When historian John Lawson wrote in 1714 that the Native Americans he met around North Carolina were “among the sweetest people in the world,” he wasn’t just talking about their dispositions. Along with many other observers of the time, Lawson noticed that, compared to Europeans, the Native Americans were downright fragrant. Not only did they take frequent baths, but their healthful diets, combined with good dental hygiene, kept their breath fresh as well.
Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria that accumulate on the teeth, tongue, and gums. The Native Americans frequently used herbs that helped control bacteria and also had sweet, fresh-smelling flavors. According to herbal authority James A. Duke, Ph.D., some of these remedies worked better than the store-bought products we use today.
Chew on fennel or cardamom. The seeds of both herbs are pleasantly fragrant and naturally freshen the breath. In addition, they contain a bacteria-killing compound called cineole, which helps prevent smelly bacteria from accumulating. Chew the seeds thoroughly and either swallow them or spit out the shells once the flavor has been exhausted.
Eat some parsley. This fresh, grassy-tasting herb is a great source of chlorophyll, the same ingredient that’s used in many breath mints, says Dr. Duke.
Gargle with peppermint or sage. Both of these sweet-smelling herbs have antibacterial properties. The leaves are a little too strong to eat, but they’re great for making tea for gargling. You can gargle with the tea just as you would with a storebought mouthwash.
This Bad Breath Home Remedies article is taken from :
Healing Secrets of the Native Americans - Porter Shimer
