 Nature's
Way
with Alan Hayes
Bad breath (halitosis) is a common problem that often comes from the activity of bacteria in the mouth, or as a result of congestion in the colon. Although there is no way of knowing for sure, most adults probably suffer from bad breath occasionally, with perhaps a quarter suffering on a regular basis.
Common symptoms of bad breath are dryness in the mouth, insufficient saliva flow, poor cleaning between the teeth, postnasal drip on the back of the tongue, an onset of throat infection, dentures kept in the mouth at night or not cleaned properly, poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or excessive bacterial activity on the tongue.
Some people suffer from bad breath without knowing it, while others build up exaggerated fears about a breath odour even though they do not have it. The best way to find out whether you have bad breath is to ask someone else's opinion. If you don't ask, other people are unlikely to tell you.
If you have reason to believe that there is a problem, add two drops of peppermint oil to a cup of warm water, gargle for a few minutes and rinse. Repeat as often as needed. Or try chewing a fragrant cardamom pod two or three times a day. Parsley is also a natural breath freshener, and eating a few sprigs after a meal will help.
An increased fibre content helps bowl regularity, and so counters the problem from the inside by reducing gas pressure build-up. Include plenty of peas, potatoes, bananas, brown rice and barley in your diet.
The following 'Green Herbal Drink' is also excellent for bad breath, as well as being highly nutritious and cleansing. Make this fresh each day and drink morning and night.
Process in a blender, 250 grams of wild herbs (chickweed, Fat Hen, dandelion - mixed or on their own), two tablespoons of finely chopped parsley and/or watercress or celery, one teaspoon of cider vinegar, one small carrot, chopped, 250 grams of fruit (apple, peaches, pineapple or watermelon), and one cup of liquid too dilute (orange juice, pineapple juice, vegetable broth or mineral water). Drink immediately.
Gargling with a herbal mouth wash morning and night after cleaning your teeth, or whenever needed will also help to eliminate bad breath.
Add to a ceramic bowl, one teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves or a peppermint tea bag and ten cloves. Pour half a litre boiling water over the ingredients. Add half a cup of apple cider vinegar, cover and steep for twenty-four hours. Strain through clean, sterile muslin cloth and then drip through coffee filter paper. Store in a tightly sealed glass bottle.
This mouthwash will not only keep your breath fresh, but it will also help to keep the gums in a healthy condition.
If bad breath is a result of Gingivitis, use the following mouthwash as required: dilute two drops each of lemon and eucalyptus oils, and one drop of lavender oil in one teaspoon of vodka. Blend the mixture with a cup of warm water, then rinse, but do not swallow. Any excess mouthwash can be kept in the refrigerator. Warm before using.
If bad breath persists, it would be wise to consult your health practitioner.
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