Halitosis

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is an unpleasant odour from the mouth. It is a common condition that can cause social embarrassment and may indicate underlying health problems.

Causes of Bad Breath

1. Oral Hygiene Issues:

Poor brushing or flossing
Food particles trapped between teeth
Bacterial build-up on the tongue (white coating)

2. Dietary Factors:

Eating garlic, onions, or spicy foods
High-protein or sugary diets

3. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia):

Caused by dehydration, medications, or mouth breathing

4. Dental Problems:

Cavities, gum disease, or poorly fitting dental appliances

5. Infections:

Sinus infections, tonsillitis, or throat infections

6. Systemic Conditions:

Diabetes (ketone breath), kidney disease, or gastrointestinal disorders

7. Tobacco and Alcohol Use:

Smoking and alcohol contribute to dry mouth and bad odour.

8. Medications:

Certain medications that reduce saliva or release odor upon metabolism.

Associated Symptoms with halitosis:

Dryness in the mouth
Bitter or metallic taste
White or yellowish coating on the tongue
Inflamed or bleeding gums
Dental discomfort or pain
Sore throat or postnasal drip

Ayurvedic Perspective on Halitosis

Ayurveda identifies halitosis as "Mukha Dourgandhya" and attributes it to imbalances in doshas, primarily Pitta and Kapha. Poor digestion (Ama accumulation) and oral hygiene contribute to bad breath.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Halitosis

Dietary Modifications

Avoid Pitta-aggravating foods like spicy, sour, and oily items.
Reduce Kapha-aggravating foods like dairy and sugary items.
Include digestion-friendly foods like ginger, cumin, and fennel.

Oral Hygiene Practices

Oil Pulling (Gandusha): Swish coconut or sesame oil in the mouth to remove toxins.
Tongue Cleaning: Use a tongue scraper to remove coating.
Herbal Mouthwash: Rinse with water infused with Triphala, neem, or mint.