Can Bao He Wan treat halitosis?

Jun 28, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I’ve noticed that my child has had bad breath recently, along with a thick tongue coating. I heard that Bao He Wan may be effective—does Bao He Wan treat bad breath?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Bao He Wan (Preserved Harmony Pill) has a certain therapeutic effect on halitosis, but its efficacy varies among individuals. Specifically, Bao He Wan functions to promote digestion, stimulate appetite, and nourish the stomach; thus, it is particularly effective for halitosis caused by indigestion, food stagnation, or impaired spleen-stomach function. To effectively eliminate halitosis, treatment must be targeted to the underlying cause. In daily life, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential—this includes brushing teeth before bedtime, rinsing the mouth after meals, cleaning dentures thoroughly, avoiding smoking, and practicing other measures to ensure oral cleanliness. Middle-aged and elderly individuals may benefit from chewing olive oil or Chinese plums (Prunus mume), consuming more fruits, and drinking tea made from dwarf lilyturf root (Ophiopogon japonicus) and licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) to promote salivary secretion.