Mouthwash is a rinse that’s used to kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. It’s 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.
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.
Now that you have a little mouthwash background, perhaps making your own mouthwash is the way to go. It’s so easy and you will avoid unnecessary chemicals getting into the body.
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
In mason jar or BPA-free plastic bottle, use spoon to mix spring water, calcium carbonate powder and trace minerals.
Since we’re not using preservatives, it’s important to use spring water to help eliminate any bacteria lurking in tap water. Keeping those pearly whites healthy, in addition to keeping your gums healthy, is critical. Trace minerals offer excellent antioxidants, which helps repair cell damage.
Next, add the essential oils:
- Peppermint essential oil freshens breath and offers antimicrobial properties.
- Spearmint essential oil, a relative of peppermint, does the same thing while adding a pleasant taste. Spearmint also helps fight gingivitis.
- Tea tree essential oil 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 chemical-based mouthwashes.
For a touch of sweetness, add a drop of pure liquid stevia. Put the lid on and give it a good shake or two.
DIY Essential-Oil-Based Mouthwash
Ingredients
- 5 drops peppermint essential oil
- 5 drops tea tree essential oil
- 3 drops spearmint essential oil
- 3 drops lemon essential oil
- 3 cups spring water
- 1 Tbsp. calcium carbonate powder
- 8 drops concentrated trace minerals liquid
- 6 drops liquid pure stevia, optional
Instructions
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In mason jar, combine all ingredients. Cover jar tightly with lid and shake.
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To use mouthwash, take a small sip and swish it around in your mouth, gargling periodically for 20-30 seconds. Then spit out. Do not swallow. Store mouthwash in a dark place or the fridge.
Recipe Notes
Order the ingredients you need to make this natural mouthwash at Vitacost.com!
