A CLEANER APPROACH TO ORAL CARE: THE CASE FOR HOMEMADE MOUTHWASH
A simple, clean recipe for a balanced mouth biome.
In recent years, many of us have become more intentional about what we put in and on our bodies—from food choices to skincare to household cleaning products. But there’s one daily habit that’s often overlooked in the clean-living conversation: oral hygiene. And more specifically, mouthwash.
The majority of conventional mouthwashes promise to eliminate nearly all bacteria in the mouth. While this might sound like a win, it turns out that an indiscriminate approach to bacteria removal may actually do more harm than good.
What’s Really in Your Mouthwash?
Most commercial mouthwashes contain a cocktail of synthetic ingredients: alcohol, artificial dyes, preservatives, antimicrobial agents, and artificial sweeteners. These are designed to create that familiar tingling sensation and minty freshness—but at a cost.
What many don’t realize is that your mouth hosts a delicate microbiome, a community of both beneficial and harmful bacteria. When you consistently wipe out 99.9% of bacteria, you’re also eliminating the microbes that play a critical role in:
- Maintaining a healthy pH balance
- Protecting against harmful pathogens
- Supporting immune function and digestion starting in the mouth
Over time, this can lead to symptoms such as dry mouth, increased bad breath, oral sensitivity, and even systemic inflammation.
Why DIY Mouthwash is Worth Considering
Creating your own mouthwash at home may sound unconventional, but it's a practice rooted in simplicity and function. It allows you to:
- Avoid potentially harmful ingredients
- Support your natural oral microbiome
- Save money with accessible, everyday pantry items
- Customize for taste, sensitivity, or specific wellness goals
This particular formulation combines ingredients known for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties—making it a strong yet gentle alternative to store-bought options.
A Simple Recipe for Non-Toxic Homemade Mouthwash Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm, filtered water
- 2 teaspoons whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
(Note: Fractionated coconut oil stays liquid at room temperature and may be preferred for consistency.)
Instructions:
1. Boil water
2. Add the cloves and cinnamon sticks; let steep for 30-60 minutes.
3. Allow to cool, then add in the coconut oil and shake to blend.
4. Swish with 1–2 tablespoons for 1-2 minutes after brushing. Shake before use. We use this mason jar to store.
Ingredient Breakdown: Why These Work
Cloves
Cloves are known for their antibacterial and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. They’ve been used for centuries in oral care and can help fight harmful bacteria while soothing inflammation.
Anthony's Organic Whole Cloves
Cinnamon Sticks
Cinnamon isn't just for chai lattes. It’s a powerful antimicrobial that may help reduce bad breath and prevent plaque buildup. It also gives the mouthwash a warm, slightly spicy flavor.
Micro Ingredients Organic Cinnamon Sticks
Coconut Oil
This oil has natural antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal benefits. It’s often used in oil pulling because of its ability to bind to and remove toxins and bacteria from the mouth. It also helps reduce inflammation in the gums.
Garden Of Life Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
The Bottom Line
Clean oral hygiene doesn’t require a cabinet full of artificial products. With just a few ingredients from your pantry, you can create a mouthwash that supports—not strips—your natural defenses.
This small change not only simplifies your routine but also eliminates exposure to synthetic chemicals, supports your microbiome, and saves money in the long run. Because sometimes, less really is more—especially when it comes to what we put in our mouths.
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