10 Best Herbal Creams For Difficulty Eating

Herbal creams for difficulty eating are natural topical treatments that aim to alleviate oral discomfort and improve the ability to chew and swallow.

These creams often contain ingredients like chamomile, calendula, or licorice root, which are known for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. They can help reduce pain, irritation, or inflammation in the mouth, making it easier for individuals to eat without discomfort. While they are not a cure for underlying medical conditions, they can provide relief and support during recovery.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal creams, especially if the difficulty eating is due to a more serious condition.

1. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, is traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

When incorporated into creams, glycyrrhiza glabra may help alleviate discomfort in the throat and mouth, which can contribute to difficulty eating. These creams are often formulated with other natural ingredients to enhance their effectiveness and provide additional relief. However, it is important to note that while some individuals may find relief from licorice-based creams, they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment for underlying conditions.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for those with known allergies or medical conditions.

2. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.

Herbal creams containing ginger extract may help alleviate difficulty eating by reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and easing nausea. These creams are often applied topically to the abdomen or chest, where they can provide soothing relief to the muscles and organs involved in digestion. While they are not a cure for underlying digestive disorders, they may offer symptomatic relief for individuals experiencing discomfort during eating.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions or who are taking other medications.

3. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a popular herbal remedy traditionally used to support immune function.

While it is often consumed as a tea or supplement, some formulations include echinacea in topical creams, which are marketed for their potential anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. These creams may be used to alleviate discomfort in the mouth or throat, which can indirectly support difficulty eating by reducing irritation or inflammation. However, there is limited scientific evidence specifically linking echinacea creams to improved eating ability in individuals with swallowing or oral discomfort.

It is important to consult a healthcare provider before using echinacea products, especially for those with existing medical conditions or taking other medications.

4. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a plant that has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential health benefits.

While it is not directly used to treat difficulty eating, some herbal creams containing stinging nettle may be applied topically to alleviate symptoms of conditions that indirectly affect eating, such as inflammation or skin irritation. These creams are often marketed for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which may help reduce discomfort in the mouth or throat. However, there is limited scientific evidence supporting the use of urtica dioica creams for digestive or swallowing difficulties.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

5. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is often used in herbal creams to alleviate difficulty eating, particularly when gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating or nausea accompanies the issue.

These creams typically contain menthol, which has a cooling effect that can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, potentially easing swallowing and reducing the sensation of food sticking in the throat. The application of peppermint-based creams to the neck or throat area may provide localized relief by stimulating blood flow and reducing inflammation. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using such creams, especially if the difficulty eating is due to an underlying medical condition.

While some people find peppermint creams helpful for mild digestive discomfort, they should not replace medical treatment for more severe or persistent eating difficulties.

6. Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Silybum marianum, commonly known as milk thistle, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its potential liver-protecting properties.

While it is often used in the form of supplements or teas, some herbal creams containing silybum marianum have been developed to address skin-related issues, though they are not typically marketed for difficulty eating. Difficulty eating, such as dysphagia, is a condition that affects the ability to swallow, and it is primarily related to the musculoskeletal or neurological systems rather than liver function. As a result, herbal creams containing silybum marianum are unlikely to directly alleviate difficulty eating.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment options for dysphagia, as it may require a multidisciplinary approach involving diet modifications, therapy, or medical interventions.

7. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its warming and soothing properties.

When incorporated into herbal creams, it may help alleviate discomfort associated with difficulty eating by reducing inflammation and improving circulation in the oral and throat areas. These creams are often formulated with other complementary ingredients like ginger or peppermint to enhance their therapeutic effects. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using such creams, especially for individuals with allergies or existing medical conditions.

While some anecdotal evidence suggests potential benefits, more scientific research is needed to fully understand its efficacy in addressing eating difficulties.

8. Common grape (Vitis vinifera)

Vitis vinifera, commonly known as the grapevine plant, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential health benefits.

While it is well-known for its role in winemaking and as a source of antioxidants, Vitis vinifera herbal creams have been explored for their soothing properties. These creams are often formulated with extracts from the leaves and berries of the plant, which may help reduce inflammation and support overall oral health. Some studies suggest that these creams may alleviate discomfort associated with difficulty eating by promoting healing of oral tissues.

However, more research is needed to fully understand their efficacy and safety for this specific use.

9. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Herbal creams infused with curcuma longa may help alleviate inflammation in the mouth and throat, which can contribute to difficulty eating. These creams are often used topically to soothe conditions like oral ulcers, canker sores, or inflammation caused by infections. While they are not a cure for underlying medical issues, they can provide temporary relief and improve comfort during eating.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional before using curcuma longa creams, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

10. Dog rose (Rosa canina)

Rosa canina, also known as rosehip, is a traditional herbal ingredient often used in creams and supplements for its potential health benefits.

Rosa canina herbal creams are believed to support joint health and reduce inflammation, which may indirectly aid in making eating easier for individuals with certain conditions. These creams are typically made from the seeds and outer husks of rosehips, which are rich in essential oils, vitamins, and antioxidants. While they are not a direct solution for difficulty eating, they may help alleviate related symptoms such as stiffness or pain that could impact a person's ability to chew or swallow.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional before using these products, especially for those with existing medical conditions or who are taking other medications.