When you think of mouthwash, “green tea” might not be the first thing that comes to mind — but it deserves consideration.
Many commercial mouthwashes contain ingredients that can cause problems over time. For that reason, I encourage people to consider natural mouthwash alternatives or DIY recipes rather than relying on conventional products marketed on TV. Research shows that green tea-based rinses can offer meaningful oral health benefits without the harsh effects associated with some over-the-counter mouthwashes.
Green tea mouthwash has been shown to:
- Reduce sulfur compounds responsible for bad breath
- Improve inflammation associated with gingivitis
- Reduce plaque that contributes to tooth decay and gum disease
Below is a simple, effective matcha green tea mouthwash you can make at home. Rinse once or twice daily for best results.
DIY Matcha Green Tea Mouthwash
Swap out burning, alcohol-based mouthwashes for this gentle, natural matcha green tea rinse that targets odor, inflammation, and plaque.
- Author: Mark Burhenne DDS
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 packet Pique Pu’er Green Tea, or 1 teaspoon ceremonial grade matcha or green tea of your choice
- ½ teaspoon calcium carbonate
- ½ teaspoon L-Arginine
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½–1 tablespoon xylitol (melted in 2 tablespoons hot water)
Instructions
1. Add all ingredients to a jar with a lid or a high-speed blender.

2. Shake or blend until well combined.

3. Use 1 tablespoon and swish in your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then spit. Do not swallow.

Notes
This mouthwash can be kept in the refrigerator or stored at room temperature for up to two weeks. Shake well before each use.
References
- Rassameemasmaung S., Phusudsawang P., & Sangalungkarn V. (2013). Effect of green tea mouthwash on oral malodor. ISRN Preventive Medicine. (Full text available from academic sources.)
- Priya B. M., Anitha V., Shanmugam M., et al. (2015). Efficacy of chlorhexidine and green tea mouthwashes in the management of dental plaque-induced gingivitis: A comparative clinical study. Contemporary Clinical Dentistry, 6(4), 505. (Full text available from academic sources.)
- Rozmoozi E., Bekhradi R., Taleba M. R., et al. (2018). Effect of green tea mouthwash on reducing plaque and gingivitis. J Dent Health Oral Disord Ther. 9(2): 207-210. (Full text available from academic sources.)