Can sage help freshen a breath?

Sage can have antibacterial properties that can help to reduce the levels of bacteria that can cause bad breath, such as Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus. Its active compounds can help neutralize oral acids and reduce plaque buildup, contributing to a fresher breath.

Additionally, sage may temporarily mask bad breath by providing a pleasant aroma when chewed or used in mouth rinses. However, chewing sage leaves directly can be harsh on the teeth and may not be the most effective way to use it for breath freshening.

Instead, consider incorporating sage into your oral hygiene routine by adding it to your toothpaste or making a sage-infused mouth rinse. You can also use sage essential oil in a diffuser to enjoy its fragrance and potential breath-freshening effects.