Home Remedies for Bad Breath

Bad breath, which is often referred to as halitosis, is not very uncommon. To check whether you have bad breath, blow on a handkerchief or on your hand, and immediately smell it. If it smells bad, you have bad breath.

Causes of Bad Breath: Bad breath is generally caused by infected gums or teeth. Cavities or a tooth abscess may become filled with foul smelling pus causing bad breath. Sinus problems or other respiratory problems like chronic tonsillitis or bronchitis may also cause bad breath. Gastro-intestinal upsets such as constipation or indigestion are other causes. Bad breath can also be caused by diet deficiencies such as not eating regularly, being dehydrated, eating excessive high protein foods or having minerals (for example zinc) deficiencies. Smoking, stress, mouth sores, or even certain drugs and medications like antihistamines can lead to bad breath.

Bad Breath Home Remedies: There are many simple bad breath home remedies that you can use in order to get rid of this problem.

Fenugreek is an effective home remedy for bad breath. Make a tea by soaking a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in 2 cups of water. Allow this to simmer over low heat for 5 minutes. Strain and drink this liquid 3 to 4 times a day.

Treatment for Bad Breath: Bad breath can also be treated by eating avocado, guava, or apples, especially after meals. Not only do they clean the food particle between the teeth, and prevent decomposition, they contain useful nutrients which fight bad breath. Guava has manganese, calcium and oxalate, along with oxalic, tannic and phosphoric acids, which helps cure bleeding gums. Chewing guavas or even the tender guava leaves, helps to strengthen the teeth and gums and fight bad breath.

Parsley is another one of the many bad breath home remedies. You can either chew raw parsley or make a tea or gargle your mouth with a solution of it. Chop a few sprigs of parsley and allow it to steep in half a liter of water along with a few whole cloves. Cool and strain this liquid and use it as a mouthwash after your meals. Some people even like to take a few sips of this refreshing liquid during the day.

A balanced diet can play an important role in preventing bad breath. Juices of fruits and raw vegetables are especially useful since they help proper functioning of the digestive system, leading to proper flushing out of toxic wastes from the body. Include plenty of nuts, grains, seeds, vegetables and fruits in your daily diet. Have a balanced mix of cooked and raw vegetables. Try to avoid the excessive intake of eggs and meat, as well as refined carbohydrates.

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and cleaning your mouth after every meal.