DRY MOUTH SOLUTIONS
Say goodbye to dry mouth with these simple tried-and-true remedies.
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Xerostomia (commonly known as “dry mouth”) is a common condition that has a variety of causes, among them certain medications, smoking, snoring, dehydration, aging, and even stress or anxiety. This sticky “cotton mouth” feeling can include a loss of taste, cracked lips, and difficulty chewing, speaking, or swallowing, as well as an increase in the likelihood of developing cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath.
The good news is that simple lifestyle changes and a few natural remedies are usually all you need to get rid of this problem for good. First and foremost, make sure to drink plenty of fluids, and avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol that can contribute to dehydration. Also try:
Slippery Elm: Slippery elm is an herb that contains mucilage, so it becomes a slick gel when mixed with water. It coats and soothes the mouth and throat to relieve discomforts associated with dry mouth. Look for it in lozenges.
Clove: Clove oil is often used to treat “dry socket” after a tooth is extracted, as it not only combats dryness but also contains a natural pain-relieving chemical. Clove sweetens breath as well. Look for it in mouth rinses or sprays for dry mouth.
Peppermint: Peppermint oil may be found in dry-mouth sprays or mints as it soothes tissues and stimulates saliva production. This age-old cure not only alleviates dry mouth, but also helps to freshen bad breath.
Cayenne Pepper: This hot spice encourages saliva production and wakes up your taste buds so you can better taste flavors in food. Use it in cooking, or take cayenne pepper capsules.
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera gel helps protect the sensitive tissues in the mouth and enhances the sense of taste. Drink ¼ cup of aloe vera juice daily, and also rinse your mouth with aloe vera juice a few times a day. You can also apply pure aloe vera gel to mouth tissues with a cotton swab, leave for a few minutes, and rinse.
Fennel: The flavonoids in fennel seeds stimulate saliva production. Munch on fennel during the day. Fennel is also available in capsules, tinctures, and teas.
Good Buys:
HYALOGIC HAHylamints for Dry Mouth
NATURE’S ANSWERCayenne capsules
THAYERSSlippery Elm Lozenges
XLEAR Spry Moisturizing Mouth Spray