10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Bad Breath
Herbal essential oils are natural extracts derived from plants and are often used for their aromatic and therapeutic properties.
Certain essential oils, such as peppermint, tea tree, and clove, are known for their antimicrobial properties that can help combat the bacteria responsible for bad breath. These oils can be used in diffusers, applied topically, or diluted and used as mouth rinses to freshen breath and improve oral hygiene. However, it is important to use them properly, as some oils can be irritating if not diluted correctly.
While they can be a complementary approach to managing bad breath, they should not replace proper dental care and hygiene practices.
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Table of Contents
1. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, commonly known as Australian eucalyptus, is a popular source of herbal essential oils that has been traditionally used for its refreshing and antimicrobial properties.
The essential oil derived from this plant contains compounds like eucalyptol, which exhibit strong antibacterial and antifungal effects, making it effective in combating the bacteria responsible for bad breath. When used in oral care products or diluted for topical application, eucalyptus globulus essential oil can help reduce oral odor by eliminating odor-causing microbes in the mouth. Its cool, fresh aroma also provides a pleasant sensory experience, enhancing the overall effectiveness of oral hygiene routines.
However, it is important to use this essential oil in proper dilution to avoid skin irritation or adverse reactions.
2. Origanum vulgare
Origanum vulgare, commonly known as oregano, is a herb widely used for its potent essential oils, which are known for their strong antimicrobial properties.
These essential oils contain compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which are effective in combating bacteria that contribute to bad breath. When used in oral hygiene routines, oregano essential oil can help neutralize odor-causing microorganisms in the mouth. It is often diluted with a carrier oil before application to avoid irritation, as it is highly concentrated.
Incorporating oregano essential oil into a natural oral care regimen may provide a fresh, long-lasting solution for managing bad breath.
3. Mentha piperita
Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a popular herb used in the production of essential oils that are often employed to combat bad breath.
The essential oil derived from peppermint contains menthol, which has a refreshing and cooling effect that can help neutralize oral odors. Its strong aromatic properties make it an effective natural remedy for masking and reducing the causes of bad breath. Peppermint essential oil can be used in various forms, such as in mouthwashes, gums, or diffusers, to promote fresh breath and oral hygiene.
However, it should be used in moderation and diluted properly to avoid irritation, especially when applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is a popular herb whose essential oil is widely used for its aromatic and therapeutic properties.
The essential oil of lavender contains compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties make lavender essential oil a potential natural remedy for bad breath, as it can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. When used in oral care products like mouthwashes or toothpaste, lavender essential oil can provide a fresh, calming scent while supporting oral hygiene.
However, it is important to dilute the oil properly before use to avoid irritation and ensure safe application.
5. Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, contains essential oils that are widely used for their aromatic and therapeutic properties.
The essential oil derived from the bark of this plant is rich in compounds like cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, which have natural antimicrobial effects. These properties make cinnamon essential oil a potential remedy for bad breath, as it can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. When used in oral hygiene routines, such as mouth rinses or diffused in the air, it can freshen breath and support overall oral health.
However, it is important to use it in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into a daily regimen.
6. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a popular herb whose essential oil is widely used for its refreshing and aromatic properties.
The essential oil of rosemary contains compounds like 1,8-cineole and camphor, which have natural antimicrobial effects that can help reduce the bacteria responsible for bad breath. When used in oral hygiene practices, rosemary essential oil can freshen breath and promote a clean oral environment. It is often incorporated into mouthwashes, toothpastes, and aromatherapy blends for its pleasant, woody scent.
However, it should be used with caution, as undiluted essential oils can be irritating to the mucous membranes in the mouth.
7. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, is a herbal plant that has been traditionally used for its aromatic and therapeutic properties, including its ability to combat bad breath.
The essential oils extracted from sage leaves contain compounds such as thujone and cineole, which possess antimicrobial and antiseptic qualities that help reduce oral bacteria responsible for odor. These essential oils can be used in oral care products like mouthwashes or toothpaste to provide a fresh, clean feeling. However, due to the potency of sage essential oils, they should be diluted properly before use to avoid irritation.
Incorporating sage essential oils into a regular oral hygiene routine may offer a natural alternative for maintaining fresh breath.
8. Piper nigrum
Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used for their antimicrobial properties.
These essential oils, derived from the dried fruit of the plant, help combat the bacteria that cause bad breath by inhibiting their growth. The active compounds, such as piperine, contribute to the oil's ability to freshen breath and reduce oral odor. When used in oral care products or diluted for topical application, piper nigrum essential oils offer a natural alternative for improving breath freshness.
However, it is important to use these oils in moderation and consult a healthcare professional before incorporating them into a regular oral care routine.
9. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a spice and herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its various health benefits.
While it is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, curcuma longa essential oil has also been explored for its potential role in addressing bad breath, or halitosis. The essential oil derived from turmeric contains compounds like curcuminoids, which may help reduce oral bacteria that contribute to unpleasant odors. Studies suggest that the antimicrobial properties of curcuma longa essential oil could inhibit the growth of anaerobic bacteria, which are often responsible for bad breath.
However, it is important to note that while it may offer some benefits, it should not replace proper oral hygiene and should be used cautiously, as essential oils can be potent and may cause irritation if not diluted properly.
10. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is a herb widely used for its aromatic and therapeutic properties, including its effectiveness in addressing bad breath.
The essential oil extracted from fennel seeds contains compounds like anethole, which possess natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat oral bacteria responsible for halitosis. This essential oil can be used in oral hygiene routines, such as adding a few drops to mouthwash or using it as a natural breath freshener. Its pleasant licorice-like aroma not only masks unpleasant odors but also supports overall oral health.
Due to its efficacy and mild nature, fennel essential oil is a popular choice for those seeking a natural remedy for persistent bad breath.