Most commercial mouthwashes contain artificial colors, flavors, fragrances, strong chemicals, and alcohol. Making your own antiseptic mouthwash with common herbs is easier than you think. The herbs in this recipe have antimicrobial properties that help kill germs naturally, reduce inflammation, and the calendula supports healthy gum tissue. This simple homemade herbal mouthwash only uses five ingredients.
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I make a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting Seeking Joyful Simplicity ~ Michelle
Ingredients:
Fresh or dried herbs can be used for your homemade mouthwash.
- 1 part calendula flowers
- 1 part sage leaf
- 1 part thyme leaf
- 1 part peppermint
leaves (you can substitute a few drops of peppermint essential oil
)
- Enough water to cover the herbs
- tea tree essential oil
leaves (you can substitute a few drops of 
)
Directions:
- Measure dried herbs – for my 16-ounce jar, I used a small handful of each dried herb – calendula, sage, thyme, and peppermint.
- Add herbs to the pot.
- Add enough water to cover the herbs and stir.
- Cover the pot and bring to a brisk boil (covering retains the aromatic oils).
- Turn off the heat and allow the herbs to steep for 30-minutes.
- Once cooled, strain your herbs using cheesecloth
or a fine mesh strainer.
- Add a few drops of tea tree essential oil (and peppermint oil, if using)
- Store in a jar with a lid. Use within 7-10 days. (You can store for longer in the refrigerator.)
- Use two to four times daily between and after brushing.
or a fine mesh strainer.
Last summer I had gum surgery on two places and the periodontist prescribed a medicinal mouthwash. I chose instead to use the herbal antiseptic mouthwash, adding dried yarrow and plantain to speed tissue healing. I am happy to say, my gums healed quickly and without infection.
I highly recommend this simple homemade herbal antiseptic mouthwash, either as part of your daily routine, or when needed.
Brittany Thomas at the Pistachio Project has a great recipe for Homemade Peppermint Toothpaste, and a Kid-Friendly Strawberry Toothpaste recipe.
~ Michelle
Seeking Joyful Simplicity is about living your best life after 40. I write about using a holistic approach combining herbal remedies, nourishing foods, and self-care to reduce overwhelm, manage our weight, and enjoy more vibrant health in our 40's, 50's, and beyond.
What a healthy alternative to harsh, unhealthy mouthwash! Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful simple homemade five ingredient herbal mouthwash at the Healthy Happy Green and Natural Party Blog Hop. I’m pinning and sharing. Wishing you a healthy, happy year ahead!
This sounds interesting. I’ve never heard of using herbs to make a mouthwash. I much rather try this than the crazy, mouth-burning store bought stuff!
Yep, and no artificial colors either.
Thanks so much for this. I have thyme, sage, calendula and tea tree but bought spearmint instead of peppermint – will this work? I also bought marshmallow root. Do you think I can incorporate all of the above together?
Yes, the marshmallow root would work, but be aware it’s very mucilaginous!