Healthy mouthwash recipe for fresh, healthy teeth and gums

This recipe is a healthy safe alternative to commercial mouthwashes that kill all types of bacteria, not just the bad ones. The ingredients here have several properties to kill bad bacteria that promote bad breath and tooth decay and which also increase good bacteria in the mouth.

How it works

• Bicarbonate of soda: Reduces acidity in the mouth, which discourages bad bacteria and allows good bacteria to thrive in an alkaline environment.

  
  

• Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt: Breaks down bad bacteria biofilms.

  
  

• Xylotol: a natural plant-derived ingredient that starves bacteria responsible for bad breath, tooth decay, plaque and enamel erosion. Breaks down biofilms, fights gum disease and boosts remineralisation.

  
  

• Sweet orange oil: a safe alternative to mint oils (that can aggressively kill good bacteria) which also removes stains on teeth.

Healthy mouthwash recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

• pinch of sea salt or Himalayan pink salt

• 1 tsp xylitol granules

• 2 drops food grade sweet orange oil (e.g Young Living brand) 1 cup distilled or filtered water

Method

1. In a clean glass jar (with a lid), add dry ingredients.

2. Add orange oil and leave for 10-15 seconds Mix all ingredients together in a clean jar with a lid.

3. Add water, screw lid on tightly and shake for a few seconds to mix.

4. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

   
   

How to use

1. Swill a small amount in your mouth and spit out completely.

2. Avoid rinsing your mouth afterwards.

3. Ideally, avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes afterwards to get the full therapeutic benefits. Caution: Keep xylitol away from dogs.