Our family has fully transitioned to using a natural oral care routine. We focus on eating foods that support oral health and even create our own toothpaste that helps restore minerals. Our next step was trying out a homemade mouthwash.
This DIY mouthwash uses herbs known for naturally cleansing and healing teeth and gums. It comes as a tincture, which is easy to use and has a long shelf life. It keeps my breath fresh while naturally killing germs and maintaining a healthy pH in the mouth.
Most commercial mouthwashes are packed with sweeteners, harsh chemicals, and artificial additives. Even some so-called natural products aren’t ideal because they often contain glycerine, which can coat the teeth. That’s one reason why I developed my own glycerin-free toothpaste to keep our oral care as natural as possible.
For a homemade mouthwash, I wanted a solution for bad breath, dry mouth, and gum disease without unwanted side effects. Prescription mouthwashes use chlorhexidine to address gingivitis, but they can fall short with periodontal disease and may cause tooth discoloration, irritation, and rarely, more serious issues.
You don’t have to deal with harsh mouthwash for good oral care! Many standard options found at the grocery store contain SLS, which can provoke canker sores. Making your own mouthwash helps tackle harmful bacteria and boost oral health gently.
Pressed for time but still wanting healthy mouth care? Try this Balanced Mouth Blend. It uses essential oils for a healthier mouth; just add a few drops to water and swish. There are other easy options to consider:
If making mouthwash isn’t your thing, oil pulling offers a straightforward alternative. Swishing unrefined coconut oil in your mouth for up to 20 minutes can help remove plaque and support gum and tooth health. There’s even some evidence that coconut oil could be effective against the streptococcus mutans bacteria responsible for tooth decay.
Though oil pulling can be a topic of debate among experts about its ability to whiten teeth or benefit other parts of the body, many agree it’s a safe and effective option instead of mouthwash.
If you liked this recipe and enjoy creating your own products, you might also find these other natural oral health solutions appealing.
This article was medically reviewed by Jessica Meyers, MPAP, PA-C, RH(AHG), who specializes in herbal protocols and functional medicine. Please consult your doctor for personal medical advice. Have you ever tried making your own mouthwash? Share your experiences!
