10 Best Herbal Capsules For Difficulty Eating

Herbal capsules for difficulty eating are natural supplements designed to alleviate symptoms associated with swallowing disorders, such as dysphagia.

These capsules typically contain a blend of herbs that soothe and relax the esophageal muscles, making it easier to swallow and digest food. Examples include slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root, which have been traditionally used to treat digestive issues.

By taking these capsules, individuals with difficulty eating can enjoy meals without discomfort or distress, improving their overall quality of life and reducing the risk of malnutrition.

The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for difficulty eating, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice capsules helps with difficulty eating because they provide relief from digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and heartburn.

The licorice root extract in these capsules soothes the stomach lining, reducing inflammation and irritation that can make meals uncomfortable or even painful to consume.

By calming the digestive system, herbal licorice capsules enable individuals to enjoy their food without discomfort, allowing them to eat more comfortably and with greater ease.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules that help with difficulty eating.

• Licorice saponins: These saponins have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing discomfort and pain associated with eating.
• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, promoting a healthy environment for eating and digestion.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the digestive tract from damage and promote healthy eating habits.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make capsules for difficulty eating.

• Roots: They are used due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which helps in improving digestion and alleviating gastrointestinal issues.
• Leaves: They are used as they are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in soothing digestive issues and promoting easy eating.
• Barks: They are used as they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may help in reducing inflammation and improving digestive health.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 250 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a reliable supplier or your own cultivated source.
2. Crush the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle within 30 minutes.
3. Mix 250 mg of the powdered glycyrrhiza glabra with 500 mg of excipients such as starch or cellulose in a bowl.
4. Fill 200 capsules with the mixture and seal them using a capsule filling machine within 60 minutes.
5. Label and date 100 capsules with the ingredients and dosage information according to local regulations within 30 minutes.

2. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow capsules helps with difficulty eating because they provide soothing relief to irritated mucous membranes in the digestive tract.

The gel-like coating of the marshmallow plant helps to calm inflammation and reduce discomfort associated with conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, acid reflux, and irritable bowel syndrome.

By reducing inflammation and irritation, herbal marshmallow capsules can make eating a more comfortable experience for individuals who struggle with difficulty swallowing, gagging, or experiencing pain while consuming food.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis capsules that help with difficulty eating.

• Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort that can contribute to difficulty eating.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the digestive tract, making it easier to eat and digest food.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, including pectins and other soluble fibers, can help form a protective barrier in the stomach and intestines, reducing irritation and inflammation that can lead to difficulty eating.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make capsules for difficulty eating.

• Roots: The roots are used to make capsules for difficulty eating due to their mucilaginous properties, which help soothe and calm the digestive system.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make capsules for difficulty eating due to their high mucilage content, which can help protect and heal the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of dried root of althaea officinalis from a trusted supplier or cultivated plant.
2. Clean and sift the dried root material to remove any debris and contaminants.
3. Grind 5-10 grams of the sifted root material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Mix the powdered root with a suitable capsule filler such as starch or cellulose in a 1:1 ratio.
5. Fill gelatin capsules with 400-500 mg of the powdered root mixture and seal immediately to preserve potency.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe capsules helps with difficulty eating because they contain soothing properties that can ease digestive discomfort, making it easier to consume meals.

The gel-like substance within aloe vera has anti-inflammatory effects on the digestive tract, reducing irritation and inflammation caused by conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

By taking herbal aloe capsules, individuals may experience relief from symptoms like bloating, cramps, and diarrhea, allowing them to enjoy their food without discomfort or pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera capsules that help with difficulty eating.

• Gelatinous mucilage: This gel-like substance helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort that may be contributing to difficulty eating.
• Aloin: A anthraquinone glycoside, Aloin has anti-inflammatory and laxative properties, which may help to alleviate constipation and discomfort that can make eating difficult.
• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates have prebiotic properties, which can help to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, supporting a healthy gut microbiome and reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) that can make eating difficult.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make capsules for difficulty eating.

• Leaves: The gel inside the leaves is commonly used due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help ease digestive issues.
• Leaves: The extract from Aloe vera leaves also contains vitamins and minerals that can support healthy digestion and provide essential nutrients.
• Leaves: The juice from Aloe vera leaves is often used to help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract, making it easier to eat and digest food.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for difficulty eating.

1. Measure 2 cups of aloe vera gel and 1 cup of distilled water to combine in a container.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed for 5 minutes to create a smooth and consistent texture.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh filter to remove any impurities and sediment.
4. Fill gelatin capsules with 500mg of the aloe vera mixture and seal them properly.
5. Store the herbal aloe vera capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 years.

4. Sambucus nigra

Elder capsules helps with difficulty eating because they contain natural anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and calm the digestive tract.

The gentle and non-irritating properties of elder capsules can help to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

By promoting a healthy gut environment, elder capsules may alleviate symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort that can make eating uncomfortable.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra capsules that help with difficulty eating.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with difficulty eating by exerting anti-inflammatory effects and improving digestion, which can alleviate symptoms associated with eating difficulties.
• Sambunigrin: This compound is a glycoside that may help with difficulty eating by having a soothing effect on the digestive tract, reducing inflammation, and promoting a healthy gut environment.
• Phenolic acids: These plant acids may help with difficulty eating by exhibiting antioxidant properties that can help protect the digestive system from damage and promote a healthy gut microbiome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make capsules for difficulty eating.

• Flowers: They are used as they are rich in flavonoids, particularly quercetin and anthocyanins, which may help alleviate digestive issues.
• Fruits: The fruit of Sambucus nigra, also known as elderberries, are used as they are rich in anthocyanins, which may help soothe digestive issues and promote healthy eating.
• Leaves: They are used as they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that may help alleviate digestive problems and promote a healthy appetite.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for difficulty eating.

1. Harvest sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in mid-to-late summer when they are in full bloom.
2. Dry the harvested sambucus nigra flowers and leaves using a food dehydrator or oven on low for 24 hours at 30 degrees celsius.
3. Grind the dried sambucus nigra flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or blender.
4. Mix 1 part of the ground sambucus nigra powder with 2 parts of a natural carrier powder such as cornstarch in a small bowl.
5. Fill empty gelatin capsules with the sambucus nigra powder mixture and store them in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

5. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree capsules helps with difficulty eating because they contain mucilage, a natural gel-like substance that soothes and protects the digestive tract.

When taken before meals, the mucilage forms a protective barrier in the stomach and small intestine, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by food intolerance or digestive issues.

This can make it easier to digest food, alleviate discomfort, and improve overall eating experience for individuals who struggle with difficulty eating due to various digestive concerns.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba capsules that help with difficulty eating.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help improve blood flow to the digestive system, potentially reducing symptoms of difficulty eating such as digestive discomfort or slowed digestion.
• Terpenoids: They may aid in improving cognitive function and memory, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing difficulty eating due to cognitive decline or dementia.
• Bilobalide: This terpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which could help alleviate digestive discomfort and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, potentially making eating easier for individuals with certain digestive issues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make capsules for difficulty eating.

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help improve blood flow and digestion.
• Seeds: The seeds are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the digestive system.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for difficulty eating.

1. Harvest 250g of dried ginkgo biloba leaves from a reputable source.
2. Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
3. Mix 500mg of the ground ginkgo biloba powder with 500mg of starch.
4. Fill empty gelatin capsules with the mixture using a capsule filler.
5. Label and store the herbal ginkgo biloba capsules in a cool dry place.

6. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm capsules helps with difficulty eating because they alleviate digestive discomfort and promote a sense of calm, making mealtime less stressful.

The natural properties of lemon balm, such as its anti-inflammatory and carminative effects, help to soothe the stomach and relieve symptoms like bloating, gas, and cramps.

By calming the digestive system, lemon balm capsules can improve appetite and make eating a more enjoyable experience, allowing individuals with difficulty eating to focus on nourishing their bodies rather than struggling through mealtime.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis capsules that help with difficulty eating.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and anxiety associated with eating difficulties, thereby promoting a more comfortable eating experience.
• Citral: As a terpene, citral has been shown to have anxiolytic effects, which can help alleviate stress and anxiety related to eating, making it easier to consume food.
• Nuciferine: This alkaloid has been found to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce anxiety and stress associated with eating difficulties, promoting a more relaxed and comfortable eating experience.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make capsules for difficulty eating.

• Leaves: Used to make capsules due to their high content of lemon balm oil, which has been traditionally used to improve digestion and reduce symptoms of indigestion.
• Roots: Utilized in capsules for their medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate digestive discomfort.
• Stems: Employed in making capsules for their potential to aid in digestion and reduce symptoms of bloating, thanks to their bioactive compounds and essential oils.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for difficulty eating.

1. Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves in late morning when the plant is in full bloom for optimal potency 2 hours after sunrise.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer on paper bags or a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 6 hours.
3. Grind the dried melissa officinalis leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
4. Mix the powdered melissa officinalis with a carrier agent like tapioca starch or silicon dioxide in a 1:1 ratio for easy encapsulation.
5. Fill gelatin capsules with 250 milligrams of the melissa officinalis powder mixture and seal the capsules immediately to preserve freshness.

7. Paeonia suffruticosa

Tree peony capsules helps with difficulty eating because they promote digestive health by soothing the stomach and intestines.

The herb's natural properties calm inflammation and reduce discomfort, making it easier to digest food. Additionally, tree peony has anti-inflammatory compounds that help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) such as bloating, cramps, and diarrhea, allowing individuals with eating difficulties to enjoy meals without discomfort or pain.

This results in a more enjoyable and stress-free dining experience.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Paeonia suffruticosa capsules that help with difficulty eating.

• Paeoniflorin: This glycoside helps to alleviate difficulty eating by reducing inflammation and relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, which can become tense and lead to eating difficulties.
• Paeonol: A phenolic compound, paeonol has anti-inflammatory properties that may help to soothe and calm the digestive system, making it easier to eat and swallow food.
• Benzenoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which may help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with eating difficulties, such as dysphagia.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tree peony used to make capsules for difficulty eating.

• Roots: They are commonly used to make capsules due to their medicinal properties, which are believed to help alleviate digestive issues.
• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Paeonia suffruticosa are used in capsule form to potentially aid in digestion and reduce symptoms of difficulty eating.
• Leaves: Leaves of Paeonia suffruticosa are used to make capsules that may help alleviate digestive problems and facilitate eating.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tree peony for difficulty eating.

1. Harvest fresh flowers of paeonia suffruticosa in the morning after dew has fallen for best results.
2. Dry the flowers in a warm place at a temperature below 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
3. Grind the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mill or grinder at a dosage of 20 grams.
4. Mix the powder with a binding agent like starch or gelatin at a dosage of 5 grams per 20 grams of powder.
5. Fill a capsule shell with the prepared mixture and seal the capsules using a capsule filling machine.

8. Curcuma longa

Turmeric capsules helps with difficulty eating because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can alleviate digestive discomfort and pain associated with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

The curcumin in turmeric also has natural antacid and anti-spasmodic effects, helping to soothe the stomach lining and reduce inflammation.

This can make eating less painful and more comfortable, allowing individuals to enjoy their meals without discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa capsules that help with difficulty eating.

• Curcumin: Curcumin helps with difficulty eating by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, which can alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC helps with difficulty eating by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which can contribute to digestive discomfort and pain, making it easier to eat and digest food.
• Volurin: Volurin helps with difficulty eating by demonstrating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and protect the digestive tract, reducing symptoms of digestive disorders and making it easier to eat and digest food.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make capsules for difficulty eating.

• Rhyzomes: They are the most used part due to their high concentration of curcumin, a bioactive compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and aids digestion.
• Roots: Roots are another commonly used part as they contain curcumin and other beneficial compounds that help in alleviating digestive issues and making eating easier.
• Leaves: Although less commonly used, the leaves of Curcuma longa are also used to make capsules for difficulty eating due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Grind 1-2 teaspoons of dried curcuma longa root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 2 minutes.
2. Mix the ground powder with 1/2 teaspoon of gelatin powder in a small bowl.
3. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of boiling water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved for 5 minutes.
4. Use a dropper or spoon to fill empty gelatin capsules with the curcuma longa mixture.
5. Label and store the capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place.

9. Ruscus aculeatus

Dog holly capsules helps with difficulty eating because they contain a unique blend of herbs that soothe digestive issues, reducing inflammation and discomfort in the mouth and throat.

The gentle anti-inflammatory properties of these herbs ease swallowing difficulties, allowing dogs to eat with greater ease and confidence.

As a result, dog owners can observe an improvement in their pet's appetite and overall health, as they're able to enjoy meals without struggle or distress.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ruscus aculeatus capsules that help with difficulty eating.

• Ruscogenin: Ruscogenin is a saponin glycoside found in Ruscus aculeatus. It may help with difficulty eating by reducing inflammation and improving muscle tone in the digestive system, thereby facilitating smoother digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Coumarins: Coumarins, such as scopoletin, are present in Ruscus aculeatus. They may help with difficulty eating by relaxing smooth muscle in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramping that can impede eating and digestion.
• Friedelin: Friedelin is a triterpene found in Ruscus aculeatus. It may help with difficulty eating by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive system, which can contribute to impaired eating and nutrient absorption.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dog holly used to make capsules for difficulty eating.

• Leaves: Used to make capsules for difficulty eating due to their purported ability to aid in digestion.
• Stems: Used to make capsules for difficulty eating due to their potential to help reduce inflammation and improve gut health.
• Roots: Used to make capsules for difficulty eating due to their claimed ability to stimulate digestion and reduce symptoms of IBS.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dog holly for difficulty eating.

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of ruscus aculeatus roots and leaves in early morning to ensure optimal potency and freshness.
2. Cleanse the harvested ruscus aculeatus thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Dry the cleaned ruscus aculeatus at 40°c for 2-3 hours using a dehydrator to prevent moisture retention.
4. Grind 2-3 grams of dried ruscus aculeatus into a fine powder using a coffee grinder to increase bioavailability.
5. Fill gelatin capsules with 250-500 mg of the ruscus aculeatus powder and seal immediately to preserve freshness.

10. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion capsules helps with difficulty eating because they aid in digestion and alleviate digestive issues that can make mealtime a chore.

The natural properties of dandelion root help stimulate the appetite, ease bloating, and reduce inflammation in the gut, making it easier to consume food without discomfort. Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory effects can soothe the digestive tract, reducing irritation and discomfort that can make eating feel like a struggle.

As a result, individuals experiencing difficulty eating may find relief with regular use of dandelion capsules.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale capsules that help with difficulty eating.

• Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe digestive issues and reduce discomfort associated with difficulty eating.
• Inulin: A type of soluble fiber, inulin can help regulate bowel movements, alleviate constipation, and support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, ultimately making eating easier.
• Taraxasterol: A triterpenoid saponin, taraxasterol has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce digestive inflammation and alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a common cause of difficulty eating.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make capsules for difficulty eating.

• Leaves: They are used to make capsules because they contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can aid digestion and ease digestive issues.
• Roots: They are used to make capsules because they contain inulin, a prebiotic fiber that can help regulate bowel movements and improve nutrient absorption.
• Seeds: They are used to make capsules because they contain a high amount of inulin and other nutrients that can help support digestive health and ease symptoms of difficulty eating.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for difficulty eating.

1. Harvest taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the early morning after the dew has evaporated completely.
2. Dry the plant material in a single layer at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
3. Grind the dried roots and leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Fill empty gelatin capsules with 0.5 grams of the taraxacum officinale powder and seal them.
5. Label and store the capsules in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for difficulty eating?

The best combination of herbal capsules that help with difficulty eating is Ashwagandha and Ginger.

Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, helps reduce stress and anxiety, common triggers for eating difficulties. Ginger, with its anti-inflammatory properties, can aid digestion and alleviate nausea. A third component, Licorice root, can soothe the stomach and intestines, promoting a sense of calm and reducing discomfort.

This trio can work together to ease eating difficulties, promote digestive comfort, and support overall well-being.

What ailments similar to difficulty eating are treated with herbal capsules?

Ailments similar to difficulty eating that are treated with herbal capsules are gastrointestinal disorders such as indigestion, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Herbal capsules containing ingredients like peppermint, ginger, and slippery elm may help soothe the digestive system and alleviate symptoms.

Additionally, herbs like chamomile and licorice root may also be used to treat stomach ulcers, gastritis, and acid reflux.