1. Yogurt for Bad Breath
Yogurt’s live probiotic cultures can help reduce the population of odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. These friendly bacteria compete with harmful ones, potentially lowering the production of sulfur compounds responsible for bad breath. While not a substitute for good oral hygiene, plain unsweetened yogurt is a natural option that may complement brushing and flossing.
Scientific evidence supporting yogurt’s effect on breath is limited but promising. Some small studies suggest that consuming yogurt with live cultures can reduce oral bacterial counts and improve breath freshness over time.
To try this remedy, choose plain, unsweetened yogurt containing live and active cultures. Eating a half-cup daily after meals may help. Avoid yogurts with added sugars which can feed harmful bacteria instead.
- Use plain, unsweetened yogurt with live cultures.
- Consume about half a cup daily, preferably after meals.
- Avoid flavored or sugary yogurts that may worsen breath.
People with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies should proceed cautiously or choose probiotic supplements instead.
2. Olives for Motion Sickness
Olives contain tannins, a type of plant compound that can reduce saliva production. Excess saliva buildup often accompanies nausea and contributes to the queasy feeling experienced during motion sickness. This traditional remedy uses the drying effect of olives to help ease nausea symptoms.
Though widely used in folk medicine, there is little formal research confirming olives’ effectiveness against motion sickness. However, tannins are known to have astringent properties, which could plausibly reduce saliva and mitigate nausea sensations.
To use this remedy, eat a small handful of plain olives before or during travel that tends to cause motion sickness. Opt for unsalted or lightly salted varieties to avoid excessive sodium intake. Continue as needed throughout the journey.
- Choose plain, pitted olives without heavy brining.
- Eat 5 to 10 olives before travel begins.
- Avoid overconsumption due to salt content.
This remedy is generally safe, but people with high blood pressure should watch salt intake from olives.
