An efficacious antibacterial and anti-inflammatory oral composition is provided having an active ingredient combination comprising one or more active compounds from an extract of magnolia and an extract of hops. Preferably, the active compounds from magnolia extract comprise honokiol and magnolol, and the active compounds from hops extract comprise hexahydrogenated beta acids. The oral composition can be in the form of a mouth rinse or dentifrice, including toothpaste, gels, powders, confectionaries, lozenges, animal products, and the like. Methods of making and using the oral composition are also provided.
