Bad breath is a common symptom of the healing crisis. Your tongue is one of the escape routes for toxins trying to leave your body. These toxins cause mucous and bacteria to build up at the back, or root, of the tongue and create a white film. This film harbors millions of sulfur-producing bacteria that cause bad breath. It also inhibits optimal dental hygiene and the functioning of your taste buds. When you start your Organic Detox™ program this symptom might get a little worse before it gets better.

The Benefits of a Tongue Scraper

Tongue scraping promotes healthier digestion because when salivary glands are cleaned, it activates them and enhances digestion.

Taste will also be improved with a clean tongue surface. When taste buds are clogged up by film and bacteria your body won't receive the proper signals from its food. Satiety is signaled by flavors. That means if you cannot truly taste your food you will want to eat more than you need because you will never feel fully satisfied.

Tongue cleaning revitalizes the throat and keeps the sinuses cleaner by reducing bacteria that can travel into the respiratory system.

Dentists are now recommending tongue cleaning to keep the mouth clean and reduce odor. They have learned that bad breath most often comes from bacteria on the tongue rather than from gum disease.

How to use a Tongue Scraper

Some people will use their toothbrush to clean their tongue. This practice tends to just stir up the bacteria instead of actually removing them from your mouth. Choose a metal tongue scraper if possible to avoid plastics.

1. Scrape forward several times, rinsing the white film off of the scraper between each scraping.
2. It is important to get the back of the tongue which may create a gag reflex, but this will lesser with practice. Be gentle when you scrape.
3. Rinse your mouth with water.
4. Clean and dry your scraper with water - you may occasionally want to use toothpaste or baking soda to disinfect.