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Core Ingredients:
1 cup of distilled water: Acts as the base for your mouthwash.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Neutralizes acids in the mouth and helps scrub away plaque.
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: A natural tartar remover that also balances the pH of your mouth.
Optional Add-ins:
1 teaspoon coconut oil: Provides antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Great for oil-pulling and maintaining oral hygiene.
1-2 drops of mint essential oil: Adds a refreshing flavor and promotes fresh breath.
1 teaspoon aloe vera gel: Soothes gums and fights bacteria, making it ideal for people with sensitive gums.
1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Contains essential minerals that help maintain tooth enamel and promote a healthy mouth environment.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Mouthwash
1. Prepare the Base
Start by pouring 1 cup of distilled water into a clean glass jar or bottle. Using distilled water ensures the mouthwash is free from impurities that can be found in tap water.
2. Add Baking Soda and Vinegar
Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to the water. Baking soda is a natural alkaline that neutralizes acids in the mouth and acts as a mild abrasive to gently scrub teeth and prevent plaque buildup.
Stir in 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Vinegar is acidic and can help break down tartar and kill bacteria.
3. Incorporate Coconut Oil (Optional)
If you want to add an extra antibacterial element, add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Coconut oil is known for its ability to kill harmful bacteria and promote overall oral health through oil pulling. This step is optional but highly beneficial.
4. Add Aloe Vera and Essential Oil
Mix in 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel to help soothe irritated gums and fight harmful bacteria.
Add 1-2 drops of mint essential oil for a refreshing flavor and an extra boost of cleanliness. Mint is naturally antimicrobial and provides a fresh sensation after rinsing.
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5. Optional Sea Salt Boost
If you’d like to add minerals to your rinse, mix in 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. Sea salt contains trace minerals that can help strengthen tooth enamel and maintain a healthy mouth environment.
6. Shake Well
Close the jar or bottle tightly and shake well to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the coconut oil, if included, is fully mixed in with the other components.
How to Use Your Homemade Mouthwash
Once your mouthwash is ready, follow these steps for effective use:
Swish: Take 1-2 tablespoons of the rinse and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Spit: Spit the mouthwash out into the sink. Avoid swallowing it since it contains ingredients meant to detoxify and remove bacteria.
Frequency: Use the mouthwash once or twice a day, preferably after brushing your teeth, for best results.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to help you get the best results from your homemade natural mouthwash:
Storage: Store the mouthwash in a cool, dry place. Since it contains natural ingredients without preservatives, it’s best to use it within 1 week. If you include coconut oil, it might solidify in colder temperatures, so give the bottle a good shake before each use.
Adjust the Flavor: If you prefer a stronger or milder flavor, adjust the amount of mint essential oil. You can also experiment with other essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, or clove, which have their own oral health benefits.
Use Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling: Coconut oil can also be used as a standalone oil-pulling agent for additional oral care. Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 5-10 minutes to kill bacteria and promote healthy gums.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this mouthwash safe for daily use?
Yes, this mouthwash is made from natural ingredients and is safe for daily use. The absence of alcohol and synthetic chemicals makes it gentler on your gums and teeth.
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