Herb Challenge: Week 4 Holy Basil Mouthwash

Welcome back to the Holy Basil Herb Challenge! This week we'll make a mouthwash that highlights Holy Basil's antibacterial properties.

Tulsi has shown great potential in the world of oral care. Clinical studies have found that mouthwashes made with Tulsi can effectively reduce plaque and gingivitis (7,11), offering results comparable to chlorhexidine—the standard antimicrobial rinse—without the harsh side effects.(11) This makes it a gentle, natural alternative for maintaining a healthy mouth. Tulsi mouthwash is quick and easy to make and it stores for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Mouthwash

Ingredients

• 1 handful (about 1/2 cup, packed) fresh tulsi leaves (or 2 tablespoons dried tulsi leaves)

• 1 cup water

• optional: 1 teaspoon vodka

  
  

Directions

• Place tulsi in a glass jar.

• Bring water to boil, then pour over tulsi. Cover and allow the tea to infuse for 20 minutes.

• Strain tulsi leaves from the liquid using a fine mesh strainer into a storage bottle or jar.

• Allow to cool to room temperature.

• If desired, add vodka to help preserve the mouthwash for up to 5 days if refrigerated.

• Rinse and gargle with mouthwash daily for 20-30 seconds.

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*Store covered in the refrigerator. Mouthwash will keep for 2-3 days without adding vodka.