Halitosis refers to foul or bad breath, which is not an uncommon condition. Unfortunately, most people who offend in this respect are completely unaware of their problem. Let's face it, bad breath is embarrassing. The good news is that for the most part-with proper dental care-bad breath, also called halitosis, can be avoided.

1. Among the several home remedies for halitosis, the use of fenugreek has proved most effective. A tea made from the seeds of this vegetable should be taken regularly for correcting the condition. This tea is prepared by putting one teaspoon of seeds in half a litre of cold water and allowing it to simmer for fifteen minutes over a low flame. It should then be strained and used as tea.

2. In the morning and at night before bed take the juice ofone fresh squeezed lemon and mix with a little honey to taste and drink. Besides the absence of bad breath, you will also notice that you will feel more energized and rejuvenated. For extra punch, may also add cinnamon or cayenne powder.

3. Mix extracts of sage, calendula, and myrrh gum (all available at health food stores) in equal proportions and gargle with the mixture four times a day. Keep the mouthwash in a tightly sealed jar at room temperature. Even when you can't brush, you can rinse. Take a sip of water after meals, swish it around, and wash the smell of food from your mouth.

4. Use about 1 tsp. of salt in an 8-oz. glass of water. Mix this salt well until you can no longer see it. Gargle with the salt water. This will help clean out bacteria, food particles and mucus from your palate and the back of your throat.

5. Drinking a hot cup of tea (preferably unsweetened) helps. This remedy is particulary useful if the bad breath is caused by dry mouth and for "morning" bad breath.

6. Another effective remedy for bad breath is avocado, which is far superior to any mouth lotion or remedies for this condition. It effectively removes intestinal putrefaction or decomposition which is one of the most important causes of bad breath.

7. In many cases, stomach problems may be the source of the bad breath. One of the top home remedies for helping your digestive system and getting rid of bad breath is to take 1 tsp. of apple cider vinegar. Many people find this a bit hard to stomach, so you can mix this with an 8-oz. glass of water in order to get the benefit. This is one of the best bad breath cure.

8. Camembert, Roquefort, and blue cheese are called strong for good reason-they get a hold on your breath and don't let go. Other dairy products may have the same effect.

9. Many herbs can have a positive impact on bad breath. Mint is one of the best alternatives to get rid of bad breath. You can also chew basil, thyme and wintergreen to neutralize bad breath. Parsley is very high in chlorophyll, which is very good at neutralizing garlic-induced bad breath.