How to Make a Homemade Mouthwash Using Essential Oils
With all the chemicals and additives in mouthwash, many people have turned to making their own. Alcohol in mouthwash is another concern many consumers have. According to a report published in the Dental Journal of Australia, the alcohol in mouthwash can "contribute to the increased risk of development of oral cancer" (see link in Resources). While further study needs to done on this issue, a mouthwash does not require alcohol to be effective. Essential oils made from plants (such as fennel, tea tree and caraway) that are naturally antiseptic will decrease the amount of bacteria in your mouth. Baking soda is effective against plaque and Xylitol has had impressive results in the fight against tooth decay.
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Things You'll Need
- Clean container for mouthwash Mineral water Baking soda Tea tree, caraway or fennel oil Xylitol crystals
Instructions
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Mix 1 cup of mineral water with 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a microwave safe bowl until well blended.
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Warm the mixture slightly in the microwave. Do not overheat.
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Drop in 2 to 4 drops of either tea tree, caraway or fennel oils. These oils are considered non-irritating and safe for gargling by the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (see link in Resources). All three oils are antiseptic, but tea tree oil is also a disinfectant.
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Mix 2 teaspoons of Xylitol crystals into the mouthwash. Stir until blended.
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Pour the mouthwash into a clean bottle and store somewhere cool and dark until ready to use.
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Tips & Warnings
For the mouthwash to be the most effective, shake the mixture. Swish with 2 tablespoons of it twice a day. Spit out the mouthwash after at least 30 seconds of gargling. Always purchase pure essential oils. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy defines pure as "100 percent derived from the named botanical source by steam distillation (or by mechanical pressing of citrus oils)." See link in Resources. Since homemade mouthwash is not sweetened and processed like commercial mouthwashes, the taste can be startling at first. Let the mixture sit for an hour or two, so the flavors will blend and lessen in strength.
Consult your physician before using a homemade mouthwash if you have any allergies or other concerns. Since homemade mouthwash does not have the same preservatives as purchased, make only small batches at a time.
