3 cups distilled water 2 tsp. fresh mint leaves 1 tsp. fresh rosemary leaves 1 tsp. anise seeds 1 tsp. (or more to taste) powdered xylitol Coffee filter Heatproof jar or bottle Pour 3 cups of distilled water into a heavy saucep Distilled water is preferable to ordinary tap water because it doesn't contain any impurities. Add 2 tsp. of fresh mint and 1 tsp. of rosemary leaves and 1 tsp. anise seeds Bring the pot to a boil and simmer the solution for 20 minutes to extract the oils from the herbs. Remove the pot from the heat and cool the contents to room temperature. Strain the solution through a paper coffee filter into a heatproof jar. Add 1 tsp. (more or less to taste) of powdered xylitol and stir to dissolve completely. I add a couple of tablespoons of tea tree oil, as antibacterial and preservative. Pour the xylitol mouthwash into a bottle or jar and cap it tightly. Use it as often as you like as a healthy, refreshing mouthwash. Store the unused portion in a cool location.