10 best herbal essential oils for bad breath

Herbal essential oils for bad breath are natural remedies that harness the potent antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of plant extracts to eliminate bad breath.

These oils help combat oral bacteria, reduce inflammation, and freshen breath by stimulating saliva production. For example, peppermint oil's cooling sensation can invigorate mouthfeel, while tea tree oil's antifungal properties target Candida overgrowth.

Using herbal essential oils for bad breath improves lives by boosting confidence, enhancing social interactions, and promoting overall oral health.

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

1. Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea tree essential oils helps with bad breath because of its natural antibacterial properties, which effectively combat the bacteria that cause halitosis.

When used as a mouthwash or added to toothpaste, tea tree oil's antimicrobial properties help kill the germs that contribute to bad breath.

Additionally, its decongestant properties can help reduce swelling in the gums and tongue, further alleviating bad breath symptoms.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in tea tree essential oils that aid with bad breath.

• Antimicrobial properties: Tea tree oil has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can cause bad breath.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Tea tree oil's anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce swelling in the mouth and throat, which can contribute to bad breath.
• Natural antibacterial agent: Tea tree oil contains compounds like cineole, terpinen-4-ol, and alpha-pinene that have been shown to have antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans, a common cause of tooth decay and bad breath.

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

• Leaves: Known for their potent antibacterial properties, tea tree leaves are rich in oil glands that produce melaleuca alternifolia oil, which helps combat bad breath-causing bacteria.
• Roots: With its high concentration of terpenes and phenolic compounds, the root system of tea tree plants has been traditionally used to create essential oils that effectively eliminate halitosis.

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

1. Harvest fresh melaleuca leaves from a healthy plant at dawn on a dry day when the dew has evaporated and the temperature is mild.
2. Wash the harvested leaves gently with filtered water to remove dirt dust and other contaminants in batches of 100g.
3. Steam distill the washed leaves using a steam distillation apparatus for 1 hour while monitoring the condenser temperature between 90°c to 95°c.
4. Collect the resulting essential oil by transferring it from the receiver flask into a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid after a minimum of 10ml has accumulated.
5. Store the freshly harvested melaleuca alternifolia essential oil in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat for a minimum of 2 weeks before use to allow maturation.

2. Cymbopogon citratus

Lemongrass essential oils helps with bad breath because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which help to eliminate bacteria that cause bad odors in the mouth.

The oil's citral content also has a natural decongestant effect, reducing inflammation and swelling in the gums and throat, making it easier for the body to expel toxins through sweat and urine.

Additionally, lemongrass essential oils have been shown to stimulate saliva production, which helps to rinse away bacteria and food particles that can contribute to bad breath.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemongrass essential oils that aid with bad breath.

• Antibacterial property: Lemongrass essential oil has antibacterial properties that help kill bacteria that cause bad breath, such as Streptococcus mutans and Actinomyces naeslundii.
• Deodorizing property: Lemongrass essential oil has a strong deodorizing effect that helps neutralize volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) responsible for body odor and bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Lemongrass essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and inflammation in the gums and mouth tissues, which can contribute to bad breath and gum disease.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make essential oils for bad breath.

• Roots: The roots are rich in bioactive compounds that provide a strong antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective against bad breath-causing bacteria.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes contain high amounts of citral, a natural compound that has antibacterial and deodorizing properties, which help to eliminate bad breath.

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

1. Harvest 100 grams of fresh cymbopogon citratus leaves at dawn when their aroma is most potent.
2. Wash the harvested leaves thoroughly with cold running water and gently pat dry with a clean cloth.
3. Steam distill the dried leaves using 200 ml of distilled water at 60°c for 30 minutes to extract the essential oil.
4. Filter the extracted oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into a dark glass bottle containing 50 mg of vitamin e oil as an antioxidant.
5. Store the final product in a cool, dark place and use within 6 months as its shelf life is approximately 12 months.

3. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with bad breath because of its natural antibacterial properties, which help to kill the bacteria that cause bad breath.

The oil's menthol content also stimulates saliva production, washing away bacteria and food particles from the mouth and throat. Additionally, peppermint's refreshing aroma can help to mask unpleasant odors, leaving the mouth feeling clean and fresh.

As a result, using herbal peppermint essential oils as a mouthwash or adding it to toothpaste can be an effective way to combat bad breath and leave your breath smelling sweet.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint essential oils that aid with bad breath.

• Antimicrobial properties: Peppermint essential oil's antimicrobial properties help to combat bacteria and germs that cause bad breath, reducing the growth of anaerobic bacteria that thrive on sulfur-containing compounds.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Peppermint essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties can reduce swelling in the gums and tongue, which can contribute to bad breath, by soothing irritated tissues and promoting healthy oral flora.
• Digestive benefits: Peppermint essential oil can aid digestion and relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as bloating and gas, which can lead to bad breath.

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

• Roots: The roots of the peppermint plant are rich in menthol, which has natural antibacterial properties that help combat bad breath.
• Barks: The barks of the peppermint plant contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making them effective in reducing gum inflammation and eliminating bad breath.

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

1. Harvest high-quality mentha x piperita leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated for optimal oil content.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using a food dehydrator on low heat for 6 hours or until they reach a moisture level of 10%.
3. Steam distill the dried mint leaves using a steam distillation apparatus with water at a ratio of 1:3 and collect the essential oils for 4-6 hours.
4. Filter the collected essential oil using a paper filter or coffee filter to remove any impurities or sediment from the distillation process.
5. Store the filtered mentha x piperita essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and use within 12 months of production date for optimal freshness and potency.

4. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum essential oils helps with bad breath because of its potent antimicrobial properties that effectively eliminate bacteria in the mouth, responsible for causing bad breath.

The oil's antibacterial compounds work to reduce the growth of harmful microorganisms, leaving a fresh and clean sensation in the mouth.

Additionally, Tasmanian blue gum essential oil's natural decongestant properties help to reduce inflammation in the gums and sinuses, further reducing the likelihood of bad breath.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in tasmanian blue gum essential oils that aid with bad breath.

• Antibacterial properties: Tasmanian Blue Gum oil's antibacterial properties help to reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth, which can cause bad breath and gum disease.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: The anti-inflammatory compounds in Tasmanian Blue Gum oil may help to reduce swelling and pain in the gums and mouth tissues, reducing inflammation that can contribute to bad breath.
• Antioxidant properties: Tasmanian Blue Gum oil's antioxidants can help to neutralize free radicals in the mouth that can damage gum tissue and cause bad breath.

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

• Roots: The roots of the Tasmanian Blue Gum plant are used to make essential oils for bad breath as they contain bioactive compounds with antimicrobial properties, effectively combating oral bacteria.
• Barks: The barks of the Tasmanian Blue Gum plant are used to create essential oils that help reduce inflammation in the mouth and gums, alleviating bad breath symptoms.

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

1. Harvest fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves in the morning for optimal oil content and quality.
2. Wash the harvested leaves thoroughly with distilled water and air dry them for at least 24 hours.
3. Use a high-quality steam distiller to extract the essential oil from the dried eucalyptus globulus leaves at a ratio of 1:4 leaf-to-water mixture.
4. Allow the extracted oil to separate into layers and discard the bottom layer of impurities before transferring it to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids.
5. Store the eucalyptus globulus essential oil in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months or use immediately after preparation as a natural remedy for bad breath.

5. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme essential oils helps with bad breath because of its natural antibacterial properties that target the bacteria responsible for causing halitosis.

The oil's active compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, effectively eliminate odor-causing germs from the mouth, tongue, and gums. Additionally, thyme oil has a freshening effect on the breath, leaving it feeling clean and revitalized.

When applied topically to the tongue or gum, thyme essential oil can provide fast relief from bad breath and leave the mouth smelling fresh and clean.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme essential oils that aid with bad breath.

• Antimicrobial properties: Thyme essential oil has antimicrobial properties that help kill bacteria and other microorganisms in the mouth, reducing the growth of plaque and gingivitis that can contribute to bad breath.
• Antioxidant properties: Thyme essential oil contains antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals in the mouth, which can damage oral tissues and lead to halitosis (bad breath).
• Sweating and detoxification stimulation: Thyme essential oil can stimulate sweating and detoxification processes in the body, including in the mouth, which can help remove toxins and waste products that may be contributing to bad breath.

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

• Roots: Thyme roots have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in combating bad breath-causing bacteria.
• Leaves: Thyme leaves contain high levels of thymol, a natural antiseptic that helps kill bacteria and freshen breath.

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

1. Harvest 10 grams of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers at peak potency.
2. Dry the plant material in a warm air circulation oven for 24 hours at 35°c temperature.
3. Steam distill 5 grams of dried thymus vulagris plant material in water for 4 hours using a clevenger apparatus.
4. Collect and filter the essential oil through a coffee filter paper into a glass vial within 30 minutes.
5. Store the thymus vulagris essential oil in an amber glass bottle with tight cap at room temperature for up to 6 months.

6. Origanum vulgare

Wild marjoram essential oils helps with bad breath because of its potent antibacterial and antifungal properties.

The oil's natural compounds, such as thymol and camphor, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause halitosis, or bad breath. Additionally, wild marjoram essential oil has deodorizing and refreshing properties, leaving your mouth feeling clean and fresh.

When used in a dental routine, including brushing and flossing, it can help eliminate unpleasant odors and leave your breath smelling sweet and clean.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wild marjoram essential oils that aid with bad breath.

• Antibacterial properties: Wild marjoram essential oil has antibacterial properties that help combat the bacteria responsible for bad breath, such as Streptococcus mutans and E. coli, by inhibiting their growth and reducing their ability to produce volatile sulfur compounds.
• Antifungal properties: The antifungal properties of wild marjoram essential oil can help control the growth of Candida albicans, a fungus that can contribute to bad breath, by inhibiting its metabolic activity and preventing it from producing harmful compounds.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Wild marjoram essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, which is often a contributing factor to bad breath.

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

• Roots: Rich in antibacterial properties, making them effective in reducing bacteria that causes bad breath.
• Flowers: Known for their sweet, pungent aroma, which helps to mask and eliminate unpleasant mouth odors.

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

1. Harvest fresh origanum vulgare leaves by hand in the morning after dew has dried.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using shade drying for 3-4 days or air drying for 7-10 days.
3. Steam distill the dried origanum vulgare leaves using a small steam distillation apparatus with 5% load capacity for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
4. Collect the essential oil from the condenser tube and transfer it to a dark glass vial, using a volume of 10 milliliters with a concentration of 20%.
5. Store the origanum vulgare essential oil in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months, or refrigerate for longer storage.

7. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary essential oils helps with bad breath because of its natural antibacterial properties, which effectively combat the growth of bacteria in the mouth that can cause bad breath.

Additionally, rosemary oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the gums and mouth tissues, further contributing to a fresh and clean breath.

As a result, incorporating rosemary essential oils into your oral care routine can leave you with a revitalized sense of freshness and confidence.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in rosemary essential oils that aid with bad breath.

• Antimicrobial properties: Rosemary essential oil has antimicrobial properties that help kill bacteria responsible for causing bad breath, such as Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Rosemary essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling and pain in the gums and mouth, which can contribute to bad breath by creating a conducive environment for bacterial growth.
• Antioxidant properties: Rosemary essential oil's antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals that can damage oral tissues and lead to bad breath, as well as protect against tooth decay and gum disease.

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

• Roots: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, making them effective against bacterial growth and reducing inflammation in the mouth.
• Barks: Containing volatile oils that can help freshen breath by inhibiting the growth of bacteria responsible for bad breath.

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

1. Harvest fresh rosmary leaves by cutting stems from established plants on a dry sunny morning at dawn.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using a dehydrator or oven on a low setting for 24 hours to reduce moisture content.
3. Steam distill the dried rosmary leaves in a still using a water bath and a condenser coil at atmospheric pressure.
4. Collect the distilled essential oil from the still head into dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids within 30 minutes of completion.
5. Filter the collected essential oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove any impurities before storing in a cool dark place for up to 6 months.

8. Cinnamomum verum

Ceylon cinnamon essential oils helps with bad breath because of its natural antibacterial properties, which target the bacteria responsible for causing halitosis.

The oil's active compounds, such as cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid, have been shown to inhibit the growth of anaerobic bacteria that thrive in the mouth and contribute to bad breath.

By killing these bacteria, Ceylon cinnamon essential oils help eliminate bad breath and leave the mouth feeling fresh and clean.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ceylon cinnamon essential oils that aid with bad breath.

• Antibacterial properties: Ceylon cinnamon essential oil has antibacterial properties that can help kill bacteria responsible for bad breath, such as Streptococcus mutans and E. coli.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: The anti-inflammatory compounds in Ceylon cinnamon essential oil can reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, which is often a contributing factor to bad breath.
• Antioxidant properties: The antioxidants present in Ceylon cinnamon essential oil can help neutralize free radicals that contribute to bad breath by reducing oxidative stress in the mouth and throat.

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

• Rhyzomes: Rich in cinnamon aldehyde, a compound with antibacterial properties that helps combat bad breath-causing bacteria.
• Barks: Containing cinnamaldehyde, a natural antimicrobial agent that reduces the growth of oral pathogens and freshens breath.
• Roots: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, roots help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with gum disease, a common cause of bad breath.

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

1. Harvest cinnamomum verum leaves in the morning when they are at their most aromatic.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using a food dehydrator on low heat for 24 hours.
3. Steam distill the dried leaves with water in a steam distillation apparatus for 4-6 hours.
4. Collect the essential oil that separates from the water in a separate container and store it in dark glass bottles.
5. Mix 10 drops of the cinnamomum verum essential oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil as a mouthwash for bad breath relief.

9. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel essential oils helps with bad breath because of its natural antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth.

These bacteria are responsible for causing bad breath, also known as halitosis. The oil's anti-inflammatory compounds also help to reduce gum inflammation and alleviate symptoms of gum disease, common culprits of bad breath.

Additionally, fennel essential oil has been shown to stimulate saliva production, which helps to wash away food particles and bacteria, leaving the mouth feeling fresh and clean.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel essential oils that aid with bad breath.

• Antimicrobial property: Fennel oil's antimicrobial properties help kill bacteria that cause bad breath, such as Streptococcus mutans and Escherichia coli, in the mouth and throat.
• Digestive aid property: Fennel oil's carminative properties help relieve digestive issues like bloating, gas, and indigestion, which can contribute to bad breath, by reducing inflammation and spasms in the digestive tract.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Fennel oil's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and redness in the gums, throat, and mouth tissues, which can be caused by gum disease, tonsillitis, or other infections that lead to bad breath.

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make essential oils for bad breath.

• Roots: Rich in volatile compounds, fennel roots are effective in reducing bad breath and gum inflammation.
• Seeds: The anise-like flavor and aroma of fennel seeds make them a natural remedy for freshening breath and alleviating digestive issues.

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

1. Harvest foeniculum vulgare leaves in the morning after dew has dried, choosing fresh and healthy plants.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using air circulation method at room temperature for 7-10 days to reduce moisture content.
3. Steam distill the dried foeniculum vulgare leaves with 30% water at atmospheric pressure for 2-3 hours to extract essential oil.
4. Filter the resulting distillate through a coffee filter or paper filter to separate essential oil from water and impurities.
5. Store the extracted foeniculum vulgare essential oil in dark glass bottle with tight-fitting lid, refrigerating at 40°f for up to 6 months.

10. Salvia officinalis

Sage essential oils helps with bad breath because of its natural antibacterial properties, which target the bacteria that cause halitosis.

The oil's antimicrobial compounds, such as camphor and borneol, work to eliminate odor-causing germs in the mouth and throat, leaving your breath fresh and clean. Additionally, sage oil's astringent properties help to dry up excess saliva, reducing the likelihood of bacterial growth and subsequent bad breath.

With regular use, herbal sage essential oils can leave you feeling confident with a healthy, refreshing smile.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage essential oils that aid with bad breath.

• Antimicrobial: Herbal sage essential oil has antimicrobial properties, which help to kill bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause bad breath (halitosis) by reducing their growth and preventing them from multiplying.
• Anti-inflammatory: Sage essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the gums, tongue, and throat tissues, alleviating mouth sores and gum disease that can contribute to bad breath.
• Antioxidant: Sage essential oil is rich in antioxidants, which help to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress in the body, reducing the risk of oral infections and other conditions that can cause bad breath.

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make essential oils for bad breath.

• Roots: Sage roots have a high concentration of volatile compounds, which help to neutralize and eliminate unpleasant odors in the mouth.
• Buds: Sage buds contain antioxidants and flavonoids that work together to reduce inflammation and bacteria in the oral cavity, combating bad breath.

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

1. Harvest high-quality fresh or dried leaves of salvia officinalis from reputable sources.
2. Steam-distill the plant material using a suitable apparatus and water ratio for 4-6 hours.
3. Collect the resulting essential oil and filter it through cheesecloth to remove impurities.
4. Transfer the filtered oil to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and store in a cool dry place for up to 2 years.
5. Use the final product at a concentration of 10-20 drops per mouthwash or add to toothpaste as desired.

How to best treat bad breath with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat bad breath with herbal essential oils is to blend Peppermint oil, which has natural antibacterial properties, with Lemon oil, which helps eliminate bacteria and freshens the mouth.

Add a few drops of Clove oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, to reduce gum inflammation and fight oral infections.

Mix these oils with water and swish in your mouth before spitting it out to leave your breath smelling fresh and clean.

What ailments similar to bad breath are treated with herbal essential oils?

Ailments similar to bad breath that are treated with herbal essential oils are halitosis, gum inflammation/essential-oils.html">inflammation, and tooth sensitivity.

Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties that help combat bacteria that cause bad breath. Peppermint oil's cooling properties can soothe gum inflammation, while eucalyptus oil's decongestant properties can ease sinus pressure that contributes to bad breath.

These essential oils can be used in mouthwashes, toothpaste, or as a natural remedy for a fresher, healthier mouth.