The Importance of Tongue Cleaning for Bad Breath and Overall Health

Rajasthan Healthy Foods
Mar 5, 2024
6 min read

Introduction

When someone has bad breath, it is often assumed that it is due to a stomach illness or lack of oral hygiene. However, many people are unaware that the root of the tongue can be a major cause of bad breath. The back of the tongue, known as the Jiva Mul, is often covered in a thick layer of decomposing material, which can extend to the tip of the tongue in some cases. This unhealthy condition of the tongue can lead to a variety of disorders and health issues. Therefore, it is crucial to keep the tongue clean for overall oral and bodily health.

The Root Cause of Bad Breath

One of the major contributors to bad breath is the root of the tongue, known as the Jiva Mul. This area is often covered in a thick layer of decomposing material, giving off an unpleasant odor. The decomposing material can extend from the back of the tongue to the tip, creating a significant cause of bad breath.

Doctors often ask their patients to stick out their tongues to assess their overall health, as the tongue is associated with various organs and systems in the body, including the thyroid, lungs, heart, kidneys, stomach, and colon. Therefore, an unhealthy condition of the tongue can lead to a range of disorders and health implications beyond just bad breath.

To address this root cause of bad breath, it is essential to clean the tongue regularly. In India, it is a common practice to use a U-shaped tongue cleaner made of copper, silver, or stainless steel in the morning. Scraping the tongue with a tongue cleaner not only helps to remove the decomposing material responsible for bad breath but also aids in eliminating toxins from the body.

Health Implications of an Unclean Tongue

The tongue plays a crucial role in our overall health, as it is associated with the digestive and excretory systems. When the root of the tongue is not properly cleaned, it can lead to various health implications beyond just bad breath.

An unclean tongue can contribute to digestive issues, such as constipation, as well as affect the functioning of organs like the thyroid, lungs, heart, kidneys, stomach, and colon. It is important to maintain a clean tongue to promote proper digestion, eliminate toxins, and reduce the risk of developing these health issues.

Regularly cleaning the root of the tongue can help stimulate the digestive system and promote regular bowel movements. This practice, known as Jiva Mul Shodhan or cleansing of the root of the tongue, involves using the fingertips to remove any mucus that may accumulate at the back of the tongue. By incorporating this detox method into your oral hygiene routine, you can not only combat bad breath but also support the overall health of your body.

Traditional Tongue Cleaning Methods

In India, it is a common practice to use a U-shaped tongue cleaner made of copper, silver, or stainless steel to clean the tongue in the morning. This traditional method involves scraping the surface of the tongue to remove the decomposing material responsible for bad breath. By using a tongue cleaner, you not only improve your oral hygiene but also eliminate toxins from your body.

In the past, people would also use a piece of neem or babul tree to clean their tongues. They would slit the twig in half and use it as a tongue cleaner. This natural approach provided an effective way to remove any residue on the tongue.

Both of these traditional tongue cleaning methods have been used for generations and are still widely practiced today. Incorporating these techniques into your daily oral hygiene routine can help keep your tongue clean, fresh, and free from bad breath.

Yoga Practice for Cleansing the Root of the Tongue

In addition to traditional tongue cleaning methods, there is a simple and effective yoga practice called Jiva Mul Shodhan that can help cleanse the root of the tongue. This practice involves using the fingertips to remove any mucus that may accumulate at the back of the tongue.

To perform Jiva Mul Shodhan, stand in front of a basin after brushing your teeth and cleaning your tongue. Open your mouth wide and put your index and middle finger inside. Gently rub the tips of your fingers along the back of your tongue, moving them from the root towards the tip. Repeat this motion two to three times until you feel the sensation of wanting to throw up.

After completing the tongue cleansing exercise, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to remove any remaining residue. This yoga practice not only reduces bad breath but also activates your taste buds and stimulates your digestive system.

Jiva Mul Shodhan is a detox method that helps improve the overall health of your body. By incorporating this practice into your daily routine, you can promote regular bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Jiva Mul Shodhan

To perform Jiva Mul Shodhan, follow these step-by-step instructions:

Brush your teeth and clean your tongue with a tongue cleaner.
Stand in front of a basin with your mouth wide open.
Insert your index and middle finger into your mouth.
Gently rub the tips of your fingers along the back of your tongue, starting from the root and moving towards the tip.
Repeat this motion two to three times, until you feel the sensation of wanting to throw up.
Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to remove any residue.

By regularly practicing Jiva Mul Shodhan, you can not only combat bad breath but also support the overall health of your body. This simple and effective technique can be easily incorporated into your daily oral hygiene routine for optimal results.

Additional Techniques for Oral Health

In addition to regular tongue cleaning, there are several other techniques you can incorporate into your oral health routine to maintain a healthy mouth:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent cavities.
Floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach.
Use mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Avoid tobacco products, as they can stain your teeth and contribute to gum disease.
Eat a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support overall oral health.
Limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks, as they can lead to tooth decay.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to rinse away food particles and keep your mouth hydrated.
Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to address any oral health issues and maintain optimal oral hygiene.

By incorporating these additional techniques into your oral health routine, you can maintain a healthy mouth, fresh breath, and overall good oral health.

Benefits of Regular Tongue Cleaning

Regular tongue cleaning offers several benefits for your oral health:

Reduces bad breath: Cleaning the root of the tongue helps remove the decomposing material responsible for bad breath, leaving your breath fresh and odor-free.
Enhances taste buds: By removing the coating on the tongue, you can improve your sense of taste and enjoy the flavors of food and beverages more fully.
Prevents oral health issues: Tongue cleaning helps eliminate toxins and bacteria from the mouth, reducing the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.
Improves digestion: Keeping the root of the tongue clean stimulates the digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements and reducing the risk of constipation.
Promotes overall health: The tongue is connected to various organs and systems in the body, and maintaining a clean tongue can help support the health of these organs and systems.

By making tongue cleaning a regular part of your oral hygiene routine, you can reap these benefits and enjoy improved oral and overall health.

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