18 Natural Remedies for Bad Breath (Halitosis) - Quick Fixes

Updated: June 2025

Bad breath?
Try these 18 proven natural remedies to fight halitosis fast - starting with items in your kitchen right now.

Quick fixes you’ll discover:

• Instant fresheners: Parsley, cloves, and apple cider vinegar (neutralize odors on the spot).
• Bacteria killers: Green tea, probiotics, and baking soda rinses (stop bad breath at the source).
• Hydration hacks: Pineapple juice and fennel seeds (boost saliva to wash away bacteria).
• When to worry: Persistent bad breath could signal gum disease, GERD, or diabetes.

What causes bad breath? (Common triggers & fixes)

Bad breath is a common condition resulting from multiple factors, whether they are oral or systemic in origin.
Understanding its causes is the first step toward adopting effective and natural solutions.

Oral bacteria & bad breath: How your mouth’s ecosystem affects odor

The oral cavity hosts a varied bacterial flora.
While some bacteria are beneficial, others produce foul-smelling compounds by breaking down food residues.

• Volatile sulfur compounds: Substances like hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan, are the main culprits behind the unpleasant smell.
• Inadequate oral hygiene or consumption of odoriferous foods (garlic, onion) can exacerbate this condition.

Dry mouth & halitosis: Why saliva matters for fresh breath

Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral balance by eliminating bacteria and food residues.
When its flow decreases, an environment conducive to bacterial growth develops.

Some triggers:

• Medications: antihistamines, antidepressants, etc.
• Medical conditions: Sjögren's syndrome, diabetes.
• Habits: mouth breathing, smoking.

To address this, it is recommended to hydrate the mouth regularly and stimulate saliva production through natural methods.

Gum disease & tooth decay: Hidden causes of chronic bad breath

Dental diseases are often the cause of bad breath.

• Plaque and tartar: bacterial accumulation promoting odors.
• Gingivitis and periodontitis: gum inflammation creating pockets where bacteria proliferate.

Strict hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and specific treatments, can limit these effects.

Underlying health conditions linked to bad breath (GERD, Diabetes, More)

Some underlying diseases can worsen halitosis:

• Sinusitis and post-nasal drip: promote an unpleasant smell.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): causes acidic breath related to stomach contents.
• Diabetes, kidney, or liver failure: can alter metabolic processes, causing specific odors.

Holistic halitosis treatment: Addressing root causes naturally

Identifying the exact cause of your halitosis allows you to implement a tailored treatment.
Fighting dry mouth and managing underlying health issues are key steps for a natural treatment of bad breath.

Related: Natural Dry Mouth Treatment: Effective Relief

Best natural remedies for bad breath (Fast and effective)

While oral hygiene remains essential, incorporating natural remedies into your routine can enhance its effectiveness and address underlying causes.
Here is a selection of simple natural solutions to freshen your breath:

1. Parsley: Chlorophyll powerhouse to neutralize odors

Rich in chlorophyll, parsley acts as a natural deodorizer.

• Usage: Chew a few parsley leaves after meals or take parsley capsules (aff).
• Benefit: Neutralizes the compounds responsible for bad odors.

2. Pineapple juice: Bromelain enzyme fights bacteria

Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and reduces oral bacteria.

• Usage: Drink a glass of fresh pineapple juice or eat pineapple pieces.
• Benefit: Eliminates unpleasant odors and soothes the stomach.

3. Yogurt: Probiotic power to balance oral bacteria & gut health

Rich in probiotics, yogurt restores the balance of intestinal flora and supports proper digestion.

• Usage: Consume plain yogurt regularly.
• Benefit: Reduces bad odors linked to digestive issues.

4. Milk: Neutralizes garlic/onion breath & boosts saliva production

Milk stimulates saliva production, a natural agent that eliminates bacteria and food debris.

• Usage: Prefer skim or semi-skim milk after a meal.
• Benefit: Neutralizes acids and freshens the mouth.

5. Fennel seeds: Ancient remedy to stimulate saliva & freshen breath

These seeds have antimicrobial and digestive properties.

• Usage: Chew them after meals.
• Benefit: Stimulates saliva and freshens breath.

6. Oranges: Vitamin C fights bacteria & prevents morning breath

Rich in vitamin C, oranges promote saliva production and reduce bacteria.

• Usage: Eat oranges or drink fresh juice.
• Benefit: Creates a healthy oral environment and freshens breath.

7. Green Tea: Catechins kill sulfur-producing bacteria naturally

Known for its antioxidant and antibacterial properties, green tea promotes oral health.

• Usage: Drink a cup of green tea regularly.
• Benefit: Reduces bacteria and fights gum inflammation.

8. Apples: Crunchy fiber scrub cleans teeth and removes plaque

This crunchy fruit helps remove plaque and stimulates saliva.

• Usage: Eat apples as a snack or after a meal.
• Benefit: Naturally cleans teeth and freshens breath.

9. Cloves: Potent antibacterial spice for emergency breath rescue

Cloves have natural antibacterial properties and a strong aroma.

• Usage: Chew a clove after a meal.
• Benefit: Freshens the mouth and eliminates bacteria.

10. Apple Cider Vinegar: pH-balancing mouth rinse for odor control

Antimicrobial, it helps neutralize odors and balance the pH of the mouth.

• Usage: Gargle with a diluted solution (1 tablespoon in a glass of water) or add it to meals.
• Benefit: Fights bacteria responsible for halitosis.

Supplements and probiotics for long-term fresh breath

Dietary supplements and oral probiotics offer effective solutions to treat bad breath by targeting underlying causes.
Here are some options to explore:

• Zinc supplements: Reduce sulfur compounds causing mouth odor

Zinc plays a key role in immune function and limits the proliferation of odor-causing bacteria.

- Natural sources: Beef, seafood, legumes.

Benefits: Improves oral health and helps neutralize oral odors.

• Oral probiotics: Good bacteria to combat halitosis

These specific oral probiotics balance the flora and reduce harmful bacteria.

- Available forms: Mouthwashes or chewing gums (aff).

Benefits: Maintain fresh breath and support good oral health.

• Manuka Honey spray: Antibacterial defense against bad breath

Known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, Manuka honey spray effectively disinfects the mouth (aff).

- Usage: Spray directly into the oral cavity.

Benefits: Fights bacteria and offers lasting freshness.

Essential oils for bad breath: Natural antimicrobial solutions

Essential oils, thanks to their natural antibacterial properties, provide a promising solution for bad breath.
Here’s how to incorporate them into your routine:

Peppermint oil: Instant freshness + bacteria killer

Ideal for its freshness and antimicrobial effects.

Usage: Add 1-2 drops to a glass of water for a refreshing mouthwash.

Benefits: Neutralizes odors and reduces oral bacteria.

Tea Tree oil: Potent germ fighter for stubborn mouth odors

Known for its powerful antimicrobial properties.

Usage: Dilute a few drops in water to create a natural mouthwash.

Benefits: Eliminates bacteria responsible for odors.

Lemon oil: Citrus power to cleanse and deodorize

Its bright scent and cleansing properties make it an excellent choice.

Usage: Add a drop to a glass of water and use daily.

Benefits: Purifies the mouth and combats odor-causing bacteria.

Breath-freshening foods: What to eat

Some foods have natural properties that can freshen your breath:

• Herbs: Parsley, mint, and basil contain essential oils that neutralize odors.
• Vitamin C-rich fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons help stimulate salivation and eliminate bacteria.
• Green tea: Rich in antioxidants, it combats bacteria.
• Apples: Their crunchy texture helps naturally clean teeth.

Daily oral hygiene routine to prevent bad breath

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for oral health.
By following consistent practices, you can effectively reduce the causes of halitosis.
Here are key recommendations:

• How to brush properly to stop morning breath

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

Brush for at least 2 minutes, morning and night.

Recommended tool: Prefer a sonic electric toothbrush, which is more effective than manual brushing in reducing plaque (aff).

Benefits: Eliminates food particles, plaque, and bacteria responsible for bad breath.

• Use dental floss daily – Remove hidden odor-causing debris

Why? It cleans between teeth and along the gum line, areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush.

Benefits: Prevents plaque buildup and bacteria contributing to halitosis.

• Clean your tongue – Eliminate bacteria that cause morning breath

Use a tongue scraper or toothbrush to gently clean the surface of your tongue (aff).

Benefits: Removes bacteria and food particles responsible for bad odors, thus improving breath freshness.

• Saltwater gargle – Natural disinfectant for fresher breath

Reduces bacteria in the mouth and soothes any oral irritations.

Frequency: Once a day for optimal effect.

• Prepare a baking soda mouthwash – Neutralize acidic odors fast

Properties: Antibacterial and neutralizing for oral acids.

Preparation: Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water.

Benefits: Reduces bacteria and naturally freshens breath.

• Use an Apple Cider Vinegar mouthwash – Balance oral pH naturally

Properties: Acetic acid neutralizes bacteria and balances oral pH.

Preparation: Dilute a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water.

Benefits: Freshens breath and promotes a healthy oral environment.

• Schedule regular dental check-ups – Stop bad breath at the source

Twice a year, visit your dentist for a check-up and professional cleaning.
This exam will allow you to detect and treat problems such as cavities or gum diseases, which are major causes of chronic halitosis.

Related: Tooth Infection - 30 Natural Remedies (Fast Relief)

Lifestyle habits that make bad breath worse (Fix these!)

Lifestyle choices play a key role in maintaining fresh breath, in addition to good oral hygiene practices and natural remedies.
Here are the main factors to consider:

• Smoking: Tobacco is a major cause of bad breath as it leaves residues and harmful chemicals in the mouth and lungs.
  Quitting smoking improves overall health and helps combat bad breath.
• Diet: What we eat directly impacts the smell of our breath.
  Odor-causing foods, like garlic and onions, can leave a lingering smell.
  Reducing their consumption and focusing on foods beneficial for breath, like fresh fruits and vegetables, helps improve mouth freshness.
• Hydration: Drinking enough water throughout the day is essential.
  Good hydration promotes saliva production, which helps eliminate food particles and bacteria.
  A dry mouth, often caused by dehydration, can worsen halitosis, so make sure to drink regularly.
• Stress management: Stress can promote dry mouth and harm oral health.
  Relaxing activities like yoga or meditation help reduce stress and prevent dry mouth, thereby improving breath freshness.

When halitosis signals serious health issues

Bad breath is often linked to poor oral hygiene or strong-smelling foods.
However, when bad breath persists, it may signal more serious health problems.

Chronic bad breath? These medical conditions could be the cause

Chronic halitosis can be an early sign of gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory infections, or diseases of the liver and kidneys.
These conditions disrupt metabolic processes, generating foul-smelling compounds responsible for bad breath.

Knowing the potential medical causes of halitosis is crucial.
Consulting a healthcare professional helps identify these underlying issues and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Tips to eliminate bad breath naturally

Halitosis can cause discomfort and embarrassment, but natural treatments can help resolve this issue.
By identifying the causes and combining good oral hygiene, professional care, and natural remedies, you can restore fresh breath and maintain healthy oral hygiene.

For lasting results, adopt good oral hygiene habits and consult a professional if necessary.
These steps are essential for maintaining pleasant breath on a daily basis.

Related: How to Remove Tonsil Stones Fast – 13 Natural Remedies

Bad breath FAQs: Expert answers to top questions

Why does my breath smell bad every day?

Bad breath can be caused by various factors such as poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, dental issues, or underlying health conditions. Persistent bad breath may indicate the presence of bacteria in the mouth or digestive system, requiring further evaluation by a healthcare professional.

What drink can help eliminate bad breath?

Water is an excellent drink choice for combating bad breath as it helps rinse away food particles and bacteria in the mouth. Additionally, green tea contains antioxidants and antibacterial properties that can help freshen breath and promote oral health.

Can lemon water improve bad breath?

Lemon water may temporarily mask bad breath due to its acidic nature and pleasant scent. However, it's important to note that lemon water alone may not address the underlying causes of bad breath. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices and addressing any dental or systemic issues are essential for long-term freshness.

Does ginger remove bad breath?

Ginger has natural antibacterial properties that can help combat bad breath by killing odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. Chewing on a piece of fresh ginger or drinking ginger tea may provide temporary relief from bad breath, but it's not a substitute for proper oral hygiene.

How long does it take for bad breath to go away?

The duration for bad breath to improve varies depending on the underlying cause. Temporary bad breath, such as that caused by consuming pungent foods, may dissipate within a few hours after digestion. Chronic bad breath may require consistent oral hygiene practices, dietary adjustments, and potentially medical intervention to resolve.

How can I tell if my bad breath comes from my stomach?

Determining the source of bad breath can be challenging, but certain signs may indicate that it originates from the stomach. These include persistent bad breath even after thorough oral hygiene, accompanied by symptoms such as acid reflux, indigestion, or stomach discomfort. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help diagnose and address any underlying gastrointestinal issues contributing to bad breath.