Pulikottil SJ, et al. (2015). Potential of cloveof Syzygium aromaticum in development of a therapeutic agent for periodontaldisease: A review. There is high-quality evidence of a large reduction in dental plaque with chlorhexidine mouth rinse used as an adjunct to mechanical oral hygiene procedures. Tea tree oil has also been proven to be a great adjunct in the treatment of periodontal disease. The goal of non-surgical periodontal treatment is to halt the disease and resolve inflammation, but many studies have shown that mechanical debridement alone cannot eliminate causative bacteria. Though more specific research is needed, several studies point to the potential of cloves to prevent plaque and reduce inflammation. That’s because cloves have antiviral and antioxidant properties. They may also help to relieve pain.

As much as I love making apple cider vinegar and kombucha, acidic ingredients should have no place in homemade mouthwash recipes. Acids released by the bacteria in dental plaque are what erode away the enamel, eventually leading to tooth decay. You don’t want to purposefully bathe your teeth in an acidic liquid. Elgendy, E. A., Ali, S. A., & Zineldeen, D. H. (2013). Effect of local application of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil gel on long pentraxin level used as an adjunctive treatment of chronic periodontitis: A randomized controlled clinical study. Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology, 17(4), 444-8.

With its pleasant aroma and powerful effects, Tranquility Essential Oil Blend is a great choice for those who want to experience a sense of inner peace. In addition, the blend can be used to help promote restful sleep, reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, and improve cognitive performance.

Mouth rinses containing melaleuca have been shown to treat even azole-resistant oral candida infections effectively. In a study of refractory oral candida in patients living with AIDS, a 15mL melaleuca oral solution was swished for 30-60 seconds, four times daily, for two weeks. Participants were not permitted to eat or drink for thirty minutes following the rinse. Some experienced mild to moderate burning that seemed to decrease over time as the candida infection improved. At a six-month follow-up, 67% of participants oral candida infections had significantly improved, or been cured, without recurrence. 2,4The antimicrobial activity of Melaleuca oil was compared with carbolic acid, or phenol, the gold standard of that time with a Rideal-Walker Coefficient test known as (RW), and the result was that the activity of the TTO was 11 times more active ( 18). Accordingly the TTO was promoted as a therapeutic agent. There is a study that helps support the idea of using a mouthwash with essential oils to help reduce plaque and gingivitis. The patients with gingivitis who used a mouthwash containing essential oils along with brushing and flossing had less gingivitis and plaque than those who didn’t use mouthwash or used one without essential oils. When blended together, this mixture creates an aroma that is both calming and uplifting. It can help to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and tension. It can also promote feelings of wellbeing and relaxation. In a controlled study, people with nail fungus used straight tea tree oil or an antifungal medication for 6 months. At the end of the study, about 60% of people in each group experienced partial or full resolution of the fungus ( 19).