath (halitosis). Drinking water helps keep it away by producing more saliva, which helps clean the tongue and removes food particles from your mouth that feed stinky VSC-producing bacteria (volatile sulfur compounds).

Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient folk remedy that claims to freshen breath and improve oral health. It involves swishing oil around the mouth as you would mouthwash to reduce harmful bacteria by sweeping it away and dissolving it in liquid oil. You can try using coconut or sesame oil. Put approximately a tablespoon in your mouth, swish it through your teeth for roughly 15-20 minutes, spit it out, then rinse with water.

Chomp on Fresh Veggies, Fruits, and Herbs
Bite into a crispy apple or munch on carrot sticks, which increase saliva production, a natural deterrent to stinky breath. Or stash a vitamin C-rich orange in your bag as a go-to snack to help combat it. Herbs like fresh mint and basil can help too. Mint freshens your breath naturally, and basil contains polyphenols that break down sulfur compounds. Add chunks of watermelon (also high in vitamin C) to a pitcher with water and a handful of mint or basil leaves. Chill in the fridge for a few hours, and enjoy.

Kick the Habit
Chemical compounds from smoking and vaping can cause dry mouth. The compounds decrease saliva production, providing them and other bacteria in the mouth the opportunity to thrive. Quitting smoking and vaping can ultimately improve your breath — and overall health.

Rinse with Salt Water
Salt water mouth rinses create a more alkaline oral environment, which helps after acidic meals to reduce plaque and inflammation, and to some extent, may help prevent foul odors. Mix one teaspoon of table salt (less if the mouth is tender) with eight ounces of warm water. Gargle the mixture for 15 to 30 seconds, then spit it out.

Drink While You Drink
Even though alcohol is a liquid, it has a diuretic effect, causing dehydration and less saliva production, leading to a dry mouth where bacteria may grow. Sipping water while imbibing alcohol can help alleviate bad breath. Bonus: Staying hydrated could even reduce hangover symptoms.