"Swishin’ for Wellness: What the Science Says About Mouthwash" By Momma J

Let’s be honest—mouthwash doesn’t usually get us excited.

It’s one of those things we grab at the store without much thought. But honey, the truth is: what you swish matters. Especially if you're trying to keep your family healthy, your gums happy, and your wellness rooted in something deeper than minty breath and TV commercials.

So today, I’m breaking down what mouthwash actually does, what the science says, and how to make your own powerful, fluoride-free version right at home—using the herbs God gave us.

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What Mouthwash Really Does (and Doesn’t)

It’s not a magic potion, sugar. But used wisely, mouthwash can be a wonderful supportive tool in your oral health routine. Let’s peek at the different types and see what’s worth your shelf space—and what you can leave at the store.

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The Dentist’s Pick: Chlorhexidine

This one’s the big dog. Dentists often recommend chlorhexidine for serious plaque or gum problems—and with good reason. It works. A 2017 review showed it seriously reduces plaque and inflammation after just a few weeks.¹

But here’s the catch: long-term use can lead to stained teeth, altered taste, and an unbalanced mouth microbiome. It’s strong, but not for everyday use—and definitely not for kids or folks trying to avoid synthetic chemicals.

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Essential Oils & CPC: Nature’s Little Soldiers

Many store-bought rinses now include essential oils—like thyme, menthol, clove, and eucalyptol. Studies show they reduce plaque and kill harmful bacteria, and CPC (cetylpyridinium chloride) even has antiviral effects.²

That makes these rinses a decent short-term option—but again, keep an eye on the ingredients list. Some still sneak in alcohol, dyes, or fluoride, and that’s not what we want on a daily basis.

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Let’s Talk Herbs: Aloe Vera & Thyme to the Rescue

Here’s the part that warms my homesteadin’ heart: herbs work, too—and science backs it up. One clinical trial compared aloe vera mouthwash to chlorhexidine and found no significant difference in effectiveness.³ That means something straight from God’s green earth can stand toe-to-toe with pharmacy-grade rinse—without the harsh side effects.

Other heavy hitters? Thyme, clove, cinnamon, and peppermint all have powerful antibacterial properties—and they taste real good too.

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Momma J’s Homemade Fluoride-Free Mouthwash

A recipe rooted in science and tradition

This is what I use in my own home. It’s simple, affordable, fluoride-free, and supports a healthy mouth microbiome without throwing everything out of balance. Great for adults, teens, and those avoiding chemicals due to autoimmune conditions (like me!).

Ingredients:

1 cup distilled water (boiled and cooled)

1 tsp baking soda (to neutralize acids)

1 tsp xylitol (optional, helps prevent cavities)

2 tsp dried peppermint leaves or 2 drops peppermint essential oil

1 tsp dried thyme (natural antimicrobial)

1/2 tsp clove powder or 1 drop clove oil

1 tbsp alcohol-free witch hazel (natural astringent)

1 tsp aloe vera juice (optional, soothing for gums)

5 drops trace minerals (optional, supports remineralization)

Instructions:

1. If using herbs, steep them in hot water for 10–15 minutes. Strain and cool.

2. Mix all ingredients in a glass jar or bottle.

3. Shake well before each use. Swish 1–2 tablespoons for 30 seconds, then spit.

4. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Pro Tip: Make a fresh batch every Sunday after church and use it all week long.

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Why Go Fluoride-Free?

Fluoride’s a hot topic. Some dentists love it. But more and more mamas (and researchers) are raising concerns about fluoride’s effects on thyroid health, gut bacteria, and long-term toxicity when overexposed. I’m not here to debate—I’m here to empower you.

If you feel more comfortable keeping fluoride out of your home, this recipe has your back.

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In the End, It’s About Wisdom

Our mouths are sacred. What we put in them—food, medicine, even mouthwash—should be treated with care. We’re stewards of these bodies, and I believe the Lord gave us the tools to care for them naturally.

So next time you swish, make it count. Skip the synthetic junk and give your gums a hug from the homestead instead.

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Sources (Turabian Style):

1. Walsh, James P., Helen Worthington, and Susan S. Lamont. “Chlorhexidine Mouthrinses and Plaque Control: A Systematic Review.” Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 3 (2017). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10690548/.

2. Al-Marzooq, Ahmed A., et al. “Comparative Evaluation of the Efficacy of Herbal and Non-Herbal Mouthrinses in Reducing Plaque and Gingivitis: A Clinical Study.” Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry 9, no. 6 (2019): 560–565. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6112363/.

3. Kaur, Harpreet, et al. “Aloe Vera as a Plaque Control Agent: A Randomized Clinical Trial.” Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry 14, no. 12 (2022): e1089–e1095. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11389133/.