Recipe: This black pepper and clove mouthwash is a homemade ‘virus fighter’

Oral health is often taken for granted but the practice of maintaining dental hygiene and keeping the mouth, teeth and gums clean and healthy to prevent disease is an essential part of our everyday lives. It is a lesser known fact that neglecting oral hygiene for a long period of time eventually starts affecting our overall health and may also lead to heart disease, cancer, diabetes, dementia, arthritis or pregnancy complications apart from the dental cavities and gum disease.

While proper brushing and flossing are critically important to maintain good dental hygiene, using a mouthwash can help decrease the risk of gingivitis and gum disease. Looking for a homemade, easy yet effective mouthwash that it’s 100% natural and has a long shelf life? Whip up your own ‘virus fighter’ black pepper and clove mouthwash and share the recipe with family and friends.

Ingredients:

Clove: 4-5 piece

Black pepper: 4-5 piece

Water: 2 cup

Method:

In a pan, boil one cup distilled water with 6-8 pieces of black pepper and cloves. Bring the pot down and let the mixture stew for 5- 6 minutes.

Viola! Your ‘virus fighter’ mouthwash is ready!

(Recipe: Cherise India Private Ltd)

Also known as a mouth rinse, oral rinse or tonic, a natural alcohol-free mouthwash is a good follow up to brushing the teeth and flossing as it is gentle for even the most sensitive mouths and reduces oral bacteria along with maintaining or achieving optimal oral health and hygiene. Homemade or natural mouthwashes do not cause dry mouth or xerostomia which is potentially detrimental to oral health as it decreases saliva production and is a side effect of using an alcohol-based mouthwash or certain medications, chemotherapy or lifestyle choices.

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