Looking for a Natural Mouthwash? Here’s a Recipe Using Essential Oils!
How to Make Your Own Mouthwash
While many individuals are fine using commercial mouthwashes, others would rather use a more natural mouthwash for their oral hygiene. Many people are opposed to mouthwashes that use ingredients like fluoride, alcohol, sodium lauryl sulfate, and artificial sweeteners or sugars. While mainstream dental professionals generally agree that these ingredients are safe, some still prefer to use a natural alternative when it comes to using mouthwash in their daily oral hygiene routine.
Natural Mouthwash Recipe
For those seeking a natural solution, essential oils may be one option to help reduce the bacteria in their mouths without using commercial mouthwash. Here is one recipe for natural mouthwash that anyone can try:
Ingredients for Natural Mouthwash:
- 2 tsp. echinacea tincture
- 2 drops tea tree oil
- 3 to 4 drops myrrh oil
- 1 cup filtered or sterile water
Directions for Using Natural Mouthwash:
- Using a dark container, blend all of the ingredients together.
- Store the container in a dry, cool place.
- When ready to use, make sure the lid of the container is tight and then shake well.
- Take the mouthwash and swish it around in the mouth for at least one minute.
- Spit the mouthwash out in the sink – do not swallow – and then rinse the mouth again with water.
The essential oils used in this recipe – tea tree and myrrh – are known for their antimicrobial activity and have extensive scientific research to back up these claims, namely from the School of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine in Western Australia. Additionally, echinacea is known for its immune-stimulating properties that help fight inflammation as well as infection. This recipe can also be made by eliminating the echinacea and adding more of the oils.
Purchasing Essential Oils
It is important to know that the manufacturing of essential oils is not controlled by the FDA, so the quality of the products sold vary greatly. Because of this, it is important for consumers to do research about the essential oils they are purchasing to make sure they are investing in a quality product. When purchasing essential oils, opt for ones that are packaged in dark containers (they are usually blue or brown) that will help shield the oils from light pollution. Additionally, quality essential oils have both an English and Latin name on the packaging and do not contain additives.
If you have questions regarding healthy mouthwash choices, you can always consult your dentist or sign up for our New Hampshire Individual Discount Dental Plan to save as much as 20 percent on all your dental bills. For more information, please click here.
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