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Everything you wanted to know about smells
Chew clovesDr. Mel Rosenberg31.12.69, 17:59
 Iraqis have, since time immemorial (I say that, not being able to give a specific date), been chewing clove to freshen breath. Not everyone likes the taste of cloves, but they do contain substances that are anathema to bacteria.
The antibacterial agents (primarily eugenol) are oily and can be derived from the clove in the form of essential oil, and can be incorporated into mouthwashes, toothpastes, etc.
Clove oil also has analgesic (pain relieving) properties, and is used by dentists for all sorts of things. That's why the smell of clove may remind you of your dentists' office.
Other essential oils that have some antibacterial activity in the mouth include those derived from eucalyptus, cinnamon and mint. Since most westerners associated minty taste with freshness, most breath freshening products have this flavor, even though its antibacterial properties are not as strong as other essential oils. Chewing parsley and oregano leaves has also been recommended as a remedy for bad breath.
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