Natural Aloe Vera Mouthwash Recipe

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DIY aloe vera mouthwash is an excellent addition to any oral care routine. It uses just a few natural ingredients that can improve your oral health and freshen breath!

The best part is that it is super simple to make, way more sustainable, and healthier than the store-bought ones.

Whether you’re reducing plastic waste or seeking a healthier routine, this simple mouthwash with aloe vera is a game-changer. Let’s dive into how to make it, why each ingredient matters, and how to get the most out of your mouthwash.

Why make your own mouthwash?

Store-bought mouthwash may promise fresh breath and plaque control, but most contain harsh ingredients, artificial dyes, and non-recyclable packaging. Making your own gives you control over what goes in, and what stays out.

This DIY aloe vera mouth rinse:

• Supports healthy gums
• Reduces plaque and bad breath
• It is entirely alcohol-free and fluoride-free
• Uses plastic-free or low-waste ingredients
• It is easy and affordable to make at home

Ingredients and their benefits

Aloe vera gel

Known for its soothing and antibacterial properties, aloe vera helps reduce gum inflammation, fight cavities, and promote overall oral hygiene. Studies show that aloe mouth rinse significantly reduces gingivitis and plaque buildup.

Where to find aloe vera leaf or gel: Local health stores (they usually sell aloe vera leaves, or health online stores like – The Good Lyfe (UK), Peace with the wild (UK) from Etsy (UK), or Aloeole (Spain & Europe). You can also buy an aloe vera plant and get leaves from it

Distilled water

Used to dilute the gel and ensure the mixture is free of contaminants. If you don’t have distilled water, boiled or filtered water will do in a pinch.

Baking soda

Neutralizes mouth acids, reduces bacteria, and gently whitens teeth, key for an effective aloe vera mouth rinse. You can rely on Arm & Hammer baking soda, or any other brand from local health stores.

Xylitol

A natural sweetener that improves flavor and reduces cavity-causing bacteria. Dentists recommend xylitol for dry mouth and enamel protection, making the mouthwash with aloe vera tastier and more beneficial.

Essential oils (optional but recommended)

Choose 3–4 drops of any:

• Peppermint oil – For a fresh breath boost
• Clove oil – Helps reduce gum pain and bacteria
• Tea tree oil – A powerful antiseptic (1)
• Cinnamon oil – Antibacterial and warming
• Spearmint oil – Gentle and refreshing

⚠️ Always test essential oils on a small area of skin before using and ensure they’re food-grade and therapeutic quality.

DIY Aloe Vera Mouthwash: Step-by-step guide

Watch my video or follow this guide on how to make aloe vera mouthwash:

DIY Aloe Vera Mouthwash (Zero Waste Recipe)

Step 1: Make or buy aloe vera gel

If using a fresh aloe leaf:

1. Wash the leaf thoroughly to remove yellowish latex (bitter and mildly toxic).
2. Dry it, then cut off the spiny edges.
3. Carefully peel off the skin and scoop out the clear gel with a spoon.
4. Store in a clean jar. To extend shelf life, add 1 tsp of vitamin E oil* (natural preservative).

*Add 400 International Units (IU) of vitamin E for every 1/4 cup (60 ml) of aloe vera gel you make. (Source)

🧊 Leftover gel? Freeze it in ice cube trays for up to 6 months or use in smoothies and skin care.

Step 2: Blend the mouthwash

In a blender, combine:

• ½ cup aloe vera gel (120 ml)
• ½ cup distilled or boiled water (118 ml)
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp xylitol
• 3–4 drops essential oil (peppermint recommended)

Blend until smooth.

Step 3: Store it right

Pour into a glass jar or reusable bottle with a lid. Store in the refrigerator, especially if using fresh aloe. It will last for about one week.

If made with store-bought, preserved aloe vera gel, the mouthwash can last up to 2 months.

📌 Label with the date of preparation to keep track.

How to use it:

1. Shake the bottle before each use.
2. Pour a small amount into a glass.
3. Swish around your mouth for 20–30 seconds.
4. Gargle briefly, then spit out. Do not swallow.

Use daily after brushing or whenever you need a breath refresh.

FAQ

Is homemade mouthwash safe?
Yes, it’s safe when used properly and made with quality ingredients. Avoid swallowing. If you’re concerned about using DIY mouthwash, talk with your dentist. 

Note: I shared this recipe with my dentist, and she reviewed & approved it. 🙂

Can I use essential oils?
Yes, essential oils are safe in mouthwash if not swallowed. A 2008 Evidence-Based Dentistry review showed they help reduce plaque and gingivitis. Just be sure to use high-quality, therapeutic-grade oils.

How do I improve the taste?
To improve the taste of homemade aloe vera mouthwash, add xylitol. It enhances flavor, fights cavity-causing bacteria, and boosts saliva production to protect tooth enamel.

Why does the mouthwash change color?
Aloe vera gel tends to oxidize quickly once it is exposed to air. The gel is likely to turn pink or even red in a matter of minutes. (see the image below for a reference) Additionally, aloe vera plants exposed to a high level of sun or grown in poor soil can result in red aloe vera gel. But don’t worry, it is safe.

What to do with leftover aloe vera gel?
Leftover aloe vera gel can be eaten for health benefits or used in other DIY recipes – like adding to smoothies, mixing with lemon juice and agave, blending with pineapple juice, or making other skincare products, like this moisturizing shaving gel.

Can I freeze aloe vera gel?
Yes! Freeze in portions and use within 6 months.

Are there any side effects?
Avoid ingesting the yellow aloe latex (aloin) – it’s a laxative. Wash aloe thoroughly and never eat gel raw or alone. If you have liver, intestinal, heart, or electrolyte problems or take diabetes, diuretics, or laxative medication, talk with your doctor before consuming aloe vera juice.