In a dental-related trial to escape from additional chemicals entering my body, I decided to make two homemade mouthwash recipes. Both were very easy with similar ingredients, but I definitely have a preference for the first one I tried, which is pictured here.
This first recipe called for 1 1/4 cups mineral or distilled water, 5 drops of peppermint essential oil, 5 drops of tea tree essential oil, and a pinch of stevia. The website notes the reasons for the ingredients (respectively) as the base, flavor, anti-bacterial, and sweetener. The tea tree oil is also said to fight gingivitis.
This recipe had surprisingly little flavor, but was pleasant to swish around in my mouth. It also left a nice, light peppermint aftertaste that was enjoyable. The recipe made a size-able quantity which would probably last me for at least a couple of weeks. I don’t see a need for refrigeration and will probably just keep it in the bathroom.
The second recipe called for 2 ounces of water, 1/4 tsp of baking soda or salt (I used salt), and one drop of each peppermint and tea tree essential oil. The flavor of this mouthwash was pretty overpowering- the tea tree oil and salt seemed to be fighting for the strongest taste. I also do not prefer the salty aftertaste in my mouth. Perhaps if I had used baking soda instead this would be a different story. I think the salt would be beneficial if I was fighting cold sores, but for now I think I’ll stick with the first recipe. If you try either of these out, or have your own homemade recipe to share, please let me know!
