10 Best Herbal Teas For White Tongue

Herbal teas can be beneficial for addressing a white tongue, a condition often linked to oral health issues or infections.

Certain herbal infusions, such as sage, chamomile, and licorice root, possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the buildup of bacteria or fungi on the tongue's surface. These teas can soothe irritation and promote a healthier oral environment by gently cleansing the mouth. Regular consumption of these herbal teas may support overall oral hygiene and prevent recurring white tongue symptoms.

However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if the condition persists or worsens, as it could indicate a more serious underlying issue.

1. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a popular herb used in herbal teas to address various health issues, including oral health concerns like white tongue.

White tongue, characterized by a thick, white coating on the tongue, can be caused by factors such as poor oral hygiene, dehydration, or fungal infections like oral thrush. Peppermint tea contains menthol, which has soothing and antimicrobial properties that may help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial or fungal overgrowth. Drinking peppermint tea can also promote saliva production, which helps cleanse the mouth and prevent the buildup of bacteria.

However, while peppermint tea may offer some relief, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe cases of white tongue.

2. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

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

When brewed into a tea, licorice root can help alleviate symptoms associated with white tongue, a condition often linked to oral infections or inflammation. The herb contains glycyrrhizin, which may help reduce irritation and promote healing in the mouth. However, excessive consumption of licorice tea can lead to side effects such as high blood pressure due to its impact on sodium and potassium levels.

As a result, it is advisable to use licorice root tea in moderation and consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into a treatment regimen for white tongue.

3. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a popular herbal remedy often used in teas to support immune health.

While it is not a direct treatment for white tongue, some people use echinacea tea to reduce inflammation and promote oral health. The tea may help soothe mouth irritations and potentially alleviate symptoms associated with oral infections. However, it is important to note that white tongue can have various causes, including infections, dehydration, or oral candidiasis, and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Echinacea tea should be used as a complementary therapy rather than a standalone solution for persistent or severe cases of white tongue.

4. Salvia (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to address various health concerns, including oral issues like white tongue.

White tongue, characterized by a thick, white coating on the tongue, can result from poor oral hygiene, infections, or digestive imbalances, and sage tea is believed to help alleviate these symptoms. The tea contains compounds such as rosmarinic acid and flavonoids, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce bacterial overgrowth and soothe oral irritation. To prepare sage tea, steep a teaspoon of dried sage leaves in hot water for several minutes, then strain and cool before use.

While sage tea can be a beneficial complementary therapy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially for persistent or severe cases of white tongue.

5. Camellia (Camellia sinensis)

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green, black, and oolong teas are derived, is also used to make herbal teas that can help address issues like white tongue.

These teas are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce the buildup of bacteria and debris on the tongue. Drinking Camellia sinensis-based herbal teas can promote oral hygiene by stimulating saliva production, which helps cleanse the mouth. Regular consumption may improve the appearance of the tongue by reducing the whitish coating that often forms due to poor oral hygiene or bacterial overgrowth.

However, it is important to maintain good dental hygiene practices alongside herbal tea consumption for optimal oral health.

6. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a versatile herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

When brewed into a herbal tea, it may offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. While there is no direct scientific evidence linking stinging nettle tea specifically to the treatment of white tongue, its potential to support oral health through its high mineral content and mild astringent effects may be of interest. Some holistic practitioners suggest that nettle tea could help reduce oral inflammation and promote a healthier oral environment.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy, especially for conditions like white tongue, which can have multiple underlying causes.

7. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a fragrant herb often used in herbal teas for its aromatic and therapeutic properties.

Rosemary tea is believed to help alleviate symptoms of white tongue, a condition characterized by a white coating on the tongue, often caused by poor oral hygiene or fungal infections. The tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth. It is also thought to improve oral circulation and support the natural balance of bacteria in the mouth.

While rosemary tea can be a beneficial complementary remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe cases of white tongue.

8. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used to support hormonal balance and may be beneficial for individuals experiencing white tongue, a condition often linked to oral health or hormonal fluctuations.

This herb is believed to influence the pituitary gland, potentially helping to regulate estrogen levels, which can contribute to oral mucosal changes. While there is limited scientific research specifically on its effects for white tongue, some practitioners recommend it as part of a holistic approach to address underlying hormonal imbalances. Vitex agnus-castus herbal teas are typically prepared by steeping the dried berries in hot water, and they are often consumed in the morning to support overall wellness.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if symptoms persist or if there are underlying health conditions.

9. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is a herb often used in herbal teas to support oral health and address issues such as white tongue.

The essential oils in fennel, particularly anethol, have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce bacterial buildup on the tongue. Drinking fennel tea may help soothe irritation and promote a healthier oral environment by encouraging the removal of plaque and dead cells from the tongue's surface. It is often recommended as a natural remedy to alleviate symptoms associated with white tongue, though it should be used in conjunction with good oral hygiene practices.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using fennel tea, especially for individuals with allergies or existing medical conditions.

10. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, is not typically used as a primary herbal tea for white tongue, but its essential oil and extracts may offer some therapeutic benefits.

While white tongue is often a symptom of oral health issues such as poor hygiene, infections, or nutritional deficiencies, some herbal teas are believed to support oral hygiene and promote healing. Black pepper contains compounds like piperine that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help in reducing oral bacteria and soothing inflammation. However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence supporting the use of black pepper tea specifically for treating white tongue.

For effective treatment, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional and maintain good oral hygiene practices.