By Leen Randell
Updated: Nov 13, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Difficulty Chewing
Herbal teas for difficulty chewing are a natural remedy that helps alleviate the discomfort associated with chewing and swallowing.
These teas work by soothing inflammation, reducing pain, and improving digestion. The best herbal teas for difficulty chewing are Glycyrrhiza glabra, Zingiber officinale, Echinacea purpurea, Ginkgo biloba, Salvia officinalis, Rosmarinus officinalis, Achillea millefolium, Centella asiatica, Melissa officinalis, and Panax ginseng.
If left untreated, difficulty chewing can lead to malnutrition, social isolation, and decreased quality of life, making everyday activities like eating and interacting with others challenging.
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with difficulty chewing because it contains licorice root, which has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the muscles in the jaw and mouth.
The tea's flavonoids and saponins work to reduce swelling and relax tense muscles, making it easier to chew and swallow food. Additionally, licorice root has been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, which can contribute to difficulty chewing.
By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, Glycyrrhiza glabra teas may provide relief for individuals experiencing difficulty chewing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with difficulty chewing.
- Licorinic acid: It helps with difficulty chewing by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing in the oral cavity, thus alleviating pain and discomfort associated with chewing.
- Glycyrrhizin: It helps with difficulty chewing by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and pain in the jaw and mouth, making it easier to chew and swallow.
- Flavonoids: They help with difficulty chewing by exhibiting antioxidant properties, which help protect the oral mucosa from oxidative stress and damage, ultimately promoting oral health and comfort during chewing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra used to make teas for difficulty chewing.
- Roots: They are commonly used to make teas due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which helps to soothe and relax the muscles in the mouth and throat.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make teas that can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort in the mouth and throat.
- Leaves: The leaves of the plant are also used to make teas that can help to calm and soothe the digestive system and reduce discomfort while eating.
2. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale teas helps with difficulty chewing because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce swelling and discomfort in the jaw and mouth.
The tea's warming and soothing effects can also relax the facial muscles, making it easier to open the mouth and swallow. Additionally, Zingiber officinale contains compounds that may help to alleviate pain and stiffness, allowing individuals to chew and swallow more comfortably.
This makes it a popular choice for those experiencing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or other conditions that affect chewing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with difficulty chewing.
- Gingerols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling associated with conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can contribute to difficulty chewing.
- Shogaols: Shogaols have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the jaw and facial muscles, making it easier to chew food.
- Volatile oils: The analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of these volatile oils can help reduce pain and inflammation in the jaw and facial muscles, making it easier to chew and swallow food.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for difficulty chewing.
- Rhyzomes: The rhizomes are commonly used to make teas as they contain a high concentration of compounds that aid in digestion and relieve pain, making them beneficial for individuals experiencing difficulty chewing.
- Leaves: Zingiber officinale leaves are sometimes used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe mouth sores and promote healing of the oral cavity.
- Buds: The buds of Zingiber officinale are also used in some tea blends as they are believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth and throat.
3. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea teas helps with difficulty chewing because its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce swelling and pain in the mouth and gums, making it easier to eat and chew food.
The tea's immunomodulatory effects can also help boost the body's immune system, reducing the severity of conditions such as dry mouth and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders that may be contributing to difficulty chewing.
Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties can help soothe and calm irritated tissues, further alleviating discomfort and facilitating a smoother chewing experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with difficulty chewing.
- Iridoids: Help reduce inflammation and swelling in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew and swallow.
- Caffeic acid: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that may alleviate pain and discomfort in the jaw and mouth, contributing to easier chewing.
- Alkylphenols: Possess antimicrobial properties that can help prevent infections in the mouth, reducing swelling and pain associated with difficulty chewing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Echinacea purpurea used to make teas for difficulty chewing.
- Roots: They are used to make teas for difficulty chewing because they are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in reducing pain and inflammation in the mouth and jaw.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for difficulty chewing because they are thought to have antioxidant properties that can help soothe and calm irritated mouth tissues.
- Flowers: They are used to make teas for difficulty chewing because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that can help reduce inflammation and ease pain in the mouth and jaw.
4. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba teas helps with difficulty chewing because of its ability to improve blood circulation to the brain and the mouth.
This increased blood flow may stimulate the nerves responsible for chewing and swallowing, allowing for more efficient movement of the jaw and tongue. Additionally, ginkgo biloba's antioxidant properties may help protect the nerves and tissues involved in chewing, promoting overall health and function.
This can lead to easier and more comfortable eating.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with difficulty chewing.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help improve blood flow to the jaw and facial muscles, reducing discomfort and pain associated with difficulty chewing.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and inflammation in the jaw and facial muscles, making it easier to chew food.
- Ginkgolides: These sesquiterpenes have vasodilatory effects that increase blood flow to the affected areas, reducing pain and discomfort caused by difficulty chewing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Ginkgo biloba used to make teas for difficulty chewing.
- Leaves: They are commonly used due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds have been traditionally used to aid in digestion and relieve symptoms of difficulty chewing, possibly due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: Ginkgo biloba roots are sometimes used for their purported ability to promote digestive health and reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, which may help alleviate difficulty chewing.
5. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis teas helps with difficulty chewing because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the mouth and throat.
The antioxidants present in the tea reduce inflammation and irritation, making it easier to swallow and chew food. Additionally, Salvia officinalis contains compounds that have antimicrobial properties, helping to combat infections and promote healing in the oral cavity. This results in improved oral health and reduced discomfort while eating.
The tea's anti-inflammatory effects also alleviate jaw pain and stiffness associated with difficulty chewing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with difficulty chewing.
- Thujone: Helps with difficulty chewing by reducing inflammation and pain in the jaw and mouth, making it easier to chew and swallow food.
- Ursolic acid: Eases difficulty chewing by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, which helps to reduce swelling and pain in the mouth and jaw, improving chewing function.
- Rosmarinic acid: Assists with difficulty chewing by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thus reducing inflammation and pain associated with temporomandibular joint disorders and other conditions affecting chewing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Salvia officinalis used to make teas for difficulty chewing.
- Leaves: They are used due to their purported anti-inflammatory properties which may help alleviate gum inflammation and pain associated with difficulty chewing.
- Stems: They are utilized due to their high saponin content, which may aid in soothing and reducing inflammation in the mouth and gums.
- Buds: They are employed for their potential to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the mouth and gums, making them easier to chew and swallow.
6. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosmarinus officinalis teas helps with difficulty chewing because it contains a compound called carnosic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
This can help to reduce swelling and pain in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew and swallow food. Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties can help to soothe and calm the oral tissues, promoting a healthy environment for chewing and digestion.
This can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders or other conditions that affect the jaw and mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis teas that help with difficulty chewing.
- Carnosic acid: It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the jaw and mouth, making it easier to chew.
- Rosmarinic acid: It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the mouth and jaw from oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to ease of chewing.
- Cineole: It has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help numb the pain and reduce swelling in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew and swallow.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Rosmarinus officinalis used to make teas for difficulty chewing.
- Leaves: These are the most commonly used part, as they contain oils that help stimulate digestion and improve oral function.
- Flowers: The flowers can also be used to make teas, as they have antioxidant properties that may help alleviate inflammation and discomfort associated with chewing difficulties.
- Buds: Rosemary buds, being rich in antioxidants and essential oils, can be used to make teas that may aid in improving oral health and reducing discomfort when chewing.
7. Achillea millefolium
Achillea millefolium teas helps with difficulty chewing because its anti-inflammatory properties and flavonoids can help reduce swelling and ease pain in the jaw and mouth.
The tea's antioxidant and antimicrobial properties also promote healing and prevent infection, which can be beneficial for conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or gum disease.
Additionally, Achillea millefolium contains compounds that may help relax tense muscles and soothe irritated tissues, making it a potentially helpful remedy for individuals experiencing difficulty chewing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium teas that help with difficulty chewing.
- Phenolic acids: They exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and pain in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing discomfort and pain associated with difficulty chewing.
- Terpenes: Terpenes, particularly those like borneol and camphor, have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Achillea millefolium used to make teas for difficulty chewing.
- Leaves: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and calm the oral mucosa.
- Flowers: They are used for their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help ease discomfort and pain associated with difficulty chewing.
- Stems: They are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing, which can help alleviate oral issues contributing to difficulty chewing.
8. Centella asiatica
Centella asiatica teas helps with difficulty chewing because it contains compounds that promote healing and regeneration in the mouth and throat.
The tea's anti-inflammatory properties may reduce swelling and pain associated with conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which can cause difficulty chewing. Additionally, Centella asiatica's antioxidant properties may help protect the mucous membranes in the mouth from damage, allowing for smoother and more efficient chewing.
This can lead to improved overall oral function and reduced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Centella asiatica teas that help with difficulty chewing.
- Asterosaponins: These compounds help with difficulty chewing by reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the mouth, which can alleviate discomfort and pain associated with chewing.
- Asiatic acid: Asiatic Acid aids in difficulty chewing by exhibiting antioxidant properties that protect the mouth and surrounding tissues from oxidative damage, which can contribute to mouth pain and discomfort.
- Madecassic acid: Madecassic Acid helps with difficulty chewing by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing, which can alleviate pain and discomfort in the mouth and surrounding tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Centella asiatica used to make teas for difficulty chewing.
- Leaves: Rich in saponins and other compounds, which may help soothe and calm mouth and gum inflammation.
- Roots: Contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation and pain in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew.
- Stems: May be used to create teas that help reduce swelling and inflammation in the mouth, making it easier to chew and swallow.
9. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis teas helps with difficulty chewing because of its calming and soothing properties, which can help relax the jaw muscles and ease tension.
The tea's anti-inflammatory compounds may also reduce swelling and discomfort in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew and swallow food. Additionally, Melissa officinalis contains a compound called rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, further contributing to its potential benefits for individuals experiencing difficulty chewing.
Regular consumption may also promote relaxation and reduce overall discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis teas that help with difficulty chewing.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, which may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with difficulty chewing.
- Luteolin: As a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, luteolin may help alleviate pain and discomfort that hinder chewing ability.
- Volatile oil: These terpenes have a calming effect and may help reduce anxiety and stress that can exacerbate difficulty chewing due to tension or anxiety.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Melissa officinalis used to make teas for difficulty chewing.
- Leaves: The leaves of Melissa officinalis are commonly used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm the mouth and throat, making it easier to chew and swallow.
- Flowers: The flowers of Melissa officinalis are often used to make teas because they contain flavonoids and essential oils that help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth and throat, making it easier to chew and swallow.
- Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis are occasionally used to make teas due to their mild anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and calm the mouth and throat, making it easier to chew and swallow.
10. Panax ginseng
Panax ginseng teas helps with difficulty chewing because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to improve circulation.
The herbs' stimulation of the nervous system can also increase saliva production, which aids in the digestive process and reduces discomfort. Additionally, ginseng's adaptogenic properties can help reduce stress and fatigue, allowing individuals to chew and swallow food more efficiently. This can lead to improved oral function and overall digestive health.
Regular consumption may help alleviate chewing difficulties.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax ginseng teas that help with difficulty chewing.
- Ginsenoside rg1: This compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce swelling and pain in the jaw and mouth, making it easier to chew.
- Ginsenoside re: Ginsenoside Re has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.
- Ginsenoside rb1: Ginsenoside Rb1 has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect the mouth and jaw from oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting healthy chewing function.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Panax ginseng used to make teas for difficulty chewing.
- Roots: The roots of Panax ginseng are the most commonly used part for teas due to their high concentration of ginsenosides, which are believed to aid in relieving difficulty in chewing.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas as they contain saponins that may help to alleviate symptoms of difficulty chewing and promote overall oral health.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Panax ginseng are sometimes used to make teas as they are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce pain associated with difficulty chewing.