Best Natural Mouthwashes (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Natural mouthwashes offer effective oral care using plant-based and mineral ingredients without synthetic chemicals, artificial flavors, or harsh additives. Whether you’re concerned about toxic ingredients, prefer eco-friendly products, or simply want a gentler approach to oral hygiene, natural mouthwashes can deliver the freshness and protection you need. We’ve researched the top natural options to help you maintain a healthy mouth while staying aligned with your wellness values.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Best Overall: TheraBreath Fresh Breath — dentist-formulated with natural oxygenating compounds
- Best Value: Hello Naturally Healthy Antigingivitis — effective gum care at a budget price
- Best Premium: PerioSciences AO ProRinse — antioxidant-powered oral health
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Ingredients | Fluoride-Free | Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TheraBreath Fresh Breath | Sodium chlorite | Yes | 16 oz | Bad breath |
| Hello Naturally Healthy | Tea tree, coconut oil | Yes | 16 oz | Gum health |
| PerioSciences AO ProRinse | Antioxidants, essential oils | Yes | 10 oz | Sensitive mouths |
| CloSYS Sensitive | Chlorine dioxide | Yes | 32 oz | Ultra-gentle care |
| Tom’s of Maine Wicked Fresh | Zinc chloride, essential oils | No (fluoride option) | 16 oz | Long-lasting freshness |
| GuruNanda Oil Pulling | Coconut oil, essential oils | Yes | 8 oz | Traditional Ayurvedic care |
| Dental Herb Company Tooth & Gums Tonic | Herbal extracts, essential oils | Yes | 18 oz | Herbal healing |
| Auromere Ayurvedic | Neem, peelu, essential oils | Yes | 16 oz | Holistic wellness |
1. TheraBreath Fresh Breath — Best Overall
- FIGHTS BAD BREATH: TheraBreath Fresh Breath Mouthwash fights bad breath for 24 hours when used every 12 hours after brushing and flossing
- DENTIST FORMULATED: Dr. Katz created the TheraBreath formulas in 1993 to help his own daughter with her bad breath
- ADA ACCEPTED: Our alcohol-free, non-burning formula is powered by oxygen, and is ADA accepted to help reduce bad breath
- RESTORE CONFIDENCE: TheraBreath believes you should define success any way you please. We exist to motivate you to go get it.
- For best results, swish TheraBreath Rinse for 1 minute after brushing your teeth with toothpaste then spit out; do not eat or drink for 30 minutes afterwards
TheraBreath Fresh Breath uses dentist-formulated oxygenating compounds to eliminate bad breath at its source naturally.
This professional-strength mouthwash contains sodium chlorite, which releases oxygen to attack the anaerobic bacteria responsible for bad breath. Unlike conventional mouthwashes that mask odors with strong flavors, TheraBreath neutralizes sulfur-producing bacteria for lasting freshness. Free from alcohol, artificial colors, and harsh chemicals, it provides powerful results through naturally derived active ingredients.
What We Like
- Dentist-formulated with clinically proven natural ingredients
- Eliminates bad breath rather than masking it temporarily
- Free from alcohol, artificial flavors, and synthetic dyes
What Could Be Better
- Mild flavor may not provide the intense “clean” sensation some expect
- Higher price point than mass-market natural options
Bottom Line: For those seeking professional-strength bad breath relief with clean, natural ingredients, TheraBreath delivers proven results without harsh chemicals.
2. Hello Naturally Healthy Antigingivitis — Best Value
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Hello Naturally Healthy combines tea tree oil and coconut oil for effective gum care at an affordable price.
This vegan, cruelty-free mouthwash uses naturally derived ingredients to reduce gingivitis and promote healthier gums. Tea tree oil provides antibacterial properties while coconut oil soothes inflammation. Free from alcohol, artificial sweeteners, dyes, and SLS, it offers clean oral care without compromising effectiveness. The fresh mint flavor comes from natural peppermint oil rather than synthetic flavoring.
What We Like
- Affordable pricing for a natural, effective gum care rinse
- Tea tree and coconut oils provide natural antibacterial benefits
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and free from artificial additives
What Could Be Better
- May require longer use time than conventional rinses for full benefits
- Some find natural flavoring less refreshing than artificial mint
Bottom Line: For budget-conscious consumers seeking natural gum care, Hello delivers effective results with clean ingredients at an accessible price.
3. PerioSciences AO ProRinse — Best Premium
- For your oral health - PerioSciences AO ProRinse Sensitive Oral Rinse counteracts bad breath and soothes oral tissue with herbal compounds and essential oils. This antioxidant-based sensitivity mouthwash also freshens breath, supports your saliva’s natural defenses and helps with extreme oral sensations.
- Natural ingredients - PerioSciences mouthwash for sensitive teeth is made using our signature antioxidants and essential oils such as phloretin, ferulic acid, menthol peppermint oil, and plasdone. The Sensitive rinse contains witch hazel extract known to support gum health.
- Dentist recommended - Scientifically proven ingredients were chosen for properties that focus on the mouth's natural defense system—helping alleviate discomfort for sensitive mouth, and promote teeth and gum health.
- Easy to use - After brushing, swish approximately one teaspoon of AO ProRinse for up to a minute. Spit out all oral rinse. Do not swallow. For best results, wait 30 minutes before eating or drinking.
- Redefining Oral Care with Antioxidants - PerioSciences believes in harnessing the power of nature using antioxidants and science in a novel dual approach by using ingredients known to have properties that keep your oral health and your smile at its best.
PerioSciences AO ProRinse harnesses the power of antioxidants and essential oils for advanced natural oral care.
This dentist-recommended formula combines signature antioxidants like phloretin and ferulic acid with essential oils including peppermint and witch hazel extract. The antioxidants help protect against cellular damage while supporting your mouth’s natural defense system. Particularly effective for sensitive mouths, it provides comprehensive protection without alcohol, artificial flavors, or harsh chemicals that can irritate delicate tissues.
What We Like
- Scientifically formulated antioxidants support natural oral defenses
- Excellent for extremely sensitive mouths and post-procedure care
- Dentist-recommended with clinically proven ingredients
What Could Be Better
- Premium pricing reflects high-quality natural ingredients
- Smaller bottle size requires more frequent replacement
Bottom Line: For those with sensitive mouths seeking premium natural care, PerioSciences offers advanced antioxidant protection with proven results.
4. CloSYS Sensitive — Best Ultra-Gentle
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CloSYS Sensitive provides the gentlest natural cleaning available with patented chlorine dioxide technology.
This pH-balanced mouthwash kills 99.9% of harmful bacteria in 10 seconds without any burning, stinging, or irritation. The unflavored base formula uses naturally derived chlorine dioxide that’s incredibly gentle yet highly effective. You can use it as-is or add optional natural flavor drops. The large 32-ounce size offers excellent value for this premium gentle formula.
What We Like
- Absolutely no burn or sting—the gentlest formula available
- pH-balanced with naturally derived active ingredients
- Large size provides excellent value for daily use
What Could Be Better
- Unflavored version may feel less “clean” to some users
- Higher price per ounce than mass-market natural brands
Bottom Line: If you need the absolute gentlest natural mouthwash for a very sensitive mouth, CloSYS delivers powerful protection without any irritation.
5. Tom’s of Maine Wicked Fresh — Best Long-Lasting Freshness
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Tom’s of Maine Wicked Fresh uses natural zinc and essential oils for long-lasting freshness without synthetic ingredients.
This alcohol-free mouthwash combines zinc chloride with natural flavoring from peppermint, spearmint, and wintergreen oils. The formula neutralizes odor-causing compounds rather than masking them, providing hours of fresh breath. As part of Tom’s commitment to natural care, it’s free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives while still delivering effective results.
What We Like
- Natural zinc provides long-lasting odor neutralization
- Essential oil blend delivers refreshing natural mint flavor
- Part of Tom’s sustainable, environmentally conscious brand
What Could Be Better
- Some users find the natural mint flavor less intense than desired
- Available in both fluoride and fluoride-free—must choose carefully
Bottom Line: For those seeking natural, long-lasting freshness from a trusted sustainable brand, Tom’s Wicked Fresh delivers effective results with clean ingredients.
6. GuruNanda Oil Pulling — Best Traditional Ayurvedic
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GuruNanda Oil Pulling combines ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern natural oral care.
This oil-based rinse uses coconut oil as its base, enhanced with essential oils including peppermint, spearmint, and clove. Oil pulling is a traditional practice believed to draw out toxins, reduce bacteria, and promote overall oral health. Unlike water-based rinses, the oil binds to bacteria and toxins, pulling them from your mouth. The pre-measured sachets make this ancient practice convenient for modern life.
What We Like
- Traditional Ayurvedic practice with modern convenience
- Coconut oil base provides natural antibacterial benefits
- Pre-measured sachets eliminate mess and guesswork
What Could Be Better
- Requires 5-10 minutes of swishing versus 30-60 seconds for rinses
- Oil texture takes adjustment if you’re used to traditional mouthwash
Bottom Line: For those interested in traditional Ayurvedic oral care, GuruNanda makes oil pulling accessible and convenient with quality natural ingredients.
7. Dental Herb Company Tooth & Gums Tonic — Best Herbal Healing
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Dental Herb Company Tooth & Gums Tonic uses a concentrated blend of herbal extracts for healing and protection.
This professional-strength herbal rinse combines echinacea, calendula, gotu kola, and essential oils in an alcohol-free base. The concentrated formula is designed to soothe inflammation, promote healing, and support overall gum health through traditional herbal medicine. Particularly effective for those with gum sensitivity or inflammation, it provides gentle yet powerful natural healing.
What We Like
- Professional-grade herbal formula from a dental-focused company
- Concentrated healing herbs support gum health naturally
- Alcohol-free base is gentle on sensitive tissues
What Could Be Better
- Herbal taste may be unfamiliar to those used to mint rinses
- Premium pricing reflects high-quality herbal ingredients
Bottom Line: For those seeking powerful herbal healing for gum problems, Dental Herb Company offers a professional-grade natural solution.
8. Auromere Ayurvedic — Best Holistic Wellness
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Auromere Ayurvedic mouthwash combines traditional Indian botanical ingredients for holistic oral wellness.
This unique formula incorporates neem, peelu, and 24 additional Ayurvedic extracts known for their oral health benefits. Neem has been used for centuries in traditional Indian medicine for its powerful antibacterial properties, while peelu promotes gum health. Free from fluoride, alcohol, artificial flavors, and GMOs, it offers a completely natural approach rooted in ancient wellness traditions.
What We Like
- Authentic Ayurvedic formula with 26 traditional botanicals
- Neem and peelu provide time-tested oral health benefits
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and free from all synthetic ingredients
What Could Be Better
- Distinctive herbal taste differs significantly from conventional rinses
- May require adjustment period to appreciate the unique flavor
Bottom Line: For those seeking authentic Ayurvedic oral care with traditional botanicals, Auromere offers a holistic approach rooted in ancient wellness wisdom.
How to Choose the Best Natural Mouthwash
When selecting a natural mouthwash, first clarify what “natural” means to you personally. Some people prioritize avoiding specific ingredients like alcohol, fluoride, or artificial sweeteners, while others seek plant-based formulations or products certified by organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Natural mouthwashes range from minimally processed options using simple botanical ingredients to sophisticated formulas combining naturally derived compounds with advanced delivery systems. Read ingredient lists carefully and choose products that align with your specific definition of natural.
Consider your primary oral health needs alongside your natural preferences. If you’re dealing with gum disease, look for natural mouthwashes containing proven antibacterial ingredients like tea tree oil, neem, or essential oil blends. For cavity prevention without fluoride, seek options with xylitol or hydroxyapatite. Bad breath sufferers should choose formulas that neutralize odor-causing bacteria rather than just masking smells—look for ingredients like zinc, chlorine dioxide, or oxygenating compounds. Make sure the natural product you choose actually addresses your specific oral health concerns, not just your ingredient preferences.
Evaluate the scientific backing behind natural claims. While many natural ingredients have traditional use and emerging research supporting their benefits, not all natural mouthwashes have undergone rigorous clinical testing. Look for products that combine natural ingredients with scientific formulation—dentist-developed or science-backed natural options often provide better results than purely traditional formulas. The American Dental Association doesn’t typically certify natural mouthwashes since many don’t contain fluoride, but you can still find natural products with strong clinical evidence for their effectiveness.
Don’t sacrifice effectiveness for purity. The best natural mouthwash balances clean ingredients with proven results. If you have serious oral health issues like advanced gum disease or high cavity risk, consult your dentist before relying solely on natural products. Some conditions respond better to conventional therapeutic rinses, at least initially. However, for general oral hygiene, prevention, and mild issues, quality natural mouthwashes can be highly effective while avoiding ingredients you prefer to eliminate from your routine.
Benefits of Using Natural Mouthwash
Natural mouthwashes eliminate exposure to potentially problematic synthetic ingredients found in conventional rinses. Many people want to avoid alcohol, which can dry out mouth tissues and disrupt the oral microbiome when used long-term. Others prefer to skip artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, or avoid controversial ingredients like triclosan. Natural formulas provide effective oral care using plant-based antimicrobials, essential oils, and mineral compounds that work with your body’s natural processes rather than against them.
Plant-based ingredients in natural mouthwashes often provide multiple benefits simultaneously. Essential oils like tea tree, peppermint, and clove offer antibacterial properties while also reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and coconut oil soothe irritated tissues while fighting harmful bacteria. This multi-functional approach means natural mouthwashes can address several oral health concerns at once through complementary botanical actions rather than relying on single synthetic active ingredients.
Using natural mouthwash aligns with broader wellness and environmental values. Many natural oral care brands prioritize sustainable sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, cruelty-free testing, and transparent ingredient disclosure. By choosing these products, you support companies committed to environmental responsibility and ethical practices. Additionally, natural mouthwashes are generally gentler on sensitive mouths—without alcohol burn or harsh chemical irritation, they’re more comfortable to use daily, which means you’re more likely to maintain consistent oral hygiene habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are natural mouthwashes as effective as conventional ones?
Yes, quality natural mouthwashes can be just as effective as conventional formulas for most oral health needs. Ingredients like essential oils, tea tree oil, neem, and chlorine dioxide have demonstrated antibacterial properties comparable to synthetic chemicals. However, for specific therapeutic purposes like cavity prevention, fluoride-containing conventional rinses may be more effective. Choose natural mouthwashes with clinically studied ingredients and realistic expectations about what they can accomplish.
Do natural mouthwashes contain fluoride?
Most natural mouthwashes are fluoride-free, as fluoride is a synthetic addition that doesn’t align with many natural product philosophies. However, some “natural” brands do offer fluoride options for those who want cavity protection. If fluoride is important to you, check labels carefully—some natural brands provide both fluoride and fluoride-free versions. Alternatives like xylitol and hydroxyapatite can provide some cavity protection in fluoride-free formulas.
What makes a mouthwash “natural”?
There’s no official regulatory definition of “natural” for mouthwashes, so standards vary by brand. Generally, natural mouthwashes emphasize plant-based ingredients, avoid synthetic chemicals, and exclude artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Look for certifications like EWG Verified, USDA Organic, or specific claims like “no artificial ingredients” to understand what each brand means by natural. Read ingredient lists to ensure the product meets your personal natural criteria.
Can essential oils in natural mouthwash be harmful?
When properly diluted in mouthwash formulations, essential oils are generally safe for most people. However, some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to specific oils. If you have a known sensitivity to certain plants or essential oils, check ingredient lists carefully. Never use undiluted essential oils in your mouth—stick to properly formulated mouthwashes. Pregnant women and children should consult healthcare providers before using essential oil products.
Is oil pulling better than traditional mouthwash?
Oil pulling and traditional mouthwash serve similar purposes but work differently. Oil pulling requires 10-20 minutes of swishing and binds to bacteria through the oil, while conventional rinses work faster (30-60 seconds) through chemical antimicrobial action. Some people prefer oil pulling’s traditional approach and gentle action, while others find it time-consuming. Both can be effective—choose based on your preferences, time availability, and specific oral health needs.
Can natural mouthwash help with gum disease?
Natural mouthwashes containing antibacterial ingredients like tea tree oil, neem, or essential oil blends can help manage mild gingivitis and support gum health. However, moderate to severe gum disease typically requires professional treatment and may respond better to clinical-strength antimicrobial rinses, at least initially. Natural options work well for prevention and maintaining healthy gums after professional treatment. Always consult your dentist about gum disease treatment.
Why don’t natural mouthwashes have the ADA Seal?
The American Dental Association’s evaluation process emphasizes specific therapeutic claims like cavity prevention, which often requires fluoride—an ingredient many natural mouthwashes exclude. Additionally, ADA testing requires extensive clinical trials that smaller natural brands may not afford. Lack of the ADA Seal doesn’t necessarily mean a natural mouthwash is ineffective, but it does mean it hasn’t undergone that specific certification process. Look for other evidence of effectiveness like clinical studies or dentist recommendations.
Are alcohol-free mouthwashes considered natural?
Not necessarily—alcohol-free just means no ethanol, but the formula may still contain synthetic ingredients, artificial flavors, or chemical preservatives. Many natural mouthwashes are alcohol-free, but not all alcohol-free rinses are natural. If you want both alcohol-free and natural, check the full ingredient list beyond just the alcohol content to ensure the product meets your natural criteria.
