Skip to main content


Mukhwas is far more than just a minty treat to eat after dinner in Indian food culture; it's a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation and enjoyed for its refreshing flavour, ability to aid in digestion and variety of flavours. You can find mukhwas served after lunch at home, served at weddings, or offered at restaurants as part of an Indian meal. Mukhwas is eaten by everyone across India from North India and Gujarat after meals to help with digestion and fresh breath. Cities, such as Ahmedabad, have strong food culture traditions so mukhwas continues to be a commonly found household essential in the city today. What started to be a simple blend of spices, herbs, and seeds has morphed into numerous unique flavours, making mukhwas one of the most popular digestives in all of India. What is Mukhwas? Mukhwas is an Indian mouth freshener that is traditionally taken after meals. The actual meaning of mukhwas comes from combining the two Hindi words: “mukh” meaning mouth and “vas” meaning odour; which together create something that gives an odour to the mouth. Traditionally, mukhwas was made with fennel, sesame, and coriander seeds, betel nuts, sugar coated seeds, coconut flour, and spice blends known for aiding digestion. Today, there are many newer versions that include things like tamarind, mint, dried roses and dried fruits. Reasons Why Mukhwas are Served After a Meal ? Eating mukhwas after a meal has been done for many years in India and is especially common in Gujarat and Rajasthan where most meals are prepared with rich spices and oils. The primary reason people eat mukhwas after they have eaten is to relieve digestive discomfort or to aid with digestion. Common mukhwas ingredients, such as fennel seeds, cumin, sesame and ajwain, all have properties that support digestion and provide relief from bloating and stomach discomfort as well as overall improvement in digestion. Mukhwas Benefits You Should Know Ever wondered why Indians end every meal with mukhwas? Discover the tradition, health benefits, and delicious varieties.