Get natural to combat common oral health issues

Herbal remedies offer extensive health benefits for our mouths and bodies, and can be a great way to make sure we aren't suffering from unattractive issues like bad breath or buildup of bacteria. Using spices and herbs to promote good oral health because of their high antioxidant content is a vital part of good oral health for anyone.

Basil
If you're like me, you don't need an excuse to toss some fresh basil into virtually any meal, but here's a reason: it has antibacterial disinfectant properties that destroy bacteria and germs in your mouth that cause bad breath! Hooray! Holy Basil is the specific type that should be incorporated into your daily diet, in conjunction with consistent oral hygiene.

Ginger
This pungent root has been front and center in Asian and Indian medicine for centuries. Americans are just now getting excited over the mighty power these roots have, which range from pain reduction to congestion relief. You may be wondering what this has to do with your oral health, but the relief of congestion can help eliminate post nasal drip, and this stomach aid can help battle bad breath caused by acid reflux. Similarly, ginger is known to improve your mood, while comparatively, stress is known to cause bad breath.

Cloves
Clove oil is often used to numb pain in the gums or mouth, and can be incredibly effective against mouth ulcers and overall dental health. But this little miracle spice can also help prevent plaque buildup. If you have a toothache, put a couple of cloves in your mouth and let them soften and then bite down to release the powerful oils. Guide the clove to the points in your mouth that are painful and let this spice do its job.

Bloodroot
Derived from the red-orange sap found in its roots, this herb effectively kills bacteria with an antibacterial property called sanguinarine. It helps fight plaque buildup and prevents gum disease, which is why it is commonly found in toothpaste and mouthwash.

Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a great spice that not only tastes delicious with nearly everything, but it also serves as beneficial to your overall health. To get rid of bad breath, it is often recommended to increase your intake of fiber (which cinnamon has), and add antioxidants kuje polyphenols - another property of cinnamon - into your diet. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to your coffee grounds, cereal, oatmeal or tea to take advantage of all the healing powers of this spice.

Nutmeg
Chock full of antioxidants, nutmeg is a natural cure for bad breath. Because of the natural antibacterial properties, germs that gather in your mouth are zapped, leaving you with a fresh and clean feeling. You may want to take a look at the ingredients in your toothpaste, nutmeg is commonly an ingredient.

Cayenne
Cayenne has an oily compound called capsaicin, which is an active ingredient in many over-the-counter prescription creams, ointments and patches for muscle aches. But this fiery spice also helps shrink blood vessels in your nose, which is why you may get a runny nose when you eat it. People who experience post nasal drip can find relief from spices like this. And since post nasal drip can cause bad breath, this spice is a double whammy.

Peppermint
You guessed it, peppermint is a great way to freshen bad breath. Not only do mint leaves have antibacterial properties - parsley also has these - to get rid of bad breath, but these little leaves can help prevent gum disease and maintain overall oral health.

Including these herbs and spices into your diet, in addition to using natural toothpaste and mouthwash can greatly increase the health of your mouth and body. You'll notice a drastic difference in the freshness of your breath and other issues you may deal with regularly.