Want your breath to smell like a romance novel lead’s? Munch on these

If you read internet fiction, you've met him. The brooding lead. He's tall, mysterious, and when he kisses the heroine? He smells of mint. Or eucalyptus. Or rain. Never garlic pickle or two-day-old filter coffee.

Let’s face it: fresh breath is part of the fantasy, and it should be part of real life too. Morning breath, onion breath, alcohol breath, fish curry breath... some smells are best left out of your romantic narrative.

What causes bad breath, anyway?
Bad breath has many causes. Morning breath happens when your mouth dries out overnight, letting bacteria thrive. Onions and garlic release sulphur compounds that stay in your system long after eating. Alcohol and coffee both dry out your mouth, making it easier for bacteria to grow. Fish and meat can leave behind lingering smells thanks to strong-smelling proteins.

These kitchen heroes can freshen your breath naturally
You don’t need fancy sprays or chewing gum that tastes like sweetened detergent. Here’s what you probably already have at home that can help:

Mint leaves
Chew a few fresh mint leaves after a meal. This one’s a cliché for a reason. Mint works.

Parsley or coriander
These herbs contain chlorophyll, which helps neutralize odours. They’re basically edible mouthwash.

Lemon
Lemon juice helps kill bacteria and stimulate saliva. Add it to warm water or suck on a wedge if you can handle it.

Apples
Raw apples help break down sulphur compounds from garlic and onions. Crunchy and juicy, they work as natural mouth cleansers.

Warm salt water
Not a food, but a quick gargle does wonders, especially after a fish or meat-heavy meal.

Green tea
It contains catechins that help reduce bacteria and deodorize your mouth. Sip warm after meals.

Fennel seeds
Common in Indian kitchens, these sweet seeds are naturally antimicrobial and refreshing.

Crunchy veggies
Carrots, cucumber, and celery help scrub teeth and boost saliva, which washes away bacteria.

Quick breath-freshening combos

After eating onions: munch on apple slices or chew fennel seeds.

After a night out: hydrate and drink lemon water or green tea.

Before a date: keep mint leaves or coriander sprigs in your bag.

At work: a small box of fennel seeds beats sugary breath mints.

The spicy fictional hero might not be real, but his minty breath can be. And all it takes is a look inside your kitchen.