10 best herbal teas for inflamed mouth

Several herbal teas effectively soothe an inflamed mouth.

Chamomile tea, known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, provides instant relief. Its calming effect on irritated mouth tissues reduces inflammation.

Another excellent option is licorice root tea, which has potent anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting qualities, aiding in healing and discomfort reduction. Lastly, sage tea's antioxidant and astringent properties provide significant relief and combat the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

These three herbal teas offer proven, reliable benefits for those suffering from an inflamed mouth.

1. Chamomile

Chamomile tea aids in reducing inflammation in the mouth due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties, derived from the presence of the chemical compound called chamazulene.

This compound, found in chamomile flowers, inhibits the production of inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, leading to decreased swelling and redness. The tea's soothing warmth increases blood flow to the affected area, enhancing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients necessary for tissue repair. Furthermore, chamomile's antimicrobial attributes, attributed to the presence of the flavonoid apigenin, combat harmful bacteria, thereby preventing secondary infections and promoting overall mouth health.

Regular consumption of chamomile tea, as part of a well-balanced oral hygiene regimen, can help alleviate discomfort and foster rapid recovery from oral inflammation.

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

• Flowers: Contain inflammation-reducing flavonoids and essential oils.
• Leaves: Have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe mouth inflammation.
• Seeds: Rich in anti-inflammatory and analgesic compounds, providing relief from mouth pain.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with inflamed mouth.

• Alpha-Bisabolol: A powerful anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce inflammation and redness in the mouth.
• Apigenin: A flavonoid with potent anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties that aid in soothing inflamed mouth tissues.
• Chamazulene: A potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound that helps alleviate pain and inflammation.
• Matricin: A compound that gets converted to Chamazulene during steam distillation, providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce redness and irritation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for inflamed mouth.

1. Boil 1 cup of water, then add 1 tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers.
2. Steep the chamomile in the hot water for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove the chamomile flowers.
4. Let the tea cool down to a warm temperature.
5. Sip the chamomile tea slowly, swishing it around your mouth before swallowing.

2. Calendula

Calendula tea contains anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of flavonoids, which directly counteract inflammation in the mouth.

The antiseptic qualities of calendula tea, resulting from its composition of terpenoids, help eliminate harmful bacteria causing inflammation. Furthermore, the tea's soothing effect on mucous membranes creates an unfavorable environment for the proliferation of inflammatory agents. Moreover, calendula tea's demulcent nature forms a protective layer over the inflamed areas, preventing further irritation.

Lastly, the astringent properties of calendula in the tea tighten injured tissues, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in calendula tea that help with inflamed mouth.

• Flowers: Contain high levels of antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that aid in soothing inflamed mouths.
• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and volatile oils, leaves help reduce redness and irritation in the mouth.
• Buds: Packed with therapeutic compounds, buds can help alleviate pain and promote healing in inflamed mouth tissue.
• Stems: Contain calendulosides, which have anti-inflammatory effects, making them useful for treating inflamed mouths.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in calendula tea that aid with inflamed mouth.

• Flavonoids: These antioxidants protect gum tissues by decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Triterpenes: Their anti-inflammatory properties help soothe oral inflammation and promote wound healing.
• Polysaccharides: They stimulate the immune system, aiding in the prevention of infections in inflamed mouth tissues.
• Carotenoids: Acting as antioxidants, they help protect gums from damage caused by free radicals and reduce inflammation.
• Volatile oils: Their antimicrobial properties aid in preventing infections and reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth.
• Saponins: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating effects, beneficial for treating inflamed mouth tissues.
• Glycosides: They possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, providing relief from pain and inflammation in the mouth.
• Sterols: Sterols exhibit anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, aiding in reducing inflammation in the mouth.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic calendula tea for inflamed mouth.

1. Gather 1-2 tablespoons of dried calendula flowers and place them in a tea infuser or a piece of cheesecloth.
2. Heat 1 cup of water to boiling, then pour it over the calendula flowers.
3. Allow the tea to steep for 10-15 minutes to extract the medicinal properties.
4. Remove the infuser or cheesecloth, and let the tea cool to a warm temperature.
5. Rinse your mouth with the calendula tea, gently swishing it around the inflamed areas for several minutes.

3. Licorice

Licorice tea aids inflamed mouths due to its active ingredient, glycyrrhizin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

This compound inhibits the enzyme responsible for prostaglandin production, reducing inflammation. Furthermore, glycyrrhizin exhibits strong antibacterial qualities, combating the bacteria contributing to inflammation. Additionally, licorice tea's demulcent effect creates a soothing barrier over irritated mouth tissue, providing relief.

Lastly, the astringent properties of licorice tea help constrict blood vessels, mitigating swelling and inflammation.

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

• Roots: Rich in glycyrrhizin, known to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated mouth tissue.
• Leaves: Contain flavonoids and volatile oils, have anti-inflammatory properties, and can help relieve pain in the mouth.
• Flowers: High in antioxidants, help reduce inflammation, and promote healing of mouth irritations.
• Seeds: Packed with essential oils, can help alleviate pain and have anti-inflammatory effects on mouth tissue.
• Bark: Contains anti-inflammatory compounds, helpful in treating inflamed mouth and gum tissue.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice tea that aid with inflamed mouth.

• Glycyrrhizin: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the mouth.
• Flavonoids: Known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to soothe inflamed mouth tissue.
• Saponins: They demonstrate anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties, aiding in the healing of inflamed mouth.
• Chalcones: Exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate inflammation and prevent infection.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice tea for inflamed mouth.

1. In a pot, boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of dried licorice root, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the solids.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey for added anti-inflammatory benefits, if desired.
5. Sip the tea slowly, allowing it to soothe your inflamed mouth.

4. Marshmallow

Marshmallow tea provides relief for inflamed mouths due to its demulcent properties, which refer to its ability to form a soothing film over mucous membranes.

This film reduces friction and irritation, promoting healing. The main active component in marshmallow tea, mucilage, contains polysaccharides that have anti-inflammatory effects, further alleviating inflammation. Marshmallow tea's antioxidant properties help protect the mouth's tissues from damage caused by free radicals, supporting overall oral health.

Additionally, marshmallow tea's antibacterial properties inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, preventing infections and additional inflammation.

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

• Flowers: Contain anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflamed mouth tissue.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and phenolic acids, promoting oral health and reducing inflammation.
• Bark: Has tannins that can alleviate mouth pain and reduce inflammation.
• Buds: High in essential oils and resins, known for their potent anti-inflammatory effects.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in marshmallow tea that aid with inflamed mouth.

• Mucilage: This constituent forms a soothing film over inflamed tissues, reducing pain and promoting healing.
• Flavonoids: These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and protect tissues from damage.
• Phenolic acids: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, these acids help alleviate pain and reduce swelling.
• Polysaccharides: These compounds help to lubricate and coat the mouth, providing relief from irritation and inflammation.
• Ascorbic acid: This vitamin supports collagen production, essential for tissue repair, and boosts the immune system to combat inflammation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow tea for inflamed mouth.

1. Combine 1 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of dried marshmallow root in a saucepan, bringing the mixture to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to extract the medicinal properties.
3. Strain the tea to remove solid particles, then let it cool down to a drinkable temperature.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey for added anti-inflammatory benefits and improved taste.
5. Sip the marshmallow tea slowly, allowing it to coat your entire mouth and soothe inflammation.

5. Slippery Elm

Slippery elm tea helps with inflamed mouth due to its natural anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties.

The inner bark of the slippery elm tree contains mucilage, a substance that forms a slick gel when mixed with water. This gel coats the mouth, forming a protective barrier over irritated tissues.

It soothes inflammation and reduces pain by decreasing friction and irritation. Furthermore, it promotes the healing process by increasing blood flow to the affected area.

Slippery elm's astringent qualities also help control excess secretions that can worsen mouth inflammation.

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

• Bark: The bark of the slippery elm tree contains mucilage, a substance that becomes a slick gel when mixed with water. This gel coats and soothes inflamed mouth tissue.
• Leaves: Slippery elm leaves also contain mucilage. Used in tea, they can help relieve inflammation and irritation in the mouth.
• Inner Bark: The inner bark of the slippery elm tree is rich in mucilage, making it an effective component in teas that soothe and protect inflamed oral tissue.
• Roots: Although not as potent as the bark and leaves, the roots of the slippery elm plant do contain some mucilage. As a result, they can be used in tea to soothe an inflamed mouth.
• Seeds: Slippery elm seeds contain small amounts of mucilage, which allows them to provide some relief to inflamed mouth tissue when used in medicinal teas. However, they are not as effective as the bark, leaves, or inner bark.

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

• Tannins: Possess astringent properties that help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated mouth tissue.
• Mucilage: Forms a protective film over mouth ulcers, providing relief from pain and promoting healing.
• Flavonoids: Exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
• Gallic acid: Displays antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in the prevention of infections and the alleviation of inflammation.
• Kaempferol: Offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, helping to decrease inflammation and protect cells from oxidative stress.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm tea for inflamed mouth.

1. Obtain 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
2. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of dried slippery elm bark and reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Let the mixture steep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea to remove bark particles.
5. Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day, to soothe an inflamed mouth.

6. Echinacea

Echinacea tea benefits inflamed mouths due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties, derived from the echinacea plant's active compounds.

These compounds, such as alkamides and caffeic acid, inhibit the production of chemicals causing inflammation, thereby reducing redness and swelling. Additionally, echinacea possesses antibacterial qualities, neutralizing harmful bacteria that can exacerbate inflammation and lead to infection. Furthermore, its immune-boosting abilities enhance the body's natural defenses, promoting faster healing and tissue regeneration.

Lastly, echinacea tea's soothing warmth and astringent qualities provide additional relief by temporarily numbing the irritation and shrinking inflamed tissues.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in echinacea tea that help with inflamed mouth.

• Roots: Contain active compounds that demonstrate anti-inflammatory properties, helpful for reducing inflamed mouth tissue.
• Aerial parts: Rich in antioxidants and analgesic properties, providing relief for inflamed mouth and soothing pain.
• Flowers: Packed with flavonoids, addressing inflammation, reducing discomfort and promoting oral health.
• Buds: High in tannins, known for their astringent properties, aiding in reducing inflammation and providing symptomatic relief.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in echinacea tea that aid with inflamed mouth.

• Cichoric acid: Possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the mouth.
• Essential oils: Contain antimicrobial and analgesic properties that aid in fighting infections and soothing pain in the mouth.
• Polysaccharides: Stimulate the immune system, promoting faster healing and recovery of inflamed mouth tissues.
• Flavonoids: Offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the mouth.
• Vitamin C: Promotes collagen production, aiding in tissue repair and maintaining the integrity of mouth tissues.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic echinacea tea for inflamed mouth.

1. Measure - Pour 2 cups of water into a pot and add 2 tablespoons of dried echinacea flowers and leaves.
2. Heat - Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Strain - Remove the pot from heat and strain the liquid into a teacup, discarding the solid echinacea parts.
4. Sweeten - Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired, and stir until fully dissolved.
5. Sip - Enjoy the tea while warm, up to three times a day for inflamed mouth relief.

7. Goldenseal

Goldenseal tea aids in reducing inflammation in the mouth due to its natural anti-inflammatory properties, derived from the plant's active compounds like berberine.

These compounds inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory chemicals, thus alleviating pain and inflammation. Goldenseal tea also has antimicrobial properties that help eliminate harmful bacteria in the mouth, promoting oral health and preventing infections that can lead to inflammation. Furthermore, goldenseal tea's astringent qualities help tighten and heal damaged tissues, soothing irritated mouth membranes.

Regular consumption of goldenseal tea offers a holistic approach to managing oral inflammation, combining these beneficial properties in one natural remedy.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in goldenseal tea that help with inflamed mouth.

• Leaves: Goldenseal leaves contain berberine, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce mouth inflammation.
• Rhizomes: The rhizomes of goldenseal are rich in alkaloids, which possess antibacterial and antifungal qualities, making them effective in treating inflamed mouths.
• Roots: Goldenseal roots contain high levels of berberine, a powerful alkaloid known for its ability to soothe inflamed mouth tissues and promote healing.
• Flowers: Goldenseal flowers are a source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, supporting oral health by reducing inflammation in the mouth.
• Seeds: Goldenseal seeds contain essential oils and alkaloids that offer antimicrobial benefits, aiding in the relief of inflamed mouths.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in goldenseal tea that aid with inflamed mouth.

• Berberine: An alkaloid with potent anti-inflammatory properties, helping reduce mouth inflammation.
• Hydrastine: A bitter alkaloid that stimulates mucous membrane secretions, aiding in oral wound healing.
• Canadine: An isoquinoline alkaloid with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, helping alleviate mouth inflammation.
• L-borneol: A terpene with antiseptic and analgesic properties, providing relief from inflamed mouth discomfort.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal tea for inflamed mouth.

1. In a pot, combine 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of dried goldenseal root.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove the goldenseal root pieces.
4. Allow the tea to cool down until it reaches a drinkable temperature.
5. Sip the goldenseal tea slowly, swishing it around your mouth to soothe inflammation.

8. Turmeric

Turmeric tea provides relief for inflamed mouth due to its active ingredient, curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.

This compound inhibits the activity of inflammation-causing enzymes, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase, thereby reducing redness and swelling in the mouth. Moreover, curcumin's antioxidant abilities scavenge free radicals that contribute to tissue damage and worsen inflammation. Additionally, turmeric tea's antibacterial and antifungal properties protect the mouth from secondary infections that can exacerbate inflammation.

Lastly, turmeric tea's soothing warmth and added ingredients, like honey or lemon, can further alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

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

• Rhizomes: Contain curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce mouth inflammation.
• Roots: Rich in antioxidants and antibacterial properties, promoting oral health and soothing inflamed mouth tissue.
• Leaves: Packed with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities, helping to alleviate pain and reduce swelling in the mouth.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in turmeric tea that aid with inflamed mouth.

• Curcumin: Possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that reduce mouth inflammation by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory enzymes.
• Demethoxycurcumin: This compound also has anti-inflammatory effects, helping to soothe inflamed mouth tissue and alleviate pain.
• Bisdemethoxycurcumin: With anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it helps protect mouth tissue from damage caused by inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Turmerone: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, turmerone aids in reducing inflammation and combating harmful bacteria in the mouth.
• Ar-turmerone: This constituent has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, helping to control inflammation and maintain a healthy oral environment.
• α-Turmerone: With anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, α-turmerone reduces mouth inflammation, protects tissue from oxidative stress, and promotes healing.
• β-Turmerone: This compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to alleviate inflammation, protect mouth tissue, and support overall oral health.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric tea for inflamed mouth.

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 tea into a cup, then mix in 1 teaspoon of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice.
4. Allow the tea to cool down to a comfortable temperature.
5. Sip the turmeric tea slowly, swishing it around your mouth before swallowing.

9. Ginger

Ginger tea helps with inflamed mouth due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

Gingerol, a powerful compound in ginger, inhibits the production of inflammatory molecules, reducing redness and swelling. Its antibacterial properties also combat harmful oral bacteria, promoting a healthier mouth environment. Furthermore, ginger's natural soothing effect calms irritation, providing instant relief.

Additionally, ginger tea's warmth increases blood flow to the mouth, enhancing the healing process.

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

• Roots: Contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe inflamed mouth tissue.
• Rhizomes: Rich in gingerols that alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
• Leaves: Packed with antioxidants that promote healing and provide relief for inflamed mouth.
• Flowers: Have antimicrobial properties that help fight infections causing mouth inflammation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with inflamed mouth.

• Gingerols: Gingerols have strong anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the mouth.
• Shogaols: Shogaols are known to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which cause inflammation and pain.
• Paradols: Paradols have potent antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Zingibain: Zingibain is a proteolytic enzyme that helps break down proteins, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Gingerdiols: Gingerdiols have been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, reducing the risk of infection and inflammation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for inflamed mouth.

1. Peel and slice 1 inch of fresh ginger, then bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
2. Add sliced ginger to boiling water, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Remove saucepan from heat, stir in 2 teaspoons of honey, and let steep for 5 minutes.
4. Strain the ginger tea into a cup, discarding solids.
5. Sip the warm ginger tea, allowing it to swish around your mouth before swallowing.

10. Cloves

Cloves tea offers relief for an inflamed mouth due to eugenol, a potent anti-inflammatory compound it contains.

This compound works by inhibiting the release of prostaglandins, chemicals responsible for causing inflammation and pain. Moreover, cloves tea has antimicrobial properties that help eliminate harmful bacteria, reducing the risk of infection. As a result, the soothing warmth of the tea increases blood flow, promoting healing in the affected area.

Lastly, cloves tea's anesthetic effects provide instant pain relief, making it an effective remedy for an inflamed mouth.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in cloves tea that help with inflamed mouth.

• Leaves: Contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce inflammation in the mouth.
• Buds: Rich in eugenol, known for its analgesic and antibacterial properties, providing relief from mouth inflammation.
• Flowers: Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, helping to alleviate inflamed mouth conditions.
• Seeds: Contain essential oils that have potent antimicrobial effects, useful for fighting mouth inflammation.
• Bark: Has been used traditionally for its astringent properties, aiding in the healing process of inflamed mouth tissues.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in cloves tea that aid with inflamed mouth.

• Eugenol: This compound has strong anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and swelling in the mouth.
• Gallotannins: These polyphenolic compounds have astringent properties that can help relieve pain and inflammation in the mouth.
• Flavonoids: These antioxidant compounds protect the mouth from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
• Kaempferol: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the mouth and promote healing.
• Vitamin C: This essential nutrient supports oral health by promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cloves tea for inflamed mouth.

1. Heat 1 cup of water to boiling point, which takes approximately 3-5 minutes depending on your stove.
2. Add 2-3 cloves to the boiling water, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the cloves from the tea, then let it cool down to a drinkable temperature.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey for added anti-inflammatory properties and taste.
5. Sip the tea slowly, allowing it to coat your entire mouth and soothe inflamed areas.

What is inflamed mouth and how can it affect your life?

An inflamed mouth, also known as stomatitis, is a condition characterized by red, swollen, and painful gums or mouth tissue.

This inflammation results from bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, as well as allergic reactions or injuries. The inflammation causes discomfort, interferes with eating, speaking, and swallowing, and negatively impacts an individual's overall well-being. In severe cases, it can lead to malnutrition due to difficulties in consuming food.

Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial to mitigating the adverse effects of an inflamed mouth and ensuring a swift recovery.

What other natural remedies help with inflamed mouth?

One of the most common and effective natural remedies for an inflamed mouth is baking soda.

Baking soda has strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help reduce inflammation and fight off infection-causing bacteria. To use baking soda for mouth inflammation, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 cup of warm water and rinse your mouth with the solution several times a day. Another effective natural remedy is salt water.

Salt has natural disinfectant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe mouth inflammation and promote healing. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in 1/2 cup of warm water and rinse your mouth with the solution several times a day. Additionally, slippery elm, a herb that forms a protective coating on the mouth's mucous membranes, can provide relief from mouth inflammation.

Make a slippery elm paste by mixing powdered slippery elm bark with water and apply it directly to the affected area.