9 Best Herbal Teas For Bad Breath

Herbal teas for bad breath are natural remedies made from plant extracts that are used to combat unpleasant odors in the mouth.

These teas can effectively treat bad breath, also known as halitosis, due to their antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the growth of bacteria and inflammation in the mouth.

Various herbal teas, such as peppermint, chamomile, and eucalyptus, can be used to treat bad breath, as they help to freshen breath, soothe gums, and reduce inflammation.

Other examples of herbal teas that can be used to treat bad breath include licorice root, sage, and fennel, which have been shown to reduce the growth of bacteria and freshen breath due to their antibacterial properties.

Below there's a list of the 9 best herbal teas for bad breath.

1. Mentha x piperita teas

Mentha x piperita teas, commonly known as peppermint tea, have been used for centuries to treat bad breath, also known as halitosis.

The antiseptic and antibacterial properties of peppermint tea help to reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth, which is often the cause of bad breath.

The bioactive constituents, including menthone, menthol, and limonene, found in peppermint tea have been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, making it an effective remedy for bad breath.

By consuming peppermint tea, individuals can experience a fresh and clean breath, and the benefits of improved oral health and reduced risk of gum disease.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh peppermint leaves (Mentha x piperita) and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Measure 1 tablespoon of honey (optional) and set aside.
3. Steep the peppermint leaves in boiling water for 5-7 minutes, then strain the liquid.
4. Add the measured honey (if using) to the peppermint liquid and stir well.
5. Drink the peppermint tea hot or cold as needed to help freshen bad breath.

Mentha x piperita teas can be used to help alleviate bad breath, but its consumption may lead to possible side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, or allergic reactions in some individuals.

To safely use Mentha x piperita teas to treat bad breath, it is essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, and to avoid consuming the tea on an empty stomach to minimize stomach upset.

2. Eucalyptus globulus teas

Eucalyptus globulus teas have been traditionally used to treat bad breath due to their deodorizing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive constituents present in Eucalyptus globulus teas, such as eucalyptol and cineole, help to reduce the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath.

This herbal preparation works by inhibiting the production of volatile sulfur compounds, which are the primary cause of bad breath, and also by reducing inflammation in the mouth and gums.

The benefits of using Eucalyptus globulus teas to treat bad breath include a reduction in the occurrence of halitosis, improvement in oral health, and a freshening of the breath.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of boiling water and 1 tablespoon of dried Eucalyptus globulus leaves.
2. Measure 1 teaspoon of honey (optional) for added sweetness.
3. Steep the Eucalyptus leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the leaves.
5. Drink the Eucalyptus tea warm or at room temperature, adding honey if desired.

Eucalyptus globulus teas can be used to treat bad breath, but it may cause side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, and dizziness due to its strong essential oils, especially if consumed in excess.

To avoid these side effects, it's essential to start with small amounts and gradually increase the dose, also be cautious when combining it with other medications or herbal preparations, and avoid consuming it before bedtime.

3. Zingiber officinale teas

Zingiber officinale teas, also known as ginger tea, have been traditionally used to treat bad breath or halitosis due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

These properties help to reduce the bacterial growth in the mouth, thus preventing the accumulation of volatile sulfur compounds that cause bad breath.

The bioactive constituents of ginger tea, including gingerols and shogaols, have been found to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, which contribute to its effectiveness in treating bad breath.

The benefits of using ginger tea to treat bad breath include its ability to freshen breath, reduce inflammation, and prevent the formation of plaque and tartar, making it a natural and effective remedy for this common ailment.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried Zingiber officinale root and 1 cup of water.
2. Boil the water in a pot and reduce heat.
3. Add the dried Zingiber officinale root to the water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the root.
5. Drink the tea hot or let it cool down to use as a mouthwash for bad breath.

Zingiber officinale teas can be used to potentially treat bad breath, but it may cause side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea in some individuals due to its active compounds like gingerols and shogaols.

When using Zingiber officinale teas for this purpose, it's essential to start with small amounts and gradually increase the dose, as consuming large quantities may exacerbate the side effects and interact with other medications, such as blood thinners.

4. Cinnamomum verum teas

Cinnamomum verum teas have been traditionally used to treat bad breath, a condition often caused by oral infections or gum disease, due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive constituents of this herbal preparation, including cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, help to reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, thereby alleviating bad breath.

Cinnamomum verum teas also exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy oral environment.

The benefits of using Cinnamomum verum teas to treat bad breath include a reduction in the severity and frequency of episodes, as well as improved overall oral health.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon cinnamon) bark and 1 cup of water.
2. Crush the Cinnamomum verum bark into small pieces to release its flavor.
3. Boil the cup of water in a pot and add the crushed Cinnamomum verum bark.
4. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the mixture into a cup.
5. Drink the Cinnamomum verum tea hot to help reduce bad breath.

Cinnamomum verum teas can be an effective remedy for treating bad breath, but it may cause side effects such as digestive issues, stomach upset, and allergic reactions in some individuals, especially when consumed in large quantities.

To use Cinnamomum verum teas safely, it is recommended to start with small doses, avoid mixing it with other medications or herbal remedies, and be cautious when consuming it if you have sensitive teeth or gums.

5. Rosmarinus officinalis teas

Rosmarinus officinalis teas have been traditionally used to treat bad breath, also known as halitosis, due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce bacteria growth in the mouth and gums.

The bioactive constituents of Rosmarinus officinalis teas, including carnosic acid and rosmanol, exhibit antimicrobial properties that help to combat the bacteria causing bad breath.

Regular consumption of Rosmarinus officinalis teas can help to freshen breath, reduce inflammation, and promote oral health, making it an effective remedy for this common ailment.

Additionally, the antioxidant properties of Rosmarinus officinalis teas help to protect the mouth and gums from oxidative stress, further contributing to its benefits in treating bad breath.

Recipe:

1. Get 1 tablespoon of dried Rosmarinus officinalis leaves.
2. Put the dried leaves in a cup and add 8 ounces of boiling water.
3. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into another cup and discard the leaves.
5. Drink the tea immediately to help freshen your breath.

Rosmarinus officinalis teas can be effective in treating bad breath, but its use may also cause side effects such as allergic reactions, stomach upset, and interactions with medications like blood thinners and diabetes medications.

To minimize the risks, it is essential to start with small doses, monitor blood pressure and sugar levels, and avoid consuming Rosmarinus officinalis teas with other herbal preparations that have similar properties.

6. Thymus vulgaris teas

Thymus vulgaris teas have been traditionally used to treat bad breath, also known as halitosis, due to their antimicrobial properties that help eliminate the underlying causes of the condition.

The active compounds present in Thymus vulgaris teas, such as thymol and carvacrol, possess antibacterial and antifungal properties that help combat the growth of bacteria and fungi in the mouth, thereby reducing bad breath.

The benefits of using Thymus vulgaris teas to treat bad breath include their ability to freshen breath, reduce gum inflammation, and prevent the formation of plaque, ultimately promoting a healthy oral environment.

The bioactive constituents of Thymus vulgaris teas, particularly thymol, exhibit strong antimicrobial activity, which helps to eliminate the root causes of bad breath, making it an effective herbal remedy for this common ailment.

Recipe:

1. Get 1 cup of boiling water and 1 tablespoon of dried thyme leaves (Thymus vulgaris).
2. Steep the thyme leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the water using a tea strainer or a piece of cheesecloth to remove the thyme leaves.
4. Let the tea cool down for a few minutes before using it.
5. Use the thyme tea as a mouthwash or gargle to help freshen bad breath.

Thymus vulgaris teas can be an effective remedy for treating bad breath, but it may cause side effects such as an increased heart rate, dizziness, and allergic reactions in some individuals.

To use Thymus vulgaris teas safely, it is essential to start with small doses, avoid consuming it before bedtime, and be cautious when combining it with other herbal preparations or medications.

7. Salvia officinalis teas

Salvia officinalis teas have been traditionally used to treat bad breath, also known as halitosis, due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

These properties help to reduce the levels of volatile sulfur compounds responsible for bad breath by inhibiting the growth of bacteria in the mouth.

The bioactive constituents of Salvia officinalis, including thujone, camphor, and rosmarinic acid, contribute to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, making it an effective herbal preparation for treating this ailment.

The benefits of using Salvia officinalis teas to treat bad breath include its ability to freshen breath, reduce plaque and gum inflammation, and promote overall oral health.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Salvia officinalis leaves and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Place the leaves in a large mug and pour the boiling water over them.
3. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain it into another mug.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the tea, if desired, to sweeten it.
5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day to help freshen breath and reduce bad breath.

Salvia officinalis teas can be used to treat bad breath, but possible side effects may include digestive discomfort, allergic reactions, and interactions with certain medications, particularly those used to treat diabetes or high blood pressure.

Precautions when using Salvia officinalis teas to treat bad breath include avoiding excessive consumption, which may exacerbate digestive issues, and being cautious when combining with other herbs or substances that may affect blood sugar levels.

8. Lavandula angustifolia teas

Lavandula angustifolia teas, derived from the lavender plant, have been traditionally used to treat bad breath due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal preparation helps to treat this ailment by reducing the growth of bacteria in the mouth, thereby preventing the production of volatile sulfur compounds responsible for bad breath.

The bioactive constituents of Lavandula angustifolia teas, including linalool and linalyl acetate, exhibit antimicrobial activity against various oral pathogens, making them an effective natural remedy for bad breath.

The benefits of using Lavandula angustifolia teas to treat bad breath include their non-invasive nature, absence of side effects, and ability to promote a healthy oral environment.

Recipe:

1. Get 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of dried Lavandula angustifolia flowers to a tea infuser.
3. Steep the flowers in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the flowers.
5. Drink the tea to help freshen bad breath.

Lavandula angustifolia teas can be used to treat bad breath, but it may cause stomach upset, nausea, and dizziness in some individuals, especially when consumed in large amounts or without proper dilution.

To use Lavandula angustifolia teas safely, it is essential to drink it in moderation, avoid mixing it with other medications or herbal remedies, and monitor your body's reaction to prevent potential allergic reactions.

9. Cymbopogon citratus teas

Cymbopogon citratus teas, derived from the West Indian lemon grass plant, have been traditionally used to treat bad breath due to their potent antimicrobial properties.

The presence of bioactive constituents such as citral, limonene, and geraniol in this herbal preparation helps to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, thereby reducing the symptoms of bad breath.

These constituents also exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which aid in soothing the gums and reducing inflammation, further contributing to the alleviation of bad breath.

The benefits of Cymbopogon citratus teas in treating bad breath include their ability to freshen breath, promote oral health, and provide a natural and non-invasive solution for individuals suffering from this common ailment.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Cymbopogon citratus leaves and 2 cups of boiling water.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of honey to a cup and mix with 1/2 cup of the Cymbopogon citratus infusion.
3. Strain the liquid into a separate cup and discard the solids.
4. Drink the Cymbopogon citratus tea 2-3 times a day for bad breath relief.
5. Store leftover tea in the fridge for up to 24 hours and reheat before drinking.

Cymbopogon citratus teas can be an effective remedy for bad breath due to its antimicrobial properties, but possible side effects may include allergic reactions, digestive issues, and interactions with certain medications such as blood thinners, which may increase the risk of bleeding.

To minimize these risks, it is recommended to start with a small dose, monitor your body's response, and avoid using Cymbopogon citratus teas if you have sensitive stomach or allergies, and to also be cautious when consuming it with other medications.