If you’ve ever smoked weed, you know that the unmistakable smell of cannabis can sometimes linger long after your session. Whether you’re trying to avoid detection in a social setting, in the workplace, or simply want to freshen up, eliminating weed breath can feel like a bit of a challenge. Thankfully, there are many different remedies to help neutralize that distinct odor, from simple home remedies to effective products you can carry on the go. Here's a list of common recommendations for how to get rid of weed breath.
Hydrate with Water
Cannabis can dry out your mouth (“cotton mouth”), leading to a more pronounced and lingering odor. Drinking plenty of water helps wash away particles, stimulate saliva production, and freshen your breath. Additionally, water helps combat the dry-mouth feeling that often accompanies smoking.
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Tip: Sip water throughout your smoking session and after to best prevent your breath from smelling.
Chew Gum or Mints
Gum and mints are classic, quick fixes for bad breath—and they work just as well for weed breath. Strong flavors like mint, cinnamon, or eucalyptus will overpower the weed smell, providing instant freshness.
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Tip: Look for gums and mints sweetened with xylitol or stevia for a healthier alternative to sugar-laden options.
Drink Green Tea or Herbal Tea
Green tea contains antioxidants and polyphenols that are known to combat bad breath. Drinking green tea or herbal teas like peppermint, fennel, or ginger tea after smoking can help neutralize the odor and promote fresh breath.
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Tip: Choose organic teas that are free from artificial sweeteners or flavors for the best results.
Brush Your Teeth and Use Mouthwash
Simple enough, right? Brushing your teeth is one of the most effective ways to remove lingering weed smell. Cannabis particles can stick to your teeth, gums, and tongue, so a thorough brushing will help clear them out.
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Tip: Follow up with a mouthwash that contains natural ingredients like peppermint oil or tea tree oil. Avoid alcohol based mouthwashes to avoid dry mouth.
Chew Parsley or Mint Leaves
Chewing a few sprigs of fresh herbs like parsley or mint can neutralize odors due to their high chlorophyll content. Parsley, in particular, is a natural deodorizer that helps to eliminate bad breath caused by both food and smoking.
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Tip: Carry a small bag of fresh herbs with you if you know you’ll be smoking in social settings where weed breath might be a concern.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Mouthwash
Apple cider vinegar is known for its detoxifying properties, and it can help balance the pH levels in your mouth, neutralizing odors in the process. To use, mix one teaspoon of ACV with a glass of water and swish it around your mouth for 10–15 seconds. The acidity of the vinegar will help remove the cannabis smell.
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Tip: ACV is quite potent, so always dilute it with water to avoid irritation to your gums and mouth.
Baking Soda Rinse
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is another effective, natural remedy for freshening your breath. Its mild abrasiveness helps to scrub your teeth and neutralize odors. To use, mix a small amount of baking soda with water and swish it around your mouth, or apply it directly to your toothbrush and gently scrub your teeth.
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Tip: Baking soda also helps to whiten teeth, so it’s a win-win for both breath freshness and oral hygiene.
Chew Cinnamon or Cloves
Cinnamon sticks and whole cloves have natural deodorizing properties and can quickly mask the smell of weed by chewing on them. Both contain essential oils that fight bacteria in the mouth and leave a fresh, spicy aftertaste.
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Tip: Both cinnamon and cloves have antibacterial properties that help to eliminate the bacteria responsible for bad breath.
Eat Breath-Freshening Foods
Certain fruits and vegetables are known for their breath-freshening properties. Apples, carrots, celery, and cucumbers are all high in water content and fiber, which help to scrub your teeth and neutralize odors naturally.
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Tip: Apples, in particular, are packed with polyphenols that fight bad breath and can reduce the lingering smell of cannabis.
Activate Charcoal or Carbon Tablets
Activated charcoal is often touted for its ability to absorb toxins and odors, including bad breath. While the idea of swallowing charcoal might seem strange, it’s a popular remedy for neutralizing odors in the mouth. You can take activated charcoal tablets or use charcoal-based toothpaste for freshening up.
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Warning: Be sure to use activated charcoal designed for oral use, and consult with a healthcare professional before using it regularly, especially if you have any existing health conditions.
Stay Prepared
There are countless ways and natural remedies to combat weed breath, whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a more long-term solution. Ultimately, it's about finding the remedies that work best for you and making sure that you’re prepared for any situation. Whether you're on the go or lounging at home, keeping a few of these remedies handy can help you confidently address weed breath whenever it strikes.