10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Jaw Clenching
Herbal tinctures have gained popularity as a natural remedy for jaw clenching, offering a holistic approach to managing bruxism and tension-related teeth grinding.
These tinctures typically contain calming herbs such as valerian root, passionflower, and chamomile, which are known for their soothing and muscle-relaxing properties. When applied topically or taken internally, these herbs can help reduce stress and anxiety, common triggers for jaw clenching. Many individuals find relief through consistent use, as the herbal compounds work to ease muscle tension in the jaw area.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal regimen to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Table of Contents
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a traditional herbal remedy often used in the form of tinctures to address various nervous system disorders.
Valerian tinctures are believed to have calming properties that may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing jaw clenching due to stress or tension. The active compounds in valerian, such as valerenic acid and isolvalerenic acid, may help regulate neurotransmitters like GABA, contributing to a sense of calm and muscle relaxation. While some studies suggest valerian may aid in reducing symptoms of bruxism, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness for jaw clenching specifically.
As with any herbal supplement, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if taking other medications or having underlying health conditions.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Glycyrrhiza glabra herbal tinctures are often used to alleviate symptoms associated with jaw clenching, such as tension and pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The active compounds in licorice root, including glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, may help reduce inflammation and relax the muscles around the jaw. When used as a tincture, it is typically taken orally in small doses to support overall oral health and reduce stress-related jaw tension.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using licorice tinctures, especially for prolonged periods, as excessive use can lead to side effects such as increased blood pressure.
3. Passiflora incarnata
Passiflora incarnata, commonly known as purple passionflower, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its calming effects on the nervous system.
When used in the form of a tincture, it may help alleviate symptoms of jaw clenching by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. The active compounds in passiflora, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, are believed to interact with the body's neurotransmitters to ease tension and muscle spasms. Some individuals report decreased jaw clenching after incorporating passiflora tinctures into their daily routine, especially when stress or anxiety are contributing factors.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this herb, particularly if you are on medication or have underlying health conditions.
4. Vitex agnus-castus
Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to support hormonal balance, which may indirectly help with jaw clenching by addressing underlying stress or hormonal fluctuations.
As a herbal tincture, it is often taken orally and may help regulate cortisol levels and reduce anxiety, both of which are common contributors to bruxism or jaw clenching. While there is limited scientific evidence specifically linking vitex to jaw clenching, some users report improved sleep and reduced tension, which can alleviate nighttime jaw clenching. It is typically recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially for those with hormonal imbalances or taking other medications.
Overall, vitex agnus-castus may be a complementary option for managing jaw clenching when used as part of a holistic approach to stress and hormonal health.
5. Piper methysticum
Piper methysticum, commonly known as kava, has been traditionally used for its calming and anxiolytic properties, making it a potential herbal remedy for jaw clenching, which is often linked to stress and anxiety.
Kava tinctures are typically prepared by soaking the root in alcohol, allowing the active compounds, such as kavalactones, to be extracted and concentrated. These tinctures may help reduce tension in the jaw muscles by promoting relaxation and reducing nervous system activity. However, it is important to use kava tinctures with caution, as they can have sedative effects and may interact with certain medications.
Always consult a healthcare professional before using kava tinctures, especially for long-term or therapeutic purposes.
6. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as coneflower, is traditionally used in herbal medicine for its immune-boosting properties, but recent research suggests it may also have potential benefits for managing jaw clenching.
Herbal tinctures made from Echinacea purpurea are often used to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with bruxism or tension headaches caused by jaw clenching. While there is limited clinical evidence specifically linking echinacea tinctures to jaw clenching relief, some practitioners recommend it as part of a holistic approach to stress management. These tinctures are typically taken orally and may help reduce overall bodily inflammation, which can indirectly ease jaw muscle tension.
As with any herbal remedy, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
7. Mentha piperita
Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is often used in herbal tinctures to address issues like jaw clenching due to its calming and muscle-relaxing properties.
The active compound menthol in peppermint tinctures helps to soothe the muscles of the jaw, reducing tension and alleviating the discomfort associated with bruxism or clenching. These tinctures can be applied topically to the jaw area or taken orally as a supplement to promote relaxation and ease muscle tightness. Many users report a noticeable reduction in jaw pain and improved sleep quality when using peppermint tinctures regularly.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
8. Scutellaria lateriflora
Scutellaria lateriflora, commonly known as blue skullcap, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its calming and sedative properties.
When prepared as a tincture, it may help alleviate symptoms of jaw clenching by promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which are common contributors to bruxism. The active compounds in blue skullcap, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, are believed to support nervous system regulation and muscle relaxation. While scientific research on its specific effects on jaw clenching is limited, many users report improved sleep and reduced tension when using blue skullcap tinctures.
As with any herbal supplement, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.
9. Crataegus oxyacantha
Crataegus oxyacantha, commonly known as hawthorn, is a traditional herbal plant that has been used for centuries in herbal medicine.
Its tinctures are believed to support cardiovascular health and may help alleviate symptoms related to stress and anxiety, which are often linked to jaw clenching. The active compounds in hawthorn, such as flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins, may help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation, potentially easing the habit of jaw clenching. While not a direct treatment for bruxism, hawthorn tinctures may be used as a complementary therapy to support overall stress management.
As with any herbal remedy, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially if taking other medications or suffering from underlying health conditions.
10. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, is a popular herb used in tinctures for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
Chamomile tinctures may help alleviate jaw clenching by reducing stress and muscle tension in the facial area. The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin, interact with neurotransmitters to promote relaxation and ease muscle spasms. When applied topically or taken orally, these tinctures can support natural relaxation of the jaw muscles.
However, individuals should consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if they have allergies or are on medication.