10 best herbal teas for difficulty swallowing

Herbal teas, such as chamomile and slippery elm, bring proven relief to individuals struggling with difficulty swallowing.

Chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties soothe the throat, reducing irritation. Slippery elm, rich in mucilage, creates a protective coating inside the mouth and esophagus, making swallowing easier.

Embracing these herbal teas as part of a daily routine brings comfort and promotes improved swallowing functionality.

1. Chamomile

Chamomile tea aids difficulty swallowing due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling in the throat.

This herbal tea's antispasmodic qualities alleviate muscle spasms, promoting relaxation in the affected area. Moreover, chamomile's soothing effects on mucous membranes create a lubricating barrier that makes swallowing easier. Its mild sedative nature also calms nerves, reducing anxiety that often exacerbates swallowing issues.

Ultimately, drinking chamomile tea provides comprehensive relief for difficulty swallowing through these multifaceted mechanisms.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Flowers: Contain anti-spasmodic properties that relax throat muscles, easing difficulty swallowing.
• Leaves: Rich in soothing mucilage, leaves help coat and lubricate the throat, reducing discomfort.
• Seeds: Packed with calming compounds, seeds provide relief for inflamed throat tissues, alleviating difficulty swallowing.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with difficulty swallowing.

• Bisabolol: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the throat, making swallowing easier.
• Chamazulene: Has antispasmodic properties that can help relax the muscles in the throat, alleviating difficulty swallowing.
• Apigenin: Exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect and soothe the throat lining.
• Matricin: Undergoes conversion to chamazulene, enhancing its anti-inflammatory effects and aiding in reducing throat inflammation.
• Flavonoids: Possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, protecting throat tissues and reducing swallowing discomfort.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for difficulty swallowing.

1. Gather 1 teabag of chamomile tea and 8 ounces of warm water.
2. Heat water to 170-180°F, then pour over teabag in a cup.
3. Steep teabag for 5-7 minutes to allow antioxidants to release.
4. Remove teabag and let tea cool down to a comfortable temperature for swallowing.
5. Sip tea slowly, enjoying its soothing effects on the throat.

2. Lavender

Lavender tea aids difficulty swallowing due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling in the throat.

This herbal tea's soothing effects relax throat muscles, making swallowing easier. Additionally, lavender tea's antispasmodic qualities alleviate muscle spasms that can cause discomfort when swallowing. Furthermore, lavender tea's ability to stimulate saliva production facilitates the swallowing process.

Lastly, its calming aroma has a psychological impact, reducing anxiety that often exacerbates swallowing difficulties.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in lavender tea that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Flowers: Contain calming properties that help relax throat muscles, easing discomfort when swallowing.
• Leaves: Rich in soothing compounds that reduce inflammation, alleviating irritation in the throat.
• Buds: High in antispasmodic properties that help relieve muscle spasms, making swallowing easier.
• Stems: Contain mild astringent qualities that can help tighten throat tissues, reducing discomfort while swallowing.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lavender tea that aid with difficulty swallowing.

• Eucalyptol: Stimulates relaxation of the smooth muscles in the throat, helping to ease difficulty swallowing.
• Linalool: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation in the throat, alleviating discomfort during swallowing.
• Camphor: Has expectorant qualities that help clear phlegm and mucus from the throat, making swallowing easier.
• Cineole: Increases the production of saliva, promoting lubrication in the mouth and throat, and easing the process of swallowing.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lavender tea for difficulty swallowing.

1. Inhale lavender essential oil for 30 seconds to stimulate saliva production.
2. Boil 1 cup of water and add 1 teaspoon of dried lavender flowers, letting it steep for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove lavender fragments.
4. Add honey to taste for added smoothness, if desired.
5. Sip the tea slowly, taking pauses to swallow saliva between sips.

3. Peppermint

Peppermint tea provides relief for difficulty swallowing due to its natural properties.

This herbal tea contains menthol, a compound known to soothe irritation and inflammation in the throat. By acting as a muscle relaxant, menthol reduces tension in the muscles surrounding the esophagus, allowing for easier swallowing. Furthermore, peppermint oil, found in peppermint tea, has antibacterial and antiviral qualities that can help eliminate potential infections causing swallowing issues.

Lastly, the warm temperature of the tea increases blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing and further alleviating discomfort.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in peppermint tea that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Leaves: Contain menthol, a chemical that relaxes the muscles of the throat, making swallowing easier.
• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants and volatile oils that soothe inflammation, reducing irritation in the throat.
• Stems: Contain tannins that have astringent properties, helping to tighten and heal the tissues in the throat.
• Buds: High in rosmarinic acid, an anti-inflammatory compound that reduces swelling in the throat, making swallowing less painful.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tea that aid with difficulty swallowing.

• Menthol: Provides a cooling and analgesic effect, helping to relax the muscles of the esophagus and alleviating pain associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Rocesol: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation in the esophagus and throat, thereby easing the discomfort of swallowing.
• Flavonoids: Act as antioxidants, protecting the tissues of the esophagus from damage and promoting faster recovery from injury or irritation.
• Tannins: Exhibit astringent properties, helping to tighten and soothe irritated mucous membranes in the throat and esophagus, thus reducing the discomfort of swallowing.
• Rosmarinic acid: Demonstrates antispasmodic effects, relieving muscle spasms in the esophagus and throat, which can help improve the ease of swallowing.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint tea for difficulty swallowing.

1. Measure one teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves or one peppermint tea bag.
2. Place the peppermint leaves or tea bag in a cup or teapot.
3. Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over the peppermint leaves or tea bag.
4. Steep the peppermint tea for 5-10 minutes, then remove the leaves or tea bag.
5. Sip the peppermint tea slowly, allowing it to soothe your throat.

4. Marshmallow

Marshmallow tea, derived from the marshmallow plant, contains mucilage, a substance known for its soothing and lubricating properties.

This mucilage coats the throat and mouth, creating a protective film that eases the discomfort of difficulty swallowing. Moreover, it hydrates the tissues, reducing inflammation and irritation. By softening the texture of food and drink, marshmallow tea facilitates the swallowing process, making it less strenuous.

Marshmallow tea's ability to calm muscles relaxes throat muscles, promoting smooth swallowing.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in marshmallow tea that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Roots: Contain soothing properties that help reduce inflammation in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants, helping to reduce irritation and promote healing in the esophagus.
• Flowers: Have calming effects on the throat muscles, alleviating spasms and facilitating swallowing.
• Bark: Known for its mucilaginous qualities, forming a protective layer in the throat and reducing discomfort.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in marshmallow tea that aid with difficulty swallowing.

• Mucilage: This gel-like substance coats the throat and mouth, providing a soothing and lubricating effect that helps reduce difficulty swallowing.
• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates form a protective layer on mucous membranes, reducing irritation and easing the swallowing process.
• Flavonoids: These antioxidant compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the throat, alleviating discomfort and difficulty swallowing.
• Pectin: A soluble fiber that forms a gel in the digestive tract, pectin provides a demulcent effect, soothing and protecting irritated tissues in the throat.
• Ascorbic Acid: Also known as Vitamin C, ascorbic acid supports collagen production, promoting the health and integrity of mucous membranes, including those in the throat.
• Tannins: These astringent compounds can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues, making swallowing easier.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow tea for difficulty swallowing.

1. In a pot, combine 1 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of marshmallow root; let it simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Strain the tea to remove the marshmallow root solids.
3. Add honey to taste, stir well until fully dissolved.
4. Wait for the tea to cool down to a drinkable temperature.
5. Consume 1 cup of marshmallow tea, up to 3 times a day, to soothe throat and ease swallowing.

5. Slippery Elm

Slippery elm tea provides relief for difficulty swallowing due to its mucilage content, a substance that becomes a slick gel when mixed with water.

This gel-like substance forms a protective film along the mouth, throat, and stomach, reducing irritation and inflammation. The soothing effect of this film eases the discomfort that often accompanies swallowing difficulties. Furthermore, the tea's viscous nature helps moisten and lubricate the mucous membranes, making the swallowing process smoother and less painful.

As a result, slippery elm tea brings instant and long-lasting relief to those experiencing difficulty swallowing.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in slippery elm tea that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Bark: Contains mucilage that coats the mouth and throat, helping to alleviate difficulty swallowing.
• Leaves: Rich in mucilage, providing a soothing effect on irritated mucous membranes in the throat.
• Inner Bark: High in antioxidants, reduces inflammation in the throat, making swallowing easier.
• Seeds: Contain healthy oils and mucilage, forming a protective film in the throat, promoting ease of swallowing.
• Buds: Packed with mucilaginous compounds, providing a moisturizing and calming effect in cases of swallowing difficulty.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in slippery elm tea that aid with difficulty swallowing.

• Mucilage: Forms a soothing film over the mucous membranes, providing relief from irritation and easing swallowing.
• Tannins: Possess astringent properties that can help reduce inflammation and soreness, making swallowing less painful.
• Starch: Adds bulk to the tea, helping to lubricate and coat the throat, facilitating smoother swallowing.
• Gallic acid: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to alleviate pain and irritation in the throat.
• Kaempferol: Demonstrates antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties, contributing to overall throat soothing and comfort.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm tea for difficulty swallowing.

1. Measure - Pour 1 cup of cold water into a pot.
2. Cut - Slice 1 teaspoon of slippery elm bark into small pieces.
3. Boil - Bring the water to a boil, then add the bark and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Strain - Remove the pot from heat, and strain the tea into a cup.
5. Serve - Drink the tea while warm, up to 3 times a day.

6. Licorice

Licorice tea provides relief for difficulty swallowing due to its demulcent properties, meaning it forms a soothing film over mucous membranes.

This film reduces irritation and inflammation in the throat, making swallowing easier. Additionally, licorice tea's active compounds, such as glycyrrhizin, stimulate the production of mucus, which lubricates the throat and eases the process of swallowing. Moreover, this herbal tea's anti-inflammatory and expectorant qualities help clear excess mucus, phlegm, and other irritants from the respiratory tract.

Consequently, drinking licorice tea alleviates the discomfort associated with difficulty swallowing and promotes a healthier throat overall.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in licorice tea that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Roots: The roots of the licorice tea plant contain compounds that may soothe inflammation in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Leaves: The leaves of the licorice tea plant are rich in antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and ease difficulty swallowing.
• Seeds: Licorice seeds contain active compounds that can help lubricate and soothe the throat, making swallowing easier.
• Bark: The bark of the licorice tea plant contains valuable compounds that can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat, providing relief from difficulty swallowing.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice tea that aid with difficulty swallowing.

• Glycyrrhizin: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in the throat, making swallowing easier.
• Liquiritin: Acts as an expectorant, helping to clear phlegm and mucus from the throat, thus alleviating difficulty swallowing.
• Liquiritigenin: Exhibits antispasmodic effects, which can help relax the muscles in the throat and reduce spasms, making swallowing less painful.
• Isoliquiritigenin: Known for its soothing properties, this compound can help coat the throat and provide relief from irritation, thus reducing difficulty swallowing.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice tea for difficulty swallowing.

1. Measure 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds and 1 teaspoon of dried licorice root.
2. Combine ingredients in a tea infuser and place in a 12-ounce mug.
3. Heat water to boiling point, then pour over infuser in mug.
4. Steep tea for 10 minutes to allow ingredients to release compounds.
5. Remove infuser and drink tea while warm, up to three times a day.

7. Ginger

Ginger tea's value in alleviating difficulty swallowing stems from its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling in the throat.

This soothing effect extends to the mucous membranes lining the esophagus, making swallowing easier. Furthermore, ginger contains natural pain-relieving compounds that alleviate discomfort, while its antioxidant characteristics help strengthen the immune system, promoting overall well-being. Additionally, ginger's natural antibacterial properties may combat infections that can worsen swallowing issues.

Ultimately, consuming ginger tea brings prompt relief and healing to irritated or inflamed tissues, facilitating smoother swallowing.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Rhizomes: These horizontal stem sections contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the mucous membranes, potentially reducing difficulty swallowing.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants, ginger leaves promote a healthy inflammatory response, possibly alleviating discomfort in the throat.
• Buds: Packed with essential oils, ginger buds offer potent aromatic qualities that can help relax throat muscles, potentially easing the swallowing process.
• Roots: High in gingerols, ginger roots have natural pain-relieving properties, which can reduce throat irritation and ease swallowing.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with difficulty swallowing.

• Gingerols: Gingerols, the main active compounds in ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in the throat, making swallowing easier.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, a type of phenolic compound in ginger, have been shown to inhibit prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis, reducing inflammation and pain, thereby alleviating difficulty swallowing.
• Paradols: Paradols, a breakdown product of gingerols, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the mucosal lining of the throat and ease difficulty swallowing.
• Gingerdiols: Gingerdiols, another breakdown product of gingerols, have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which can help relax the throat muscles, reducing difficulty swallowing.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for difficulty swallowing.

1. Peel and chop 1-2 inches of fresh ginger into small slices, then place them in a pot.
2. Add 4 cups of water to the pot and bring it to a boil on high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a mug, add honey or lemon to taste, then let it cool slightly.
5. Sip the tea slowly, allowing it to soothe your throat as needed.

8. Turmeric

Turmeric tea provides relief for difficulty swallowing due to its active ingredient, curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

This compound reduces inflammation in the esophagus, making swallowing easier. Moreover, curcumin's antioxidant qualities protect the lining of the esophagus, preventing further damage. Turmeric tea also soothes irritation in the throat, alleviating discomfort during swallowing.

Furthermore, it promotes mucous membrane production, creating a lubricating effect that facilitates the movement of food or liquid through the throat.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in turmeric tea that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Rhizomes: Contain curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce irritation in the throat and ease swallowing.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants that can help soothe irritated tissues, promoting comfort when swallowing.
• Flowers: Contain essential oils with calming and anti-inflammatory effects, providing relief for difficulty swallowing.
• Seeds: High in mucilage, a substance that forms a soothing gel-like coating in the throat, facilitating swallowing.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in turmeric tea that aid with difficulty swallowing.

• Bisdemethoxycurcumin: Acts as an antispasmodic, reducing muscle spasms that cause swallowing problems.
• Curdione: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation along the swallowing pathway.
• Ar-turmerone: Helps in relaxation of the esophageal muscles, facilitating swallowing.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric tea for difficulty swallowing.

1. Boil 4 cups of water in a saucepan for 5 minutes.
2. Stir in 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a teapot or jar.
4. Add honey or lemon to taste, optional.
5. Serve the tea warm, drink it slowly for easy swallowing.

9. Valerian

Valerian tea provides relief for difficulty swallowing due to its natural muscle relaxant properties, which reduce tension in the throat.

This herbal tea contains active compounds that interact with neurotransmitters in the brain, promoting relaxation and decreasing anxiety that may exacerbate swallowing problems. Moreover, valerian tea stimulates saliva production, easing the swallowing process. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory effects alleviate any potential inflammation in the throat, further facilitating swallowing.

Ultimately, the soothing warmth of valerian tea provides comfort and relief for individuals experiencing difficulty swallowing.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in valerian tea that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Roots: Contain active compounds that help relax muscles, including those in the throat, making swallowing easier.
• Rhyzomes: Rich in antispasmodic properties that reduce muscle spasms, alleviating difficulty in swallowing.
• Leaves: Known for their calming effects, leaves can help reduce anxiety and tension, making the swallowing reflex more efficient.
• Flowers: Contain volatile oils with anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe irritated throat tissues and ease swallowing.
• Seeds: Packed with antioxidants, seeds aid in maintaining overall health, contributing to a stronger swallowing mechanism.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in valerian tea that aid with difficulty swallowing.

• Valerenic acid: Reduces anxiety and muscle spasms, helping to relax the muscles involved in swallowing.
• Valepotriates: Exhibit anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, helping to alleviate irritation and tension in the throat.
• GABA: Acts as a neurotransmitter to inhibit nerve transmission, reducing excessive nerve activity that can contribute to swallowing difficulties.
• Flavanoids: Possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in protecting and soothing irritated throat tissues.
• Essential oils: Contribute to the calming effect of valerian tea, potentially reducing anxiety and tension that can exacerbate swallowing difficulties.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian tea for difficulty swallowing.

1. In a teapot, add 1 tablespoon of dried valerian root to 8 ounces of boiling water.
2. Steep the tea for 10-15 minutes, covered, to extract the medicinal compounds.
3. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the used valerian root.
4. Optionally, add honey or lemon to improve taste, but avoid milk or other dairy products.
5. Sip the tea slowly, allowing it to soothe your throat and help with difficulty swallowing.

10. Passionflower

Passionflower tea aids difficulty swallowing due to its antispasmodic properties, which reduce muscle spasms in the esophagus.

This herbal tea contains flavonoids, such as chrysin and benzoflavone, that possess anti-inflammatory qualities, helping to alleviate irritation in the throat. Furthermore, passionflower tea's soothing effects on the nervous system can help reduce anxiety often associated with swallowing difficulties.

Additionally, this tea's mild sedative nature can help relax the muscles involved in swallowing, facilitating the process.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in passionflower tea that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Leaves: Contain compounds that help relax smooth muscles, including those in the esophagus, making swallowing easier.
• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, helping soothe irritation in the throat and easing swallowing.
• Stems: Contain alkaloids that help reduce spasms and relax muscles, alleviating difficulty swallowing.
• Buds: High in flavonoids, providing anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, beneficial for aiding swallowing.
• Seeds: Packed with essential oils and fatty acids, helping lubricate and ease the passage of food during swallowing.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in passionflower tea that aid with difficulty swallowing.

• Flavonoids: These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties that help relax smooth muscles of the esophagus, easing difficulty swallowing.
• Alkaloids: Harman alkaloids, such as harmine and harmaline, found in passionflower, possess antispasmodic properties that help reduce muscle spasms and difficulty swallowing.
• Maltol: As a natural chemical compound in passionflower, maltol can help decrease inflammation in the esophagus, alleviating discomfort and difficulty swallowing.
• Chrysin: A flavonoid present in passionflower, chrysin exhibits antispasmodic and analgesic properties, which help alleviate pain and muscle spasms responsible for swallowing difficulties.
• Benzoflavone: A type of flavonoid found in passionflower, benzoflavone contributes to the plant's overall anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, aiding in difficulty swallowing.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic passionflower tea for difficulty swallowing.

1. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried passionflower leaves, placing them in a tea infuser or teapot.
2. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the passionflower leaves, ensuring they are fully submerged.
3. Allow the tea to steep for 10 minutes, releasing the passionflower's soothing properties.
4. Remove the tea infuser or strain the tea, discarding the spent passionflower leaves.
5. Drink the passionflower tea while warm, promoting relaxation and easing difficulty swallowing.

What is difficulty swallowing and how can it affect your life?

Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, is the persistent challenge of moving food or liquids from the mouth to the stomach.

This condition impacts people's lives in various negative ways, such as by causing malnutrition and dehydration due to inadequate food and fluid intake. Dysphagia can also lead to aspiration pneumonia, a serious lung infection, if food or drink enters the airways.

As a result, individuals with difficulty swallowing often experience a lower quality of life, social isolation, and mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

What other natural remedies help with difficulty swallowing?

Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, can have various causes and can be a serious condition.

However, there are several natural remedies that have proven effective in alleviating this issue. First, maintaining good hydration is crucial, as dehydration can thicken saliva and make swallowing difficult. Second, altering the texture and temperature of food can make it easier to swallow.

For instance, soft, moist, and warm foods are typically easier to swallow than dry, hard, or cold foods. Third, practicing swallowing exercises, such as the Mendelsohn maneuver or the Shaker exercise, can strengthen the muscles involved in swallowing and improve overall swallowing function. Lastly, keeping a healthy weight and maintaining good posture, especially during meals, can reduce the likelihood of experiencing difficulty swallowing.

Consulting a healthcare professional is advised for proper evaluation and treatment of dysphagia.