Ask people around for the dirtiest part of the body, and there will be a lot of them who will challenge you for a debate if you insist that the dirtiest part of the human body is the mouth. Numerous experts however will tell you that you are right.

While some believe that the dirtiest part is the hands, the mouth is humid, moist and warm. This kind of environment is the favourite breeding ground for several types of bacteria. In fact, there is an estimated 700 types of bacteria, some pathogenic, living in the recesses of the mouth in a normal person. Because of this, the mouth stinks regularly, and is even implicated in diseases of the heart that has microorganisms as the cause, such as valvular abnormalities.

It is therefore essential for one to clean his mouth daily, by brushing and flossing regularly. Saliva, water, chemicals in the toothpaste and commercial astringents can help in killing some of the unwanted bacteria in the mouth. However, there are remedies that can also assist in this task. Below are homemade natural mouthwashes that have been proven to improve conditions of the mouth and promote fresh smelling breath.

1. Cinnamon and Fennel

   The essential oils of cinnamon and fennel are believed to be effective astringents. When combined, it becomes more powerful, yet natural and can save one from buying commercial mouthwash that has more chemicals in the ingredients. To make this mouthwash, 2 cups of distilled water is combined with 8 drops of the essential oil of cinnamon; this mixture is heated low for about 2-3 minutes. 8 drops of the fennel essential oil is then added to the mixture and heated again for 2 minutes more. The mixture is then cooled, stored in sterilized bottle for 24 hours and then it is ready to use.

2. Cinnamon and Nutmeg

   Another do-it-yourself mouthwash that gives that refreshing feeling in the mouth is the combination of cinnamon and nutmeg. A tablespoon of cinnamon chips, a tablespoon of cloves, a teaspoon of anise seeds and a teaspoon of nutmeg that is freshly grounded are all placed in a container with a tight lid. One cup of high proof brandy is then added to the dried mixture. The mixture is placed in a dark corner with a closed lid, and is stored for about 14 days, making sure that the mixture is shaken daily. After 2 weeks, the mixture is strained using a fine mesh, and is ready to be used as a daily mouthwash regimen.

3. Lavender

   Popular in the market are the minty flavored mouthwashes. However, there are some who prefers the naturally flavored ones. A do-it-yourself mouthwash is made of lavender. A tablespoon of dried lavender is combined with a cup and a quarter of mineral water. After stirring the mixture gently, the mixture is heated and brought to a simmer for 45 minutes.  Remove from heat and strain the mixture into a large bottle enough for the amount. After being cooled in room temperature, about 2 tablespoon of sweet sherry is added and stirred gently. The lavender mouthwash mixture is then stored at room temperature or even inside the fridge. To use the mouthwash, swish a tablespoon together with a tablespoon of water in the mouth for 2 minutes.

4. Citrus

   The elements in citrus are beneficial in cleansing the mouth. Citrus itself is a good astringent and keeps the mouth fresh for a longer period of time. To make a citrus mouthwash, the ingredients needed are: a quarter of a teaspoon each of the following essential oils – lemon, lime and orange; a half cup of brandy (high-proof), a cup and a half of spring water. Making use of a small saucepan, combine the brandy and the three essential oils; heat without boiling. Remove from heat and then pour in the spring water. Swirl it in and place inside the fridge for at least 8 hours to infuse well. Transfer the mixture in a tight-lid bottle and store in a dry, cool place in between uses.

5. Lavender and Peppermint

   Do-it-yourself minty mouthwash is also available using the fresh peppermint leaves. Although there are several commercially prepared products similar to lavender and peppermint mouthwash, a homemade mouthwash is economical. To make the mouthwash, prepare the following: a cup of distilled water, 2 tablespoons of fresh lavender, 2 tablespoons of fresh peppermint, 2 tablespoons of high-proof vodka, a saucepan and a bottle with a lid to store the mixture. Boil the water in the saucepan. In the small bottle, put the lavender and the peppermint. While the water is boiling, add to the small bottle with the herbs and steep for at least 40 minutes while the bottle is closed. Strain the mixture in another sterilized bottle, add the vodka, shake and cool in room temperature, making sure to shake the bottle whenever the mouthwash is used.

6. Tea Tree Oil

   Commercialized mouthwash has several ingredients you cannot even pronounce. If you make a homemade mouthwash, you are sure of the ingredients and how it is being done. The mouthwash made of tea tree oil is another popular flavor for mouthwash because of its antibacterial and anti-gingival properties. To make a cup of a tea tree oil mouthwash, combine in the bottle a cup and a quarter of mineral or distilled water with 5 drops of peppermint oil and 5 drops of tea tree oil, together with a pinch of stevia or xylitol, which acts as sweetener. Put the lid on and shake well.

7. Rosemary and Peppermint

   The last popular flavour of mouthwash is the use of the herb rosemary and the most sought-after peppermint. In order to make this ever economical mouthwash, boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Add a tablespoon of dried rosemary to the boiled water, cover and marinate for an hour. Strain the mixture in the bowl and add 10 drops of peppermint oil while whisking gently. Heat the mixture back in the saucepan for 10 seconds. Add 10 drops of the benzoin tincture, and then whisk it again gently. Place mixture in the bottle with a tight lid and store in the refrigerator. The mixture can be used daily and can be stored for up to 20 days.

Sources
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