Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for not only a bright smile but also for overall health. Brushing and flossing regularly are important, but using a mouthwash can also be beneficial. It helps to freshen breath, prevent plaque and gingivitis, and reduce the risk of cavities. However, store-bought mouthwashes can be expensive and may contain chemicals that can be harmful to our health in the long run.
According to a recent study, commonly used alcohol-based mouthwashes may have adverse effects on oral microbiomes, the community of bacteria that live in the mouth, raising risks of periodontal diseases and some cancers.
The oral microbiome plays a role in digestion and keeps the mouth healthy.
The research, published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology, included men who have sex with men, who regularly use mouthwash as a method to reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.
Three months of daily use of the alcohol-based mouthwash increased the amount of two species of opportunistic bacteria -- Fusobacterium nucleatum and Streptococcus anginosus -- in the mouth of these men, said the team from the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) in Antwerp, Belgium.
The two bacteria are known to raise the risk of gum disease, and oesophageal and colorectal cancers.
Further, the researchers also observed a decrease in a bacteria group called Actinobacteria, crucial for regulating blood pressure.
“Alcohol-based mouthwashes are widely available. The public may use them daily to tackle bad breath or prevent periodontitis, but they should be aware of the potential implications. Ideally, long-term usage should be guided by healthcare professionals,” said Dr Jolein Laumen, from ITM’s Unit of Sexually Transmitted Infections.
The researchers also called for larger studies to establish the risk.
But don't worry, there are some simple and natural alternatives to store-bought mouthwashes that you can make at home. Not only are these DIY mouthwashes cost-effective, but they also use natural ingredients that are gentle on your teeth and gums. So let's dive into the five easy DIY mouthwashes you can make at home.
Peppermint Mouthwash
Peppermint is known for its refreshing and cooling properties, making it a perfect ingredient for mouthwash. To make this mouthwash, you will need 1 cup of distilled water, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 3 drops of peppermint essential oil, and 2 drops of tea tree essential oil.
Start by boiling the distilled water and then letting it cool down. Once it has cooled, add the baking soda, peppermint essential oil, and tea tree essential oil to it. Mix well and pour it into a bottle or jar with a lid. Shake well before each use and swish around in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Spit it out and rinse your mouth with water.
Cinnamon Mouthwash
Cinnamon is another spice that not only adds a nice flavour to our food but also has antibacterial properties that make it an excellent ingredient for a DIY mouthwash. To make this mouthwash, you will need 1 cup of distilled water, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder, and 1 tablespoon of raw honey.
Boil the distilled water and then let it cool down. Add the cinnamon powder and raw honey to it and mix well. Pour it into a bottle or jar with a lid and shake well before each use. Swish the mouthwash in your mouth for about 30 seconds and then spit it out. Rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
Apple Cider Vinegar Mouthwash
Apple cider vinegar has been gaining popularity for its numerous health benefits, and it can also be used as a mouthwash. To make this mouthwash, you will need 1 cup of distilled water, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 3 drops of peppermint essential oil.
Mix all the ingredients in a bottle or jar with a lid. Shake well before each use and swish in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Spit it out and rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
Green Tea Mouthwash
Green tea is not only a healthy beverage but can also be used as a natural mouthwash. To make this mouthwash, you will need 1 cup of distilled water, 1 green tea bag, 1 tablespoon of raw honey, and 3 drops of peppermint essential oil.
Steep the green tea bag in boiled distilled water for about 5 minutes. Let it cool down and then add raw honey and peppermint essential oil to it. Mix well and pour it into a bottle or jar with a lid. Shake well before each use and swish in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Spit it out and rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
Neem Mouthwash
Neem has been used for centuries in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties, and it can also be used as a mouthwash. To make this mouthwash, you will need 1 cup of distilled water, 1 tablespoon of neem powder, and 3 drops of peppermint essential oil.
Boil the distilled water and then let it cool down. Add neem powder and peppermint essential oil to it and mix well. Pour it into a bottle or jar with a lid and shake well before each use. Swish the mouthwash in your mouth for about 30 seconds and then spit it out. Rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
(With IANS Inputs)
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