Toothpaste, Mouthwash, Breath Fresheners

• 1/4 tsp peppermint oil
• 1/4 tsp spearmint
• 1/4 cup arrowroot
• 1/4 cup powdered orrisroot
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp ground sage

Substitute 1/2 tsp each of oil of cinnamon and oil of cloves for peppermint/spearmint if desired.

Ben Franklin's Toothpaste

• Honey
• Ground charcoal

Mix into a paste and rub on teeth for whiteness.

Simple toothpaste mixtures

• Bicarbonate of soda
• Salt
• Water
• Glycerine
• Peppermint oil

Mix 3 parts bicarbonate of soda with one part salt. Add 3 tsp of glycerine for every 1/4 cup of this mixture, then add enough water to make a thick paste. Add a few drops of peppermint oil for better taste.

Fruit teeth cleaners!

Rub a lemon rind on your teeth to remove brown stains. Rinse your mouth thoroughly afterward.

Clean your teeth with a fresh strawberry. Rub it over and between your teeth.

• 2 cups water
• 3 tsp fresh parsley
• 2 tsp whole cloves
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp peppermint extract

Boil water and remove from heat. Add dry ingredients and allow to steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain and store in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator.

You can substitute other flavorings for peppermint if the minty flavor is not to your taste.

1. Gargle and rinse with undiluted rose water.
2. Chew a sprig of parsley or watercress.
3. Gently rub your gums and teeth with pine needles.