Natural ways to combat bad breath

The first thing we catch about a person is their smell. It is really important to smell fresh and good, but sometimes bad breath can affect our presence and confidence. Bad breath also called halitosis can cause problems for both the person speaking and the one listening. It can lead to social anxiety, low self-esteem, and embarrassment.

Is it permanent? No. There are natural ways to combat bad breath and reclaim your confidence and well-being.

Understanding the causes of bad breath

To cut down bad breath we need to understand and identify what causes bad breath in the first place and then take charge of it. However, it is necessary to consult a doctor for a detailed analysis of the causes and treatments. Below are some causes of bad breath:

1. Bad oral hygiene: As expected, this is one of the most common causes of bad breath. The bacteria in our mouths break down the leftover food stuck in our mouths, which can also be trapped in our tongue and dentures which causes a foul smell.
2. Dry mouth: Saliva produced by our mouth is involved in cleaning the mouth by washing it frequently, but sometimes there is not enough saliva produced, which causes the mouth to remain dry and develop a bad smell.
3. Gum diseases: Gum diseases can hinder mouth hygiene and cause bad breath.
4. Medicines: Some medicines cause dry mouth, leading to a bad smell.
5. Mouth infection: Surgical wounds after a mouth surgery, such as tooth removal,  tooth decay, gum disease, or mouth sores, can cause a foul smell.
6. Food: Certain types of food such as garlic, onion, and spices can trigger a bad odour.
7. Infection in the throat, nasal area, and lungs: Clotting of liquid in the cause of pneumonia can cause bad breath.
8. Tobacco products: Smoking tobacco causes foul mouth odour. Tobacco users also are more prone to gum diseases, another source of bad breath.

Natural remedies to combat bad breath

We just saw the causes of bad breath. There are a number of ways to treat it. It is advised to consult a doctor before coming to any conclusion and to get a detailed examination of the problem and ways to treat it. 

Here are some natural remedies to prevent bad breath that you can practise at home. Let’s have a look.

1. Maintaining oral hygiene: Brush twice a day, clean your tongue nicely, and rinse after every meal to combat bad breath. It is the easiest and most recommended. 
2. Stay hydrated: Hydrating is not only good for your healthy well-being, but it also helps get rid of mouth odour naturally by eliminating dry mouth. 
3. Green tea: Green tea acts as an antioxidant made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which can help combat the bacteria which is causing bad odour.
4. Avoid tobacco: Tobacco not only causes bad breath but it can affect your health, it is highly unhealthy.
5. Yogurt: Yogurt helps reduce the odour-causing bacteria, so consuming yogurt can greatly help.
6. Cardamom, clove, and fennel: Chewing cardamom, clove, or fennel helps to get rid of mouth odour. These inhibit the growth of odour-causing microorganisms. 
7. Basil leaves: Basil leaves are proven to have many health benefits, it can help treat mouth ulcers and infections.

Foods that reduce bad breath

There are foods that can help you prevent bad breath naturally.  You can consume these for a healthy and fresh mouth.

1. Raw fruits and vegetables: Crunchy raw fruits and vegetables when chewed help generate more saliva to prevent bad breath.
2. Yogurt: Yogurt helps stop the growth of the odour-causing bacteria in your mouth.
3. Green tea: Green tea is laden with antioxidants to reduce mouth odour. 
4. Water: Water cleanses the mouth at the same time preventing dry mouth.
5. Cardamom, clove, and fennel: These inhibit the growth of odour-causing microorganisms, chewing them can help combat bad breath. 

Conclusion

Our body always gives us signs when there is something wrong with our health. It is extremely important to give an ear to it. Bad breath is one such call by our body. Bad breath is a common issue with various causes. It is necessary to prioritise oral hygiene and treat the cause of mouth odour. Fresh breath helps restore confidence and enhance social interactions. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main causes of bad breath?

There are numerous causes of bad breath but the main causes of bad breath are.

1. Poor oral hygiene
2. Dry mouth
3. Consumption of tobacco
4. Mouth infections or diseases

How can I combat bad breath naturally?

Bad breath can hinder your self-esteem and reduce confidence. There are natural ways in which you can get rid of bad breath.

1. Practise regular oral hygiene
2. Stay hydrated
3. Avoid tobacco
4. Chew cardamom, fennel and clove
5. Green tea

Are there any foods that can help reduce bad breath?

Yes, there are foods that can help reduce bad breath. These are as follows:

1. Yogurt
2. Raw vegetables and fruits
3. Basil leaves
4. Cardamom, clove and fennel
5. Green tea

What are some effective home remedies to reduce mouth odour?

There are some effective home remedies known to reduce mouth odour. Here is a list of the remedies you can try at home to cure naturally.

1. Maintain oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning.
2. Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth.
3. Gargle your mouth with lukewarm water and salt.
4. Chew cardamom, clove, and fennel for a quick change in mouth odour.

Can certain lifestyle habits contribute to bad breath?

Yes, your lifestyle choices define your health conditions and well-being. Bad breath can be a product of poor life choices. If you are consuming too much sugar, smoking tobacco, and staying dehydrated then you ought to have a bad breath. It is necessary to identify the cause and treat it as early as possible, and consult a doctor for a detailed and personalised analysis of the problem.