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.

1. Eucalyptus (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. Oregano (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. Peppermint (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. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, contains essential oils that are renowned for their potent antimicrobial properties, making them effective in combating the bacteria responsible for bad breath.

The primary active compounds, such as cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, help neutralize odor-causing microbes in the mouth. When used in oral care products like mouthwashes or toothpaste, cinnamon essential oil can freshen breath naturally without the use of synthetic chemicals. Its warm, spicy aroma also provides a pleasant sensory experience, enhancing the overall effectiveness of oral hygiene routines.

However, it should be used in moderation to avoid potential irritation of the oral mucosa.

5. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used for their antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bad breath.

The essential oils in black pepper, including compounds like piperine and limonene, possess natural antibacterial effects that can reduce the presence of odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. These oils can be used in oral hygiene routines, such as adding a few drops to mouthwash or using them in steam inhalation to freshen breath. However, it is important to use these oils in moderation, as they can be potent and may cause irritation if overused.

While piper nigrum essential oils offer potential benefits for bad breath, they should complement, not replace, proper dental hygiene practices.

6. Rosemary (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. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, contains essential oils that have been studied for their potential benefits in addressing bad breath.

These essential oils, derived from the rhizomes of the plant, possess antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the bacteria responsible for halitosis. The active compounds, such as curcuminoids, have demonstrated effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of odor-causing microorganisms in the oral cavity. Incorporating turmeric essential oils into oral care routines may offer a natural and effective alternative to conventional mouthwashes.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using these oils, especially for prolonged or intensive use.

8. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is a popular herb used in the production of essential oils that may help alleviate bad breath.

The essential oil derived from lavender contains compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which possess antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the bacteria responsible for causing halitosis. When used in oral care routines, lavender essential oil can freshen breath naturally without the use of synthetic additives. Its calming scent also provides a soothing effect, making it a pleasant addition to mouthwashes or dental care products.

However, it is important to dilute the essential oil properly before use, as undiluted application can irritate the mucous membranes in the mouth.

9. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Thymus vulgaris, commonly known as thyme, is a herb widely used in traditional medicine for its potent essential oils that offer natural remedies for various health issues, including bad breath.

The essential oils derived from thyme contain compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which have strong antimicrobial properties that help eliminate the bacteria responsible for causing halitosis. These oils can be used in oral hygiene products such as mouthwashes or toothpaste to freshen breath and prevent the buildup of odor-causing microorganisms. Thyme essential oil is also valued for its ability to reduce plaque and gingivitis, further contributing to improved oral health and fresh breath.

When used properly, thyme essential oils provide a safe and effective alternative for those seeking natural solutions to combat bad breath.

10. Salvia (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, is a herbal plant widely used for its essential oils, which have been traditionally valued for their ability to freshen breath and combat oral bacteria.

The essential oils extracted from sage leaves contain compounds such as thujone and cineole, which possess antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the bacteria responsible for bad breath. These oils are often used in natural remedies and oral care products due to their strong, pleasant aroma and therapeutic benefits. Sage essential oil can be diluted and applied topically or used in steam inhalation to provide a refreshing effect on the mouth and throat.

However, it is important to use these oils with caution, as they can be potent and may cause irritation if not properly diluted.