Oral care10 min
Mint and Ajwain Rinse for Bad Breath After Meals
Fresh mint leaves and a pinch of ajwain steeped in hot water, cooled and used as a rinse to freshen breath after strong-smelling meals.
Pudina in everyday Indian homes
Pudina (mint) is cooling and fresh, used in chutney, raita and summer drinks. Mint can ease a heavy stomach for some people, though it may worsen heartburn in others.
Mint and ajwain are both strongly aromatic and traditional mouth fresheners. Ajwain contains thymol, an antiseptic used in some commercial mouthwashes. A homemade rinse masks odours briefly; lasting fresh breath comes from cleaning teeth and tongue.
Ingredients
- 10 fresh mint leaves
- ¼ tsp ajwain
- 1 cup hot water
How to prepare
- Steep mint and ajwain for 10 minutes; cool and strain.
How to use
- Swish for 30 seconds after meals and spit.
- Clean your tongue daily with a scraper.
Helpful habits
- Keep mint stems in a glass of water in the fridge; they stay fresh longer.
Precautions
- Persistent bad breath can come from gum disease, sinus problems, diabetes or reflux; see a doctor or dentist.
- Skip if mint makes your heartburn worse.
- Keep brushing twice a day; see a dentist for pain, swelling or an ulcer lasting over two weeks.
- If you take regular medicines or have a long-term condition, check with your doctor first.
Frequently asked questions
Can I chew mint leaves instead?
- Yes, chewing a few leaves works too.
How long does the rinse keep?
- A day in the fridge.
Dried mint or fresh?
- Fresh is brighter; dried mint powder is fine for raita and chaas.
