Can drinking water infused with Elsholtzia (fragrant ru) treat bad breath?

Elsholtzia (Elsholtzia splendens) is a traditional Chinese herb that has functions of inducing perspiration to relieve exterior syndromes, harmonizing the middle jiao to resolve dampness, and promoting diuresis to reduce edema. Halitosis may be caused by various factors such as damp-heat in the spleen and stomach or excessive stomach fire. Elsholtzia is a plant known for its effective oral refreshing properties, as it contains abundant volatile essential oils, with menthol being the primary component. These compounds provide antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-pruritic effects. These characteristics enable elsholtzia to effectively eliminate bacteria in the mouth and alleviate halitosis.

However, drinking elsholtzia-infused water alone is insufficient for treating halitosis. This should be considered only as an auxiliary method. A comprehensive approach tailored to the individual's specific circumstances is necessary. This includes improving oral hygiene habits, regularly checking for dental caries, periodontal disease, and other issues; adjusting dietary patterns to avoid spicy and irritating foods; and investigating the possibility of gastrointestinal diseases.

For severe halitosis, targeted treatment should be carried out by considering multiple aspects such as oral hygiene and dietary habits.