Homemade Herbal Mouthwash

Let’s be honest: most conventional mouthwashes feel like a slap in the face. The burning, the neon blue color, and the strong artificial flavoring? No thanks.

I wanted something that felt fresh but not aggressive, and something I could actually feel good about swishing around in my mouth.

That’s when I turned to my herbal resources and found herbs that can actually support my teeth, gum, and overall mouth health.

This homemade herbal mouthwash is a simple, time-tested blend of spices and herbs that gently freshen breath and support oral health without harsh ingredients. Bonus: it smells amazing!

Why These Herbs Work for Oral Health

Each ingredient in this blend has been used for centuries for its natural cleansing and antimicrobial properties:

• Cinnamon sticks are naturally antibacterial and warming. Great for breath and circulation in the gums.
  
• Cloves are a powerful antimicrobial herb often used for oral pain. They bring a slightly numbing, spicy effect.
  
• Oregano is rich in antioxidants and well known for its antimicrobial benefits which is why I use it in my DIY antibacterial salve recipe.
  
• Nutmeg helps reduce inflammation and adds a sweet, warm note.

This isn’t just about fresh breath; it’s about giving your mouth real plant-based support. I absolutely LOVE it!

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DIY Herbal Mouthwash Recipe

Makes about 2 cups

Ingredients

• 2–3 whole cinnamon sticks
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 cups filtered water

Instructions

Bring 2 cups of filtered water to a boil. Add cinnamon, cloves, oregano, and nutmeg to a large jar or heat-safe container.

Pour the hot water over the herbs and spices. Let steep for 20 minutes, or until the mixture has cooled to room temperature.

Strain out the herbs and pour the finished liquid into a clean glass bottle.

To Use:

Swish a small amount in your mouth for 30-60 seconds, then spit it out. Use once or twice daily, ideally after brushing.

Notes

• Keep your mouthwash in the fridge and use within 1 week.
• You can adjust the strength of the flavor by steeping longer or using more/less of each herb.
• Want a sweeter taste? Try adding a drop of stevia extract after straining (optional).
• Always shake before using, natural ingredients may settle at the bottom.

How I Use It

This homemade mouthwash recipe is a favorite during cold season or when my mouth feels off after eating something really strong (looking at you, garlic pasta).

I also love giving my gums some extra care with natural herbs instead of relying on store-bought mouthwashes that dry out my mouth.

Even my husband, who was very skeptical of homemade mouthwash at first, came around after trying this one! Now he’s asking if we’re out before I’ve even notice 🙂

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Herbal Mouthwash

Yield: 2 Cups

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Active Time: 5 minutes

Additional Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty: Moderate

A warming, herbal mouthwash made with cinnamon, cloves, oregano, and nutmeg. This alcohol-free DIY mouthwash helps freshen breath naturally using traditional spices known for their cleansing and soothing properties.

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Materials

• 2-3 whole cinnamon sticks
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 cups filtered water

Tools

• Kettle or saucepan (to boil water)
• Heat-safe glass jar or bowl
• Spoon
• Fine mesh strainer
• Glass bottle or jar with lid (for storage)

Instructions

1. In a jar add the cinnamon, oregano, nutmeg, and cloves and steep in boiling water for 20 minutes or until it cools down. 
2. Strain and enjoy. 

Notes

• Keep your mouthwash in the fridge and use within 1 week.
• You can adjust the strength of the flavor by steeping longer or using more/less of each herb.
• Want a sweeter taste? Try adding a drop of stevia extract after straining (optional).
• Always shake before using, natural ingredients may settle at the bottom.

Did you make this project?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

Final Thoughts

This DIY herbal mouthwash is one of those swaps that feels small but meaningful. It’s a way to care for your body, connect with plant medicine, and cut back on chemicals, all in a 30-second swish 🙂