Herbs can help check bad breath

New Delhi: Bad breath can be a serious cause of embarrassment in social circles. Some people with bad breath are not even aware it.

Bad breath or halitosis is caused by odour-producing bacteria that grow in the mouth due to various reasons including dirty teeth, digestion problems and smoking.

The sulfur compounds released by the bacteria results in bad breath.

Certain foods, especially garlic and onions, can contribute to bad breath because they contain pungent oils that are carried to your lungs that are out through your mouth.

Mints, mouthwashes and other products help control bad breath, only temporarily. Certain herbal preparations are known to have a lasting effect.

Parsley (prajmoda) mouthwash is a very effective remedy for bad breath. Coarsely chopped parsley sprigs and two or three whole cloves or quarter tablespoon ground cloves are boiled in two cups of water.

This mixture is stirred frequently while cooling. It is strained and can be used as a mouthwash or gargle several times a day.

Oral hygiene is an essential element of keeping breath fresh. Basil (Tulsi) leaves can be chewed to cure mouth ulcers and infections.

Powder obtained by drying the basil leaves in the sun can be mixed in mustard oil to make toothpaste.

It is effective in maintaining dental health, countering bad breath and for massaging the gums. It is also useful in pyorrhea and other teeth disorders.

Tea made from fenugreek seeds (methi) is beneficial in bad breath and body odour.

Unpleasant odours emanate from the body due to accumulation of hardened mucus and other toxins in the nasal and oral passages, gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, blood and vagina.

Fenugreek seeds moistened with water become slightly mucilaginous and help to dissolve sticky substances like mucus.

Fenugreek tea taken regularly helps remove accumulations from these spots where mouthwash and soap can never penetrate.

While, cinnamon (dalchini) serves as a good mouth freshener, the aromatic flavoured cardamom (chhoti elaichi) seeds can be chewed for a brief period to remove foul smell.

Dill (sowa) seeds can also be chewed to cure bad breath. Caraway seed (siya jeera) oil is used orally in overcoming bad breath or insipid taste.