10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Bad Breath

Herbal decoctions for bad breath are a natural remedy that involves steeping herbs in hot water to create a liquid solution that helps eliminate bad breath.

These decoctions work by reducing bacteria in the mouth, neutralizing acids, and freshening breath. Examples of herbal decoctions include peppermint, eucalyptus, and fennel, which can be consumed as tea or used as mouthwashes.

By using these decoctions, individuals can experience improved oral health and increased confidence, leading to a better quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for bad breath, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, decoctions helps with bad breath because of its antibacterial properties that combat the growth of bacteria in the mouth, which cause bad breath.

The menthol content in peppermint decoctions also has a freshening effect, leaving the mouth feeling clean and cool. Additionally, peppermint's ability to stimulate saliva production helps wash away bacteria and food particles, reducing the presence of volatile sulfur compounds that contribute to bad breath.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to promote oral health and fresh breath.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with bad breath.

• Menthol: A terpene that has antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth that cause bad breath.
• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which can help to neutralize volatile sulfur compounds responsible for bad breath.
• Caryophyllene: A sesquiterpene with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the mouth and prevent the formation of volatile compounds that cause bad breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for bad breath.

• Leaves: Known for their potent oil content, peppermint leaves help freshen breath and reduce bacteria that cause bad breath.
• Roots: The roots of peppermint contain a high concentration of menthol, which has antibacterial properties that help eliminate bad breath-causing bacteria.
• Stems: Like the leaves, peppermint stems also contain menthol, which helps to reduce bacteria and freshen breath when used in decoctions.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for bad breath.

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh mentha x piperita leaves in the early morning to ensure optimal potency and flavor.
2. Chop the harvested leaves into small pieces to increase their surface area for easier infusion.
3. Combine the chopped leaves with 1 quart of boiling water to create a strong decoction.
4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the bioactive compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.

2. Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea tree decoctions helps with bad breath because of its antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat the bacteria that cause halitosis.

The decongestant and anti-inflammatory compounds present in tea tree decoctions reduce inflammation and swelling in the mouth and throat, allowing for better airflow and eliminating odor-causing substances.

Additionally, tea tree decoctions' antibacterial properties help to eradicate the bacteria responsible for bad breath, leaving the mouth feeling fresh and clean.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia decoctions that help with bad breath.

• Cineole: This terpene has antibacterial properties, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth that cause bad breath.
• Linalool: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, which can help inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that contribute to bad breath.
• Cymene: This terpene has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, helping to reduce the presence of bacteria and other microorganisms that cause bad breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make decoctions for bad breath.

• Leaves: Essential oil extracted from Melaleuca alternifolia leaves is commonly used to make decoctions for bad breath due to its antimicrobial properties.
• Stems: The bark of the stems is used to make decoctions for bad breath as it contains compounds that have antibacterial properties.
• Barks: The barks of Melaleuca alternifolia are used to make decoctions for bad breath as they contain compounds with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for bad breath.

1. Gather 30 grams of dried melaleuca alternifolia leaves and 1 liter of pure water in a large pot.
2. Combine the leaves with the water and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat for 10 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and let the decoction steep for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the leaves.
5. Allow the decoction to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for storage.

3. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum decoctions helps with bad breath because of its unique composition.

The essential oils present in the decoction, particularly eucalyptol and cajeputol, have potent antimicrobial properties that target bacteria responsible for halitosis. These oils also have anti-inflammatory effects, which help to reduce swelling and irritation in the mouth and throat that can contribute to bad breath.

Additionally, Tasmanian blue gum has natural astringent properties that help to dry out the mucous membranes, further reducing the likelihood of bad breath-causing bacteria from multiplying and causing odor.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus decoctions that help with bad breath.

• Cineole: Acts as an antimicrobial agent, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth that cause bad breath.
• Α-terpineol: Possesses deodorizing and antimicrobial properties, which help to eliminate volatile sulfur compounds and other odor-causing substances from the mouth and breath.
• Catechin: Exhibits potent antimicrobial activity, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that contribute to bad breath and gum disease.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make decoctions for bad breath.

• Leaves: Eucalyptus globulus leaves are the most used part for decoctions to combat bad breath due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a natural decongestant and antibacterial agent.
• Barks: The barks of Eucalyptus globulus trees are used for decoctions to freshen breath due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce gum inflammation and kill bacteria.
• Buds: Eucalyptus globulus buds are used for decoctions to alleviate bad breath as they contain eucalyptol and other compounds that help eliminate oral bacteria and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for bad breath.

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves and 1 liter of water for the decoction process.
2. Combine the dried eucalyptus globulus leaves with water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Discard the solids and store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Cinnamomum verum

Ceylon cinnamon decoctions helps with bad breath because of its unique properties that combat oral bacteria and freshen the mouth.

The decoction's volatile oils, such as cinnamaldehyde, have natural antibacterial and antifungal capabilities, which work to reduce the growth of harmful microorganisms responsible for bad breath. Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon's warm, spicy flavor stimulates saliva production, helping to neutralize acid and wash away food particles that can contribute to bad breath.

As a result, regular use of Ceylon cinnamon decoctions can leave the mouth feeling clean and fresh, promoting a healthy and pleasant oral environment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum decoctions that help with bad breath.

• Cinnamaldehyde: This phenolic aldehyde has antimicrobial properties, which help reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth that cause bad breath.
• Eugenol: This phenolic compound has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help combat the microorganisms that contribute to bad breath and gum disease.
• Cinnamomin: This sesquiterpene has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent the formation of volatile sulfur compounds that cause bad breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make decoctions for bad breath.

• Rhyzomes: Cinnamomum verum rhyzomes are used to make decoctions for bad breath because of their high concentration of cinnamaldehyde, a potent antibacterial agent that helps eliminate oral bacteria causing bad breath.
• Leaves: Cinnamomum verum leaves are used to make decoctions for bad breath due to their antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation in the mouth and gums, ultimately alleviating bad breath.
• Barks: Cinnamomum verum barks are used to make decoctions for bad breath because of their antimicrobial properties, which help kill bacteria and other microorganisms in the mouth that contribute to bad breath.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for bad breath.

1. Gather 2 grams of dried cinnamomum verum bark and place it in a heat-resistant container.
2. Boil 300 milliliters of water in a kettle then carefully pour it over the cinnamomum verum.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
5. Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature before consuming.

5. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with bad breath because it has natural antibacterial properties that destroy the bacteria responsible for causing halitosis.

The volatile oils present in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of anaerobic bacteria that thrive in the mouth and cause bad breath. Additionally, ginger decoctions stimulate saliva production, which helps to neutralize acids and wash away debris from the teeth and tongue, further reducing bad breath.

This natural remedy can provide relief from unpleasant odors and fresen up your breath.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with bad breath.

• Gingerols and shogaols: These compounds have antimicrobial properties that help reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth, which is a primary cause of bad breath.
• Curcumin: As a potent antioxidant, curcumin helps reduce inflammation in the mouth and gums, which can contribute to bad breath, while also inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria.
• Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has antimicrobial properties that help combat the bacteria responsible for bad breath, while also reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy oral environment.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for bad breath.

• Rhyzomes: These are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of active compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have antimicrobial properties that help combat bad breath.
• Roots: Roots of Zingiber officinale also contain similar active compounds to the rhyzomes and are often used as a substitute when rhyzomes are not available.
• Leaves: Leaves of ginger contain less active compounds than rhyzomes or roots, but still possess some antimicrobial properties that can help alleviate bad breath.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for bad breath.

1. Measure 2-3 grams of dried rhizome roots in a small bowl for decoction.
2. Combine measured roots with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to boil.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

6. Coriandrum sativum

Coriander decoctions helps with bad breath because it has potent antibacterial properties that effectively combat the underlying causes of halitosis.

The coriander plant contains compounds like linalool and geraniol, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for bad breath, such as Streptococcus and Escherichia coli.

Regular consumption of coriander decoctions can help reduce the presence of these bacteria in the mouth, leading to fresher breath and a reduced risk of halitosis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Coriandrum sativum decoctions that help with bad breath.

• Linalool: A terpene compound found in coriander, linalool has antimicrobial properties that help reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth, thereby alleviating bad breath.
• Apigenin: A flavonoid phenolic compound, apigenin possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help combat oral infections and inflammation, contributing to fresher breath.
• Limonene: A monoterpene compound, limonene has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce the presence of bacteria and inflammation in the mouth, resulting in improved oral hygiene and reduced bad breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of coriander used to make decoctions for bad breath.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Coriandrum sativum due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly linalool and geraniol, which have antimicrobial properties that help combat bad breath.
• Seeds: Coriandrum sativum seeds are used in decoctions to combat bad breath because they contain compounds that have antibacterial properties, helping to reduce oral bacteria that cause bad breath.
• Roots: The roots of Coriandrum sativum are used in decoctions to treat bad breath due to their rich content of antioxidants and volatile oils, which help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic coriander for bad breath.

1. Gather 25 grams of dried coriandrum sativum leaves and flowers for herbal decoction preparation.
2. Boil 750 milliliters of water in a saucepan for 5 minutes before reducing heat.
3. Add the dried coriandrum sativum ingredients to the boiling water and steep for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the coriandrum sativum decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours after preparation.

7. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme decoctions helps with bad breath because of its natural antibacterial properties, which combat the underlying causes of halitosis.

The essential oils in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to bad breath, including Streptococcus and E. coli. Additionally, thyme decoctions help to reduce inflammation and kill anaerobic bacteria, which thrive in a dry mouth environment and contribute to unpleasant odors.

By targeting these underlying causes, thyme decoctions provide a natural and effective solution for freshening breath.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris decoctions that help with bad breath.

• Thymol: Thymol has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth that can cause bad breath.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol has antimicrobial properties, which can help eliminate the bacteria responsible for volatile sulfur compounds that cause bad breath.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the formation of free radicals that contribute to gum inflammation and bad breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make decoctions for bad breath.

• Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of thymol, a natural antibacterial compound that helps combat the bacteria responsible for bad breath.
• Flowers: Utilized for their fragrance and flavor, which can help freshen breath and reduce halitosis.
• Buds: Employed for their similar properties to leaves, containing thymol and other compounds that can combat bad breath-causing bacteria.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for bad breath.

1. Gather 5-10 grams of dried thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers for this herbal decoction recipe.
2. Combine the gathered thymus vulgaris in a saucepan with 250 milliliters of water for decoction.
3. Boil the thymus vulgaris and water mixture for 5-7 minutes over medium heat for infusion.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the solid particles.
5. Store the prepared thymus vulgaris decoction in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

8. Origanum vulgare

Wild marjoram decoctions helps with bad breath because it is a natural antibacterial agent that effectively kills the bacteria responsible for causing halitosis.

The decoction's active compounds, such as thymol and borneol, penetrate deep into the mouth and tongue, eliminating odors caused by anaerobic bacterial growth.

Additionally, wild marjoram's antimicrobial properties help to reduce inflammation and soothe gum irritation, further contributing to its effectiveness in combating bad breath.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum vulgare decoctions that help with bad breath.

• Carvacrol: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth responsible for causing bad breath.
• Thymol: This monoterpenic phenol has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, which help to eliminate bacteria and other microorganisms contributing to halitosis.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic acid has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth, thereby reducing bad breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make decoctions for bad breath.

• Leaves: The antimicrobial properties of oregano leaves help combat bacteria that cause bad breath.
• Stems: The essential oils present in oregano stems have antibacterial properties that reduce bacteria in the mouth, thereby reducing bad breath.
• Roots: The roots of oregano contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth, which can cause bad breath.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for bad breath.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh origanum vulgare leaves and flowers in the morning to ensure maximum potency.
2. Dry the harvested origanum vulgare leaves and flowers in a well-ventilated area for 7-10 days to preserve their properties.
3. Crush 10-15 grams of dried origanum vulgare leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the powdered origanum vulgare in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 10-15 minutes to create a decoction.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove any solids.

9. Satureja hortensis

Summer savory decoctions helps with bad breath because of its natural antimicrobial properties, which work to eliminate bacteria that cause halitosis.

The herbs contain compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which have potent antibacterial and antifungal effects. These compounds help to reduce the growth of odor-causing bacteria in the mouth, tongue, and gums, leaving your breath smelling fresh and clean.

Regular consumption of summer savory decoctions can also help to soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing the production of sulfur compounds that contribute to bad breath.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Satureja hortensis decoctions that help with bad breath.

• Thymol: Thymol is a potent antibacterial agent that helps to reduce the growth of bacteria in the oral cavity, thereby preventing the production of volatile sulfur compounds that cause bad breath.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol has antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for bad breath, such as Streptococcus and E. coli, thereby reducing the production of volatile compounds that cause bad breath.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a potent antioxidant that helps to neutralize free radicals in the oral cavity, which can contribute to bad breath, and also has antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for bad breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of summer savory used to make decoctions for bad breath.

• Leaves: Satureja hortensis leaves are used to make decoctions for bad breath due to their antimicrobial properties that help kill bacteria in the mouth.
• Flowers: Satureja hortensis flowers are used to make decoctions for bad breath due to their ability to reduce inflammation and freshen breath.
• Roots: Satureja hortensis roots are used to make decoctions for bad breath due to their antimicrobial and antiseptic properties that help fight oral infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic summer savory for bad breath.

1. Gather 30-40 grams of dried satureja hortensis flowers from a reputable source.
2. Boil 1 liter of water in a saucepan for 5-10 minutes to create a steamy environment.
3. Add the dried flowers to the boiling water and continue to boil for 5 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing for later use.

10. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary decoctions helps with bad breath because of its potent antibacterial properties.

The essential oils present in rosemary leaves have been shown to effectively combat the bacteria that cause bad breath, such as Helicobacter pylori and Streptococcus mutans. By reducing the levels of these bacteria, rosemary decoctions help eliminate unpleasant odors from the mouth, leaving your breath fresh and clean.

Additionally, rosemary's antimicrobial properties also help soothe gum inflammation and reduce plaque formation, further contributing to its benefits for oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis decoctions that help with bad breath.

• Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene has antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth that cause bad breath.
• Rosmarinicine: This phenolic diterpene has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help to neutralize free radicals and reduce the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath.
• Bornyl acetate: This sesquiterpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, and prevent the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for bad breath.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly camphor and borneol, which have antibacterial properties that help combat bad breath.
• Flowers: Flowers are used for their aromatic and antibacterial properties, which help to freshen the breath and reduce the bacteria that cause bad breath.
• Stems: Stems of Rosmarinus officinalis are used due to their ability to release oils when infused, which helps to kill bacteria in the mouth and reduce bad breath.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for bad breath.

1. Harvest 30g of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves or 15g of dried leaves for decoction preparation.
2. Combine the harvested rosmarinus officinalis leaves with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the leaves start to release their fragrance.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer the decoction for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for bad breath?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with bad breath is a blend of peppermint, eucalyptus, and clove.

Peppermint helps to freshen the breath and reduce inflammation in the gums. Eucalyptus has antibacterial properties that combat the bacteria causing bad breath.

Clove, rich in eugenol, has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that soothe the mouth and throat. Together, these decoctions create a powerful and natural remedy to eliminate bad breath and promote oral health.

Regular consumption can lead to a fresher and healthier mouth.

What ailments similar to bad breath are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to bad breath that are treated with herbal decoctions are various oral health issues, such as gum disease, toothache, and mouth ulcers.

Decoctions of herbs like neem, turmeric, and clove have antimicrobial properties that help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria responsible for these conditions.

Additionally, herbal decoctions can also be used to treat digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and diarrhea, which may contribute to bad breath.