Bad breath results from odour-producing bacteria that thrive in the mouth when oral hygiene is neglected. These bacteria feed on food particles left on the teeth, releasing sulfur compounds that create an unpleasant odour. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to bad breath as their pungent oils enter the bloodstream and reach the lungs, affecting breath. Smoking is another major culprit. Other factors that can cause bad breath include:
Diet.
Dry Mouth.
Tobacco Products.
Medical conditions like gum disease, throat infections, respiratory tract infections, diabetes, liver disease, or kidney disorders.
Dentures and dental appliances like braces can trap bacteria, leading to bad breath.
Overnight bacterial buildup often results in foul-smelling breath upon waking commonly referred to as morning breath.
Breathing through the mouth at night can dry it out, intensifying bad breath.
Stomach disturbances can contribute to throat infections and unpleasant breath.
Symptoms of Bad Breath
Persistent foul-smelling breath.
Unpleasant or altered taste.
Dry mouth and tongue coating.
Home Remedies for Bad Breath
Mix 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil in a cup of water, gargle, and rinse with plain water.
Add 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of cold water, gargle for 3-5 minutes, then rinse with plain water.
Chew fresh parsley leaves to neutralize bad breath.
Boil 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder with basil leaves in a cup of water, let it cool, and use it as a mouth rinse.
Chew coriander seeds to refresh your breath.
Gargling with Triphala decoction helps in oral hygiene.
Chew liquorice root for a natural breath freshener.
Chewing cinnamon can help reduce bad breath.
Eating celery, carrots, and apples helps remove plaque buildup that contributes to bad breath.
Saltwater gargle helps eliminate bacteria from the throat and tonsils.
Soak raisins overnight and suck on them throughout the day to prevent bad breath.
Swish warm sesame oil in your mouth to remove toxins.
Gargling with Irimedadi oil is effective in treating bad breath.
Things to Do & Avoid
Do's:
Maintain good digestion and treat throat infections to reduce bad breath.
Floss, gargle after meals and brush your teeth twice a day.
Use a neem twig or karanj (Pongamia pinnata) as a natural toothbrush to reduce bacterial infections.
Don'ts:
Avoid consuming garlic, onions, and sulfur-rich foods before bedtime or midday naps.
Avoid acidic foods, as acid reflux can worsen bad breath.
