KissMeGoodnight
eRomance Series:
My Breath Stinks:
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath...NOW!
5
Herbs Can Stop Halitosis (Bad Breath)
For those who love to cook, herbs are a necessity.
Whether you are using fresh herbs, dried herbs or crushed herbs
there is a wide variety of cooking herbs. It would not surprise
you to know that most likely some of the herbs you
use everyday can also be used to alleviate bad breath (halitosis). Here
is a list of a few for you to consider if you are interested
in a non-conventional treatment.
Eucalyptus: Australian aborigines, who chewed the roots for
water in the dry outback, first used Eucalyptus. Inhalation
of the vapor of eucalyptus oil aids in treating mucus-producing
illnesses such as, asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough, and
emphysema. The major constituent in eucalyptus leaves is a
volatile oil known as eucalyptol Eucalyptus oil is said to
function in a fashion similar to that of menthol by acting
on receptors in the nasal mucus, leading to a reduction in
symptoms such as nasal congestion.
The side effects from the internal use of eucalyptus can include
nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Infants and children under
the age of two, especially near the face and nose, due to the
risk of airway spasm and possible cessation of breathing, should
not use eucalyptus oil. The oil may aggravate bronchial spasms
in people with asthma and should not be taken internally by
those with severe liver diseases and inflammatory disorders
of the gastrointestinal tract and kidney.
Thyme: This fragrant plant is indigenous to the Mediterranean
region of Europe and is extensively cultivated in the Untied
States. The dried or partially dried leaves and flowering tops
are used medicinally. Many constituents in thyme team up to
provide its antitussive (preventing and treating a cough),
antispasmodic, and expectorant (thinning the mucus to allow
for coughing out) actions. Thyme, either alone or in combination
with herbs such as sundew, continues to be one of the most
commonly recommended herbs in Europe for the treatment of dry,
spasmodic coughs as well as whooping cough. Due to the low
toxicity of the herb, it has become a favorite for treating
coughs in small children.
Thyme is generally safe if used as indicated. However, a spasmodic
cough, particularly in a young child, may be dangerous and
a healthcare professional should be consulted before deciding
on the proper course of treatment.
Myrrh: In ancient times, the red-brown resin of myrrh was
used to preserve mummies. It was also used as a remedy for
numerous infections, including leprosy and syphilis. Herbalists
for relief also recommended myrrh from bad breath and for dental
conditions. The three main constituents of myrrh are the resin,
the gum, and the volatile oil. All are thought to be important
in myrrh's activity as an herbal medicine. Myrrh also has astringent
properties and has a soothing effect on inflamed tissues in
the mouth and throat. Myrrh is generally safe if used as indicated.
Bloodroot: Native Americans employed bloodroot extensively
in ritual and medicine. The dye was used as body paint. Sore
throats, cough, rheumatic pains, and various types of cancer
were all treated with bloodroot. Alkaloids-principally sanguinarine-constitute
the primary active compounds in bloodroot. These are sometimes
used in toothpaste and other oral hygiene products because
they inhibit the growth of oral bacteria.
Side effects of Bloodroot can cause nausea and vomiting if
taken in large amounts.
Caraway: The use of caraway as a medicinal agent has remained
unchanged for centuries. Caraway seeds not only promote digestion
but also ease the symptoms of children suffering from digestive
colic. Caraway belongs to a class of herbs called carminatives,
which are plants helpful in easing gastrointestinal discomfort.
Caraway is generally safe for internal use. However, children
should not use the purified volatile oil under two years of
age, as oil from caraway and other herbs in the Umbelliferrae
family can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes.
Peppermint: Classified as a carminative herb, peppermint has
been used as a general digestive aid and employed in the treatment
of indigestion and intestinal colic.
Peppermint tea is generally considered safe for regular consumption.
Peppermint oil can cause burning and gastrointestinal upset
in some people.
Sage: Sage has one of the longest histories of use of any
culinary or medicinal herb. Herbalists externally to treat
sprains, swelling, ulcers, and bleeding used it. Internally,
a tea made from sage leaves has had a long history of use to
treat sore throats and coughs-often used as a gargle.
Very high amounts of Sage (several times greater than one
receives if taking sage as instructed), may lead to convulsions. #
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KissMeGoodnight
: 2006
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