What is halitosis?
Halitosis refers to bad breath which is not only a sign of ill health but it is also a social stigma. It is common in many people at all times and in all people some of the time. Unfortunately, most people who offend in this respect are completely unaware of their problem and the discomfort they cause to others. Halitosis can be acute or chronic depending on the causes.
What are the causes of halitosis?
Halitosis (bad breath) is, in the main, caused by sulphur producing bacteria that normally live within the surface of the tongue and in the throat. The most common cause of halitosis is bad teeth and gum conditions. Dental decay at the roots of the teeth may result in abscesses in the gums with foul smelling pus giving an objectionable odour to the breath. Even small holes in the teeth may provide a place where germs can multiply and release foul odours.
Most cases of bad breath, however, are caused by gastrointestinal disorders, intestinal sluggishness and particularly by chronic constipation. The unpleasant odour results from an exceptionally large amount of waste matter expelled through the lungs. Here are some common causes of halitosis :
- Chewing tobacco.
- Smoking.
- Dry mouth – caused by medicines and alcohol.
- Periodontal disease.
- Diseases like anemia may also lead to unpleasant breath.
What are the symptoms of halitosis?
The common symptoms of halitosis can include:
- A white or Yellow coating on the Tongue.
- Dryness in mouth.
- Thick saliva and a constant need to clear your throat.
- Post Nasal Drainage.
- Smelling bad breath on breathing through the nose.
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Home remedies To Cure Halitosis
If halitosis is caused by tooth and gum conditions, smoking or anemia, these conditions must be treated. Once they are eliminated the bad breath will disappear. Similarly, bad breath resulting from gastrointestinal disorders can be successfully treated by correcting these disorders and cleansing the system of morbid matter.
1. Fenugreek
Among the several home remedies for halitosis, the use of fenugreek has proved most effective. A tea made from the seeds of this vegetable should be taken regularly for correcting the condition. This tea is prepared by putting one teaspoon of seeds in half a litre of cold water and allowing it to simmer for fifteen minutes over a low flame. It should then be strained and used as tea.
2. Avocado
An effective remedy for bad breath is avocado which is far superior to any mouth lotion or remedies for this condition. It effectively removes intestinal putrefaction or decomposition which is one of the most important causes of bad breath.
3. Guava
Unripe guava is useful in halitosis. It is rich in tannic, malic, oxalic, and phosphoric acids as well as calcium, oxalate, and manganese. Chewing it is an excellent tonic for the teeth and gums. It helps cure bleeding from gums and stops bad breath. Chewing tender leaves of guava tree also stops bleeding from gums and bad breath.
4. Parsley
Parsley is a valuable cure for bad breath. Two cups of water should be boiled and several sprigs of parsley, coarsely chopped, should be steeped in this water along with two or three whole cloves or a quarter teaspoon of ground cloves. This mixture should be stirred occasionally while cooling. It should then be strained and used as a mouthwash or gargle several times a day.
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