According to Dr. B, “The oral microbiome seeds the gut microbiome. We swallow about a liter to a liter and a half of saliva daily, containing trillions of bugs. This means every time we swallow, we shower the GI tract - particularly the small and large intestines - with microbes from our mouths.” That being said, you’ll want this mouthwash at the ready. You heard the man, what starts in the mouth ends in the gut.⁠ ⁠ Thanks to @nnnayj for showing us how to make this holy grail mouthwash to keep your oral microbiome clean and prevent bacteria build-up while hitting home with mouth healing properties. Gurgle and rinse, babes!⁠ ⁠ Here is how to make it:⁠ ⁠ Equal parts:⁠ - Gotu Kola⁠ - Calendula⁠ - Plantain Leaf⁠ - Yarrow⁠ - Spearmint⁠ - Rosemary⁠ - Sage⁠ ⁠ Directions:⁠ - Add equal parts to a tea pot⁠ - Add boiling water and let steep for 10-15 minutes⁠ - Let fully cool down⁠ - Use as needed, swishing around the mouth as you would with any mouthwash⁠ - Store in the fridge for use up to 5 days ⁠ ⁠ Benefits:⁠ 🌿 Gotu kola, calendula, plantain leaf, and yarrow are anti-inflammatory and promote healing of the skin/sensitive tissue in the mouth that may be irritated or inflamed. These herbs also help heal wounds in the mouth or bleeding gums; they keep the oral microbiome clean, healthy, and strong.⁠ 🌿 Rosemary and sage are anti-bacterial, and anti-microbial and help fight infections.⁠ 🌿 Spearmint is anti-bacterial and also supports digestion, which starts in the mouth and also leaves you a refreshing taste in your mouth.