By Leen Randell

Updated: Nov 13, 2024

10 Best Herbal Teas For White Tongue

Herbal teas for white tongue are natural remedies that help alleviate symptoms and address the underlying causes of a white tongue, which can be caused by oral thrush, dehydration, or poor oral health.

The best herbal teas for white tongue include Echinacea purpurea, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Salvia officinalis, Cinchona officinalis, Taraxacum officinale, Althaea officinalis, Mentha x piperita, Melissa officinalis, Ginkgo biloba, and Zingiber officinale.

If left untreated, white tongue can lead to bad breath, difficulty swallowing, and a weakened immune system, negatively impacting one's confidence, social life, and overall well-being.

1. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea teas helps with white tongue because it has antimicrobial properties that combat the underlying fungal or bacterial infections causing the condition.

The plant's active compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives, have been shown to inhibit the growth of pathogens that can lead to white tongue.

Additionally, Echinacea's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce redness and swelling associated with the condition, promoting a healthier oral environment and a reduction in white tongue symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with white tongue.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and inflammation associated with white tongue.
• Polyphenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant properties that help protect against oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of white tongue.
• Alkylamides: These compounds have immunomodulatory effects that help boost the immune system's ability to fight off infections and other underlying causes of white tongue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Echinacea purpurea used to make teas for white tongue.

• Roots: They are the primary source of bioactive compounds and are considered more potent than other parts of the plant.
• Leaves: They contain a high concentration of flavonoids, which are believed to have antimicrobial properties that can help combat infections.
• Flowers: They have anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the affected area.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with white tongue because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.

The active compounds present in the tea, such as glycyrrhizin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida and other microorganisms that can cause oral infections. By reducing the presence of these pathogens, the tea helps to alleviate symptoms of thrush and other conditions that can cause a white tongue. This natural remedy promotes a healthy oral environment and supports overall well-being.

Regular consumption of Glycyrrhiza glabra tea may help to restore a pink and healthy tongue.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with white tongue.

• Glycyrrhizin: Helps with white tongue by reducing inflammation and soothing the mucous membranes, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with oral infections.
• Flavonoids: Contributes to the treatment of white tongue by exhibiting antioxidant properties, which help in protecting the mucous membranes from oxidative stress and promoting healing.
• Saponins: Assists in the management of white tongue by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, which help in reducing the growth of pathogenic microorganisms responsible for oral infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra used to make teas for white tongue.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used to make teas due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the tongue.
• Leaves: The leaves of the plant are used in teas for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm the tongue and reduce swelling.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used in teas for their antibacterial properties, which help to prevent infections that may cause white tongue.

3. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis teas helps with white tongue because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal tea's ability to fight off oral pathogens and reduce inflammation in the mouth can help alleviate the condition. Additionally, Salvia officinalis contains antioxidants that help protect the oral mucosa from oxidative stress, promoting a healthy oral environment.

By consuming Salvia officinalis tea regularly, individuals can help to restore the natural balance of their oral microbiome and reduce the appearance of a white tongue.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with white tongue.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and kill the bacteria that cause a white tongue, promoting a healthy oral environment.
• Salvianolic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that can contribute to the development of a white tongue.
• Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid compound has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help kill the bacteria that cause a white tongue and reduce inflammation in the oral cavity.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Salvia officinalis used to make teas for white tongue.

• Leaves: The leaves of Salvia officinalis are used to make teas for white tongue due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth.
• Flowers: Salvia officinalis flowers are used to make teas for white tongue because of their antimicrobial properties, which help combat oral infections and promote oral health.
• Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis are sometimes used to make teas for white tongue, although less commonly than leaves and flowers, as they also possess antibacterial properties that can aid in healing and reducing inflammation in the mouth.

4. Cinchona officinalis

Cinchona officinalis teas helps with white tongue because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The tea contains quinine, which has been shown to reduce bacteria and fungi that can cause an overgrowth of yeast in the mouth, leading to a white coating. Additionally, quinine helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes, promoting a healthy oral environment and potentially resolving the issue of a white tongue.

This natural remedy may also help to freshen breath and promote overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis teas that help with white tongue.

• Quinine: Helps reduce inflammation and fight off infections that can cause white tongue, making it an effective treatment for oral candidiasis.
• Cinchonine: Exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can help control the growth of bacteria and fungi that may cause white tongue, promoting a healthy oral environment.
• Quinidine: Possesses anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can aid in reducing inflammation, preventing infection, and promoting the healing of oral mucosa, potentially alleviating symptoms of white tongue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Cinchona officinalis used to make teas for white tongue.

• Leaves: Leaves are the primary part used to make teas for white tongue due to their high content of quinine and other alkaloids.
• Barks: Barks are used to make teas for white tongue, as they contain cinchonine and other compounds that help alleviate symptoms.
• Stems: Stems are also used to make teas for white tongue, although they contain slightly lower amounts of beneficial compounds compared to leaves and barks.

5. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale teas helps with white tongue because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and promote healing in the mouth.

The dandelion root in Taraxacum officinale tea is rich in antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties, which combat bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause inflammation and discoloration of the tongue.

Regular consumption of Taraxacum officinale tea may also help to eliminate toxins and promote a healthy oral environment, leading to a reduction in white tongue symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with white tongue.

• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the underlying infections that cause a white tongue.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol have anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, contributing to a white tongue.
• Saponins: Saponins have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, helping to eliminate pathogens that can cause a white tongue, while also soothing and protecting the mucous membranes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Taraxacum officinale used to make teas for white tongue.

• Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used to make teas for white tongue, as they are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the condition.
• Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used to make teas for white tongue, as they are thought to have antibacterial properties that can help combat the underlying infection.
• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to make teas for white tongue, as they are believed to have antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

6. Althaea officinalis

Althaea officinalis teas helps with white tongue because it contains anti-inflammatory properties and soothing compounds that calm irritated mucous membranes.

The mucilages present in the plant coat the tongue, reducing inflammation and providing relief from symptoms associated with a white tongue. As a result, the appearance of the white coating is reduced, and the overall health of the mouth is improved.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to promote oral health and alleviate discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis teas that help with white tongue.

• Mucilages: Mucilages in Althaea officinalis have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the mouth, leading to a decrease in white tongue symptoms.
• Gallic acid: Gallic acid in Althaea officinalis has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial overgrowth that may contribute to white tongue.
• Glucuronic acid: Glucuronic acid in Althaea officinalis has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with white tongue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Althaea officinalis used to make teas for white tongue.

• Roots: They are the primary part of Althaea officinalis used to make teas for white tongue due to their high mucilage content.
• Leaves: They are used to make teas for white tongue as they also contain mucilage and can provide similar soothing properties.
• Barks: They are sometimes used to make teas for white tongue due to their ability to add a mild, soothing effect to the tea.

7. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita teas helps with white tongue because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The menthol in peppermint tea has been shown to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause oral infections. Additionally, the menthol and menthone in peppermint tea help to reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, which can contribute to the appearance of a white tongue.

Regular consumption of peppermint tea may help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes, promoting a healthy oral environment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with white tongue.

• Menthol: Helps to reduce inflammation in the oral cavity, which may be a contributing factor to white tongue.
• Rosmarinic acid: Exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that may be responsible for white tongue.
• Limonene: Possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing the appearance of white tongue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Mentha x piperita used to make teas for white tongue.

• Leaves: The leaves are commonly used to make teas for white tongue due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the affected area.
• Roots: The roots of Mentha x piperita are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and combat infections associated with white tongue.
• Buds: The buds of the plant are used in teas for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and combat the underlying causes of white tongue.

8. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis teas helps with white tongue because it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce the bacteria and inflammation associated with the condition.

The tea's antifungal properties also aid in preventing the growth of fungus, which can contribute to the discoloration of the tongue. Additionally, Melissa officinalis contains antioxidants that help to soothe and calm the oral mucosa, promoting a healthy environment for the tongue and overall oral health.

This can lead to a reduction in the white coating on the tongue.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis teas that help with white tongue.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the underlying infections or imbalances that lead to white tongue.
• Luteolin: As a flavonoid, luteolin has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy oral mucosa.
• Geraniol: This terpene has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help control fungal or bacterial overgrowth that may contribute to white tongue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Melissa officinalis used to make teas for white tongue.

• Leaves: Known for their soothing and relaxing properties.
• Flowers: Used for their calming and antispasmodic effects.
• Roots: Possibly used for their earthy and slightly bitter flavor, although less common.

9. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba teas helps with white tongue because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The herbal remedy helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the mouth, promoting a healthy oral environment. Ginkgo biloba's antioxidant properties also help to combat free radicals that can cause oxidative stress, leading to a reduction in bacteria and yeast growth, which can contribute to a white tongue.

Regular consumption of Ginkgo biloba tea may help to restore a healthy, pink tongue and overall oral well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with white tongue.

• Flavonoids: They have antioxidant properties that help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy oral mucosa, potentially alleviating the symptoms of white tongue.
• Bilobalide: This terpene derivative has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat, contributing to a reduction in white tongue symptoms.
• Ginkgolides: These diterpene lactones have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling and irritation in the oral cavity, which may contribute to the appearance of a white tongue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Ginkgo biloba used to make teas for white tongue.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part for making teas due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to help alleviate symptoms of white tongue.
• Seeds: Ginkgo seeds are used in some teas as they contain a compound called bilobalide, which may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the oral mucosa, a common issue with white tongue.
• Buds: The buds of the Ginkgo biloba tree are sometimes used in teas due to their high content of antioxidants and flavonoids, which may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, a common concern with white tongue.

10. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale teas helps with white tongue because they possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can combat the underlying causes of a white tongue.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to reduce inflammation and kill off bacteria and fungi that can cause oral infections. This can lead to a reduction in symptoms, including the white coating on the tongue, allowing for a return to a healthy, normal appearance and function.

Regular consumption may promote overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with white tongue.

• 6-gingerol: This gingerol compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the mouth and tongue, potentially alleviating the symptoms of a white tongue.
• Gingerols and shogaols: These terpenoid compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat oral infections and promote a healthy oral microbiome, contributing to the resolution of white tongue.
• Gingerol and shogaol derivatives: These compounds have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the oral tissues from oxidative stress and promote healing, potentially helping to resolve the underlying causes of a white tongue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for white tongue.

• Stems: Stems are used because they contain a lower concentration of active compounds than rhizomes, but still provide some benefits for soothing the tongue and reducing inflammation.
• Leaves: Leaves are used because they are easier to cultivate and harvest than rhizomes, making them a more accessible option for making teas.