If you’re interested in making a natural mouthwash, you can focus on ingredients that support oral health, are gentle on the oral microbiome, and offer antiseptic properties without harsh chemicals. Here’s a guide to ingredients to include and avoid:

Ingredients to Include

1. Filtered Water: Acts as the base and helps dissolve other ingredients.

2. Baking Soda: Neutralizes acids and maintains an alkaline pH, which helps deter bacteria. It’s mildly abrasive but gentle enough to protect enamel when used in a rinse.

3. Essential Oils:

   • Tea Tree Oil: Antimicrobial and antifungal, known for fighting bacteria and freshening breath.
   • Peppermint Oil: Has antibacterial properties and leaves a refreshing taste.
   • Clove Oil: Contains eugenol, which has antiseptic and numbing effects, making it great for soothing gums.
   • Myrrh Oil: Known for its astringent and antimicrobial properties, supporting gum health.
   • Cinnamon Oil: Antibacterial and can help prevent tooth decay. It also adds a warm flavor.
   • Oregano Oil: Powerful antimicrobial properties, good for targeting bacteria in the mouth.

   Note: Use only 1–3 drops of each essential oil per 1/2 cup of water to avoid irritation.

4. Aloe Vera Gel: Known for soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, aloe vera helps heal and calm gums.

5. Hydrogen Peroxide (3% diluted): Antibacterial and oxygenating, it can whiten teeth and kill bacteria. Use only 1–2 tablespoons in 1/2 cup of water, and limit usage to a few times a week to avoid enamel erosion.

6. Xylitol: A natural sweetener that reduces plaque buildup and can help maintain a healthy pH in the mouth.

7. Sea Salt or Himalayan Salt: Has antiseptic properties and can help soothe and reduce gum inflammation.

Ingredients to Avoid

1. Alcohol: Common in many commercial mouthwashes but can dry out the mouth, which may lead to irritation and disrupt the oral microbiome.

2. Triclosan: Known to have endocrine-disrupting effects and may contribute to antibiotic resistance. Not ideal for oral microbiome health.

3. Fluoride: While fluoride can help strengthen enamel, in mouthwash, it’s often paired with other chemicals that could disrupt the microbiome. Many people prefer to avoid it, especially in homemade formulas.

4. Cetylpyridinium Chloride: Often found in mouthwashes for its antimicrobial action, it can negatively impact the balance of beneficial bacteria in the mouth.

5. Artificial Colors and Sweeteners: These are unnecessary additives and may cause sensitivity or disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the mouth.

Simple DIY Mouthwash Recipe

Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup filtered water
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1–2 drops tea tree oil
• 2 drops peppermint oil
• 1/2 tsp xylitol (optional for sweetness)
• A pinch of sea salt or Himalayan salt

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a small glass bottle with a lid.
2. Shake well to mix.
3. Swish 1–2 tablespoons in your mouth for 30–60 seconds, then spit it out. Don’t swallow the rinse.
4. Store in a cool, dark place, and shake before each use.

This mouthwash can be used daily and adjusted to your taste preferences or oral health needs. The ingredients will help support a healthy oral microbiome, freshen your breath, and offer gentle antimicrobial action without harsh chemicals.