Monday, February 8, 2016

Essential Oils and Halitosis

Essential Oils and Halitosis



Halitosis: Peppermint, Armor, Lavender 

Halitosis Definition: a condition of having offensive-smelling breath; bad breath (Dictionary.com).

Applications:

Mix 1 - 2 drops oil of choice (Peppermint, Armor, or Lavender) with 4 oz. water and use as a mouth rinse.

A dental check is recommended if you have bad breath, as bad teeth are a common source. Stomach upsets and insufficient gastric acids can also cause bad breath. Depending on their formulation, mouthwashes can be used to sweeten the breath, keep bacteria and fungus infections at bay and ensure healthy gums (Purchon, 190).


Additional information:

Valerie Worwood, in her book, The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, states that Peppermint essential oil should be kept in “Your Basic Care Kit.” She says, “It is a good oil in the treatment of indigestion, flatulence, bad breath, flu, catarrh, varicose veins, headaches, migraines, skin irritations, rheumatism, toothache and fatigue. It even keeps mice, fleas, and ants away!” (p. 20)

Halitosis happens to everyone at some point. Bad breath is sometimes caused by the foods you eat, but bacteria are more often the culprit. Brushing and flossing at least twice daily removes food particles, preventing bacterial buildup; natural remedies help eliminate even more bacteria. Keep your mouth moist to help prevent halitosis. Saliva naturally cleanses and refreshes your mouth (Althea, 81).


Althea Press. Essential Oils, Natural Remedies: The Complete A-Z Reference of Essential Oils for Health and Healing. (2015).
Purchon, Nerys and Lora Cantele. The Complete Aromatherapy & Essential Oil Handbook for Everyday Wellness. (2014).

Worwood, Valerie. The complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy. (1991).