When we think of mouthwash, most of us immediately picture the sharp bite of peppermint or the cool scent of spearmint. Mint has long been the go-to option, with the occasional bubblegum flavor appearing as a rare, kid-friendly alternative. But the world of oral care (and its fragrance) has seen subtle changes throughout the years. As a result, mouthwash is no longer just about minty freshness.
Welcome to the evolving world of scented mouthwash, where fresh breath meets luxurious, intriguing aromas. Imagine being able to refresh your breath with a gentle, lingering scent that improves your daily routine – a simple yet indulgent way to transform an otherwise mundane habit. Even the prestigious fragrance house Guerlain experimented in this space with their mouthwash Elixir de Guerlain. On a similar note, rosewater offers an innovative example of scented mouthwash, combining not only a beautiful fragrance but also health benefits. These unique creations show that oral care can be as much about enjoyment, delightful fragrances, and health as it is about hygiene.
Rosewater and Rose-Scented Mouthwash
Take Floris London's Rose Mouthwash, which reimagines what a mouthwash can be. Instead of the usual strong menthol flavor, it has the delicate scent of pure rosewater. This floral mouthwash offers a pleasant experience for the senses. Fans often rave about how enjoyable it is to use while still being good for oral hygiene. Just six drops in a glass of water will refresh your breath with a hint of rose – a lovely change from the strong medicinal aroma we’re all used to.
Interestingly, rosewater also has antibacterial properties. A study published in Tanaffos found that rosewater mouthwash can significantly reduce the risk of early-onset ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in ICU patients, thanks to its broad-spectrum antibacterial effects against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
A separate study published in Quintessence International explored the effectiveness of a mouthwash containing rosewater extract in treating recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), or canker sores. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that Rosa damascena mouthwash significantly reduced pain, ulcer size, and the number of sores compared to the placebo group by day 4, with continued improvement by day 7.
These studies reveal that rosewater isn't just a pleasant addition to scented mouthwash; it also has real health benefits. Imagine using a mouthwash that not only smells good but also aids in pain relief and healing!
Eau de Botot: A Vintage Approach
In 1755, Doctor Edme François-Julien Botot invented what is believed to be one of the world's first toothpaste and mouthwash products for King Louis XV of France, L’Eau de Botot.
This mouthwash, with a natural gillyflower base, was designed to warm the gum line first and then cleanse. It claimed to help with dental pain and maintain gum health. Over time, Eau de Botot became famous for its use of natural ingredients like anise, cinnamon, and ginger. The original formula, as listed in the Spring Grove Formulary of August 8, 1899, included cloves, cinnamon, anise, cochineal for coloring, peppermint oil, and alcohol. The presence of clove, in particular, adds a warm, spicy scent that continues to be valued.
Years later, Frédéric Malle, a renowned figure in the world of luxury perfumery, found inspiration in the vintage charm of Eau de Botot. In 2009, Malle asked master perfumer Dominique Ropion to create Géranium pour Monsieur, a fragrance that was influenced by the Eau de Botot mouthwash used by Malle's father. Malle and Ropion believed that this scent could inspire their perfumes. As Malle described, "One day, I was having lunch with Dominique. We then went to a pharmacy to buy Eau de Botot. ‘Cause maybe if you put something else on it, we can create a perfume."
The warm blend of spices in Eau de Botot feels very different from the icy freshness of menthol. Many also agree that the mix of gillyflower, cinnamon, and ginger feels more like an artisanal product than something mass-produced. It’s an indulgent, nostalgic experience that shows oral care can have just as much character and history as a fine perfume. The vintage charm of Eau de Botot makes it a great choice for those who appreciate tradition and craftsmanship in their self-care routines.
Luxury in Everyday Routines
Imagine opening your bathroom cabinet to find a frosted glass bottle filled with soft pink liquid, the scent of roses lightly perfuming the air. Or perhaps a small bottle of mouthwash with scents like anise and clove, reminiscent of old apothecaries. These products and their aromas bring a sense of glamor that turns mouthwash from a basic necessity into an indulgent experience.
Scented mouthwashes can change how we approach our daily routines. Instead of treating oral care like a boring task to get through, these beautifully crafted mouthwashes encourage us to slow down and enjoy the process. Their scents and packaging make them feel like luxury items – and in a way, they are. They remind us that even simple actions, like rinsing our mouths, can be turned into moments of pleasure and self-care. It’s a small but meaningful way to add beauty to everyday life and make even mundane activities feel a little more special.
