7 Easy Ways To Get Rid Of Bad Durian Breath
If you simply can't tahan the smell of it in your mouth.
By Jeremy Ng — 21 Jul 2021, 05:43 PM
Some of us love the whole experience of eating durian, but not so much the aftertaste and bad breath it leaves behind
Disclaimer: The author only had his first taste of durian when he turned 18 (his parents didn't allow durian in the house). This may or may not have affected why he enjoys the fruit but not the lingering aftertaste.
1. Durian husk + salt water
According to scientists, durian husks contain 5-hidroxy-methyl-furfural (5-HMF), a compound that acts as a deodorising agent. On the other hand, salt water prevents bacteria from growing in your mouth, which also helps get rid of bad durian breath.
After eating your durian, pour water and salt into the empty husk, then use a fork to scrape the sides. Mix well, then rinse your mouth a few times with it.
2. Cucumbers
Fibrous vegetables like cucumbers boost your saliva production, which helps to wash away any odour-causing bacteria in your mouth. Apparently, cucumber also contains phytochemicals, which destroy bacteria that cause bad breath.
Besides munching on this cooling vegetable, you can also try placing a slice of cucumber between your tongue and the roof of your mouth for 90 seconds.
3. Lime juice
One way to lessen the aftertaste of durian is to drink citrus juices, like lime juice and lemon juice. The citrusy scent is able to overpower the pungent smell of durian. You can also add in some asam boi for good measure.
4. Coffee beans
If you're a coffee lover and can't stand the aftertaste of durian, this is the solution for you.
Coffee beans are known to get rid of odours, and it works with bad durian breath as well. Grab a few roasted coffee beans and munch on them for a minute or so. Just be careful not to go overboard, because coffee beans pack a punch of caffeine!
5. Spices
Spices like fennel seed, cardamom, and coriander seed can act as natural mouth fresheners.
Fennels seeds contain aromatic oils that sweeten your breath naturally. Chewing on a pod of cardamom will release a refreshing fragrance in your mouth. The aromatic flavour of coriander seeds will also help mask your bad durian breath.
6. Green tea
Green tea is known to have antibacterial properties that fight germs in your mouth and keep your breath smelling fresh. Plus, it comes with loads of other benefits, including better digestion and reducing the risk of certain diseases.
After a durian session, make a pot of green tea and keep drinking until it washes all the bad breath away!
7. Herbs
If you have some mint or parsley in the kitchen, you can pluck a few leaves and chew on them for a couple of minutes.
Mint leaves will give you a refreshing, clean breath, while parsley also contains natural deodorising qualities.
