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What Herbs Can Do For Your Bad Breath |
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Herbs are an essential ingredient in a lot of common recipes. Their distinct flavors add a special touch to an otherwise unappetizing meal. But did you know that many of these same herbs can also be used to eliminate bad breath? It's true, most ordinary cooking herbs are actually being used in many parts of the world as a natural alternative solution to the all too common problem of bad breath.
by DarrenWumoult
Herbs are an essential ingredient in a lot of common recipes. Their distinct flavors add a special touch to an otherwise unappetizing meal. But did you know that many of these same herbs can also be used to eliminate bad breath? It's true, most ordinary cooking herbs are actually being used in many parts of the world as a natural alternative solution to the all too common problem of bad breath.
Eucalyptus. This aromatic plant is native to Australia and was discovered years ago by the aborigines who used its roots as a source of water. Nowadays, the eucalyptus is most famous for the medicinal oil extracted from its leaves. This oil is widely used as a nasal decongestant because of its powerful effect on the nasal mucus receptors. Eucalyptus oil can also be inhaled in the form of vapor to alleviate symptoms of asthma, whooping cough, bronchitis or even emphysema.
However, this herb is best avoided internally as it can cause diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. You should not use the oil for infants under two years of age even for inhalation purposes because there is a danger or airway spasm leading to stoppage of breathing, a potentially fatal consequence. Then again the oil may increase bronchial spasms in asthmatics and shouldn't be ingested by people with severe liver disease or any inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract or kidney.
Thyme. This commonly used herb grows in many parts of the world but is very abundant in the cold climates of Europe and northern America. It contains several elements that can help reduce the symptoms of whooping cough such as spasms and mucus. Traditional European medicine makes use of the leaves and flowers of thyme as a common ingredient in many herbal drugs and supplements. Unlike eucalyptus which is extremely potent, the extracts of thyme have a very low toxin count, making them very safe to use even in infants.
Thyme is generally safe if used as indicated. However, a spasmodic cough, particularly in a young child, may be dangerous and a healthcare professional should be consulted before deciding on the proper course of treatment.
Myrrh. This is an ancient aromatic resin used by Egyptians centuries ago in the preservation of their dead. Today, owing to its distinct fragrance, myrrh is primarily used as an essential ingredient of perfumes and incense. In the field of herbal medicine, myrrh is useful for the treatment of leprosy, syphilis and other major infections. Lately, it has been discovered that myrrh is excellent for several dental conditions that can inadvertently cause bad bread or halitosis. Besides keeping your breath fresh, myrrh can also reduce inflammation in the mouth and the throat.
Bloodroot: This herb was used by Native Americans in rituals and in medicines. Its color was used as body paint. Bloodroot was used to treat cough, sore throats, rheumatic pains and even cancer. The main active compounds in this herb are alkaloids-primarily sanguinarine. Some toothpastes and other oral hygiene products may contain these because they are supposed to hinder bacteria growt.
Because of its natural toxins, bloodroot can be dangerous if ingested in excessive doses.
Caraway: This herb has been used medically for centuries. Its seeds help in digestion and also aid in easing colic pain, especially in children. It is a carminative; therefore it is used in helping gastrointestinal discomfort.
Caraway is generally safe for internal use. However, children should not use the purified volatile oil under two years of age, as oil from caraway and other herbs in the Umbelliferrae family can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes.
Peppermint. This is another common herb that is also used for medicinal purposes. Falling under the carminative category, peppermint is good for digestion because it helps to expel excess gas from the body.
Peppermint tea is generally considered safe for regular consumption. Peppermint oil can cause burning and gastrointestinal upset in some people.
Sage. For centuries, this herb has been used in thousands of recipes all over the world. Medically, sage leaves have a record of being an effective cure for sprains, inflammation and external wounds. In addition, sage extract can be used as a mouthwash to help eliminate infection from oral bacteria, as well as to treat sore throats and mild cough.
Sage is safe to use if taken in the prescribed doses, but excessive internal use can lead to seizures.
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