Difficulty Swallowing Causes, Medicinal Herbs And Herbal Preparations
Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, is a condition characterized by the inability to pass food, liquids, or saliva through the esophagus and into the stomach, often causing discomfort, pain, and nutritional deficiencies.
Herbal remedies have been used to treat dysphagia due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and soothing properties.
Certain herbs such as Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra), Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis) are commonly used to treat dysphagia as they form a protective mucous coating on the esophageal lining, reducing inflammation and irritation.
Herbal preparations like teas, tinctures, and infusions, as well as topical applications such as ointments and poultices, can be used to administer these herbs, with teas being particularly beneficial for soothing the esophagus and promoting relaxation.
What causes difficulty swallowing?
The primary causes of difficulty swallowing are neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis, which affect the nerve signals that control swallowing.
Secondary causes can include esophageal disorders, such as esophagitis and esophageal cancer, which can lead to inflammation, scarring, and narrowing of the esophagus, making it harder to swallow.
Lifestyles that increase the chances of developing difficulty swallowing include smoking and excessive drinking, which can lead to esophageal damage and inflammation, and a diet high in spicy or acidic foods, which can cause esophageal irritation and pain.
Additionally, aging and certain medications, such as sedatives and antihistamines, can also contribute to difficulty swallowing.
What herbs heal difficulty swallowing?
The medicinal herbs used to treat difficulty swallowing are often those with anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties, such as slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) and licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), which work to soothe and protect the mucous membranes of the esophagus and throat.
Licorice root's bioactive compound glycyrrhizin has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing, while slippery elm's mucilages provide a protective barrier against irritation.
Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) is another example of a herb used to treat difficulty swallowing, with its bioactive compounds including mucilages and flavonoids that exhibit anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, these herbs can help alleviate symptoms of difficulty swallowing and promote overall digestive health.
What preparations treat difficulty swallowing?
The herbal preparations used to treat difficulty swallowing are a blend of teas, infusions, and tinctures that help to soothe and relax the muscles involved in swallowing, including those that make up the esophagus and the throat.
Infusions made with certain plant extracts have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and ease discomfort, making it easier to swallow food and liquids.
Tinctures and syrups prepared from specific plants have a calming effect on the nervous system, which helps to reduce stress and anxiety that can exacerbate swallowing difficulties.
Additionally, herbal decoctions and infusions rich in mucilages help to coat and protect the mucous membranes, further aiding in the healing and recovery process.
The articles in the following links discuss in detail the best herbal preparation used to treat difficulty swallowing.