Homemade Mouthwash with Essential Oils

January 8, 2021

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Mouthwash is a rinse that is used to kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. It is not intended to be swallowed. According to the American Dental Association, there are two main types of mouthwash: cosmetic and therapeutic.

The therapeutic version can be purchased both over-the-counter and by prescription and many may help control plaque, gingivitis, bad breath, and tooth decay. Cosmetic mouthwash, or mouth rinse, can help temporarily by staving off bad breath, but usually there is no other benefit ‚ so it’s almost like a minty chewing gum, only as a rinse. (1)

Is mouthwash safe to use? While you don’t swallow it, anything that touches the skin or body can get absorbed. Some over-the-counter mouthwash options contain ingredients that can cause organ system toxicity, for example.

The active ingredient, methyl salicylate, in many commercial mouthwashes may cause developmental/reproductive toxicity. It is important to note that doctors advise that children under the age of 6 years should not use mouthwash unless under proper supervision since they may swallow the mouthwash. (2)

Now that you have a little mouthwash background, perhaps making your own mouthwash is the way to go. It is so easy and you will avoid unnecessary chemicals getting into the body.

Also, if gingivitis is a problem for you, try my homemade mouthwash for gingivitis, bad breath and even use as a mouthwash for whitening your teeth. A natural mouthwash has many advantages, and by using some essentials oils, you can naturally cleanse your teeth and gums in no time. Let’s delve into how to make a DIY mouthwash.

How to Make Homemade Mouthwash

Using a mason jar or BPA-free plastic bottle, add the spring water, calcium carbonate powder and the trace minerals. Mix with a spoon.

Using spring water helps eliminate any bacteria that could come from regular tap water and since we are not using preservatives, that is important. Keeping those pearly whites healthy, in addition to keeping your gums healthy, is critical. (3) Trace minerals offer excellent antioxidants, which helps repair cell damage. (4)

Next add the essential oils. Peppermint essential oil obviously provides fresh breath, but why not get the benefits of antimicrobial properties while you’re at it. And spearmint essential oil, being a relative of peppermint, does the same thing while adding a nice taste to your mouthwash. Spearmint also helps fight gingivitis.

Tea tree essential oil is a great alternative for good oral health since it helps fight bacteria and gingivitis. It also eases any inflammation that may be present in the mouth ultimately helping speed along the healing process.

Lemon essential oil helps add a little whitening sparkle to your teeth. While you don’t want to overdo it, this is a great way to keep those teeth on the whiter side without having to go for the chemical versions. If you need a little sweetness, you can add pure liquid stevia. Put the lid on and give it a good shake or two.

To use take a small sip, then swish your homemade mouthwash around in your mouth, gargling periodically for 20–30 seconds. Then spit out. Do not swallow. You can store it in a dark place or the fridge.