10 Best Herbal Creams For Difficulty Eating

Herbal creams for difficulty eating are topical remedies infused with natural herbs, designed to soothe and calm the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, making it easier to eat and swallow.

Examples of beneficial herbs include slippery elm, aloe vera, and marshmallow root, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

These creams improve lives by alleviating discomfort and pain associated with conditions like esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and oral mucositis, allowing individuals to enjoy meals and maintain a healthy diet.

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

1. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with difficulty eating because it improves blood flow to the brain and reduces inflammation.

This increased circulation enhances cognitive function and memory, allowing individuals to better coordinate their eating movements and make informed food choices. Additionally, Ginkgo biloba's antioxidant properties may help alleviate symptoms associated with swallowing difficulties and reduce the risk of choking.

By promoting overall health and well-being, Ginkgo biloba creams can support individuals with eating difficulties.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help improve blood flow to the brain and digestive system, potentially alleviating symptoms of difficulty eating such as dysphagia.
• Terpenoids: Specifically, bilobalide and ginkgolide B, terpenoids in Ginkgo biloba, have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat and digestive tract, making it easier to eat.
• Bilobalide: This terpenoid has neuroprotective effects, which may help improve cognitive function and coordination, allowing individuals with difficulty eating to better manage food and liquids.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which help improve blood flow to the brain and may aid in cognitive function.
• Barks: Ginkgo biloba bark contains flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the body.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which may aid in improving cognitive function and reducing inflammation in the body.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 250 grams of ginkgo biloba extract and 100 grams of beeswax from a local supplier.
2. Weigh 200 grams of coconut oil and 100 grams of shea butter in a mixing bowl.
3. Combine 10 grams of vitamin e oil and 5 grams of sweet almond oil with the coconut oil mixture.
4. Heat the coconut oil mixture in a double boiler at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 20 minutes.
5. Add 15 grams of ginkgo biloba extract to the cooled mixture and whip until smooth and creamy.

2. Boswellia serrata

Boswellia serrata, also known as frankincense, creams helps with difficulty eating because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce pain and discomfort in the digestive system.

This can help alleviate symptoms associated with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, and gastroparesis. By soothing inflammation and relaxing the muscles, Boswellia serrata creams can improve digestion, reduce nausea and abdominal cramps, and make eating more comfortable.

This can lead to improved nutrient absorption and overall digestive health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata creams that help with difficulty eating.

• Alpha-boswellic acid: ABA has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help reduce discomfort and pain associated with eating, making it easier for individuals to manage difficulty eating.
• Terpineol: Terpineol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of difficulty eating, such as pain and discomfort.
• Furofurofuran lignans: FFLs have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to difficulty eating.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make creams for difficulty eating.

• Roots: They are used to make creams due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe digestive issues.
• Rhyzomes: They contain boswellic acids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve digestive comfort.
• Seeds: They are used in creams due to their potential to aid in digestion and reduce inflammation, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Extract 3-6 grams of boswellia serrata resin from dried roots and stems using ethanol or glycerin as solvent.
2. Mix the extracted boswellia serrata resin with 30-50 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
3. Combine the boswellia serrata mixture with 20-30 grams of shea butter and 10-15 grams of beeswax in the double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture to 160-180 degrees fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes until the beeswax and shea butter melt completely.
5. Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool before pouring into containers for a final consistency of 1-2 hours.

3. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with difficulty eating because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The curcumin present in turmeric creams reduces inflammation in the digestive tract, which can alleviate symptoms of difficulty eating, such as pain and discomfort. Additionally, turmeric's ability to stimulate digestion and improve gut health can help with the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, making it easier to eat and maintain a balanced diet.

This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions such as gastritis or irritable bowel syndrome.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound that may help alleviate difficulty eating by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress associated with conditions like dysphagia, which can make eating painful or uncomfortable.
• Demethoxycurcumin: A derivative of curcumin that may help with difficulty eating by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which can contribute to chronic inflammation and pain.
• Ar-turmerone: A sesquiterpene that may help with difficulty eating by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive system, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes contain curcumin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate digestive issues and ease eating difficulties.
• Roots: Roots of Curcuma longa are rich in curcumin, which can help reduce inflammation and improve digestion, making it easier to eat.
• Seeds: Seeds of Curcuma longa contain volatile oils that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate digestive issues and make eating more comfortable.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Infuse 1 tablespoon of dried curcuma longa roots in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
3. Mix 1/2 cup of distilled water with 1 tablespoon of beeswax in a double boiler.
4. Gradually add the infused curcuma longa liquid to the beeswax mixture while constantly stirring.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for at least 30 minutes before transferring to jars.

4. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with difficulty eating because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

It can soothe digestive issues such as bloating, nausea, and stomach discomfort, making it easier to consume food. The cream's warming effect can also stimulate digestive enzymes, enhancing nutrient absorption and reducing discomfort associated with eating. Additionally, ginger has natural anti-nausea properties, which can alleviate food aversions and make mealtime more manageable for individuals experiencing difficulty eating.

This natural remedy can provide relief and promote a healthier relationship with food.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with eating, thereby making it easier for individuals to consume food.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, similar to gingerols, possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help reduce pain and discomfort during eating, making it more manageable for individuals with difficulty eating.
• Volatile oils: The volatile oils in ginger creams may help stimulate digestion and relieve nausea, which can be a significant issue for individuals with difficulty eating due to conditions such as dysphagia or gastroparesis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for difficulty eating.

• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes are used due to their high concentration of gingerols, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe digestive issues and ease eating difficulties.
• Roots: The roots are used because they contain a high amount of shogaols, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and digestive-aiding properties that can help alleviate difficulty eating.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their ability to provide a soothing and calming effect, which can help ease digestive discomfort and make eating easier.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 cup of zingiber officinale root and clean it thoroughly with distilled water for 30 minutes.
2. Grind 2 tablespoons of the cleaned root into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
3. Combine 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of shea butter in a double boiler.
4. Add 1 teaspoon of the ground zingiber officinale root powder to the coconut oil mixture and stir for 2 minutes.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 60 minutes before transferring it to a glass jar.

5. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with difficulty eating because of its soothing and calming effects on the digestive system.

The menthol in peppermint creams can help relax the muscles in the stomach, reducing discomfort and pain associated with eating. Additionally, peppermint's natural anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, allowing for smoother digestion and reducing the sensation of difficulty eating.

This can lead to improved appetite and a more enjoyable eating experience.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with difficulty eating.

• Menthol: Helps with difficulty eating by providing a soothing and cooling sensation in the mouth and throat, which can aid in reducing discomfort and inflammation associated with eating.
• Menthone: Helps with difficulty eating by exhibiting antispasmodic properties that can relax the muscles in the throat and mouth, making it easier to swallow and eat.
• Rosmarinic acid: Helps with difficulty eating by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract and improve overall digestion.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for difficulty eating.

• Leaves: The leaves contain menthol and menthone, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the mouth and throat.
• Stems: The stems are a good source of menthol, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with difficulty eating.
• Roots: The roots contain a higher concentration of menthol and menthone compared to the leaves, making them a valuable part for creams that need to be more potent.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves at the peak of its fragrance and oil content.
2. Steep the fresh leaves in 250ml of boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release its essence.
3. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
4. Mix 50g of beeswax and 50g of coconut oil with the liquid extract in a heat-proof bowl.
5. Blend the mixture thoroughly and pour it into tin containers for a smooth herbal mentha x piperita cream.

6. Sambucus nigra

Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, creams helps with difficulty eating because of its soothing properties and anti-inflammatory effects.

The cream's active compounds, such as flavonoids and terpenes, help to calm irritated tissues in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, reducing discomfort and pain associated with eating.

By alleviating inflammation and soothing mucous membranes, Sambucus nigra creams can make it easier for individuals to eat, drink, and swallow, improving their overall quality of life and enabling them to enjoy their favorite foods again.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Isoflavones: These plant-derived compounds help alleviate difficulty eating by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can alleviate symptoms of dysphagia.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat and mouth, making swallowing easier.
• Tannins: These astringent compounds help to reduce inflammation and dryness in the mouth and throat, making it more comfortable to eat and swallow.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used to create creams due to their high content of anthocyanins and flavonoids, which help to reduce inflammation and soothe digestive issues.
• Leaves: The leaves of Sambucus nigra contain antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them suitable for creams aimed at alleviating symptoms of difficulty eating.
• Fruits: The fruits are rich in antioxidants and contain anti-inflammatory compounds, which contribute to their use in creams designed to aid digestion and ease eating difficulties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50g of sambucus nigra flowers when in full bloom and dry them thoroughly for 24 hours.
2. Create a 20% ethanol solution by mixing 100ml of 95% ethanol with 400ml of distilled water.
3. Combine the dried sambucus nigra flowers with 200ml of the ethanol solution in a clean glass container.
4. Steep the mixture in a warm dark place for 2 weeks, shaking it daily for 10 minutes.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and add 50g of beeswax to 100g of the resulting liquid.

7. Aloe vera

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with difficulty eating because of its soothing and moisturizing properties.

The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains anti-inflammatory compounds that calm irritated mucous membranes and skin, making it easier to swallow and eat. Additionally, aloe vera creams can help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with conditions such as oral mucositis, oral lichen planus, and stomatitis, allowing individuals to eat and drink with greater ease and comfort.

This can be particularly beneficial for those with mouth sores or sensitive skin.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glucomannans: These soluble fiber constituents help to slow down digestion, allowing for better absorption of nutrients and potentially alleviating symptoms of dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and dyspepsia (difficulty eating).
• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with eating difficulties.
• Anthraquinones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and laxative properties, which may help to manage constipation, a common issue among individuals with difficulty eating, and promote overall digestive health.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The gel inside the leaves of Aloe vera is often used to make creams due to its soothing and protective properties that can help alleviate oral discomfort and promote healing.
• Leaves: The inner gel is also often used to make creams due to its anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with difficulty eating.
• Leaves: The extract from the leaves of Aloe vera is often used to make creams due to its moisturizing properties that can help soothe and calm the mouth, making it easier to eat and swallow.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 100 grams of aloe vera gel, 20 grams of coconut oil and 10 grams of beeswax for the base.
2. Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler over low heat for 5 minutes.
3. Mix the aloe vera gel with 10 grams of vitamin e oil and 5 grams of shea butter in a bowl.
4. Combine the melted oil mixture with the aloe vera gel mixture and stir until well combined for 2 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and harden for 30 minutes before use.

8. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with difficulty eating because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The cream may reduce swelling and discomfort in the mouth, throat, and esophagus, making it easier for individuals to swallow and eat. Additionally, the cream's soothing effects can calm digestive issues, such as nausea and pain, associated with eating.

This can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing eating difficulties due to conditions like esophagitis or mouth sores.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with difficulty eating.

• Hyperforin: Hyperforin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate mouth and throat discomfort that contributes to eating difficulties.
• N-feruloylserotonin: N-feruloylserotonin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with eating difficulties.
• Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders that contribute to eating difficulties.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for difficulty eating.

• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties beneficial for soothing digestive issues.
• Flowers: They contain hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help alleviate digestive discomfort and promote ease of eating.
• Roots: They have been traditionally used to treat various gastrointestinal issues due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for difficulty eating.

1. Gather 30 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and 60 grams of vegetable oil in a clean glass container.
2. Infuse the flowers in the oil for 4 hours in a cool dark place or 2 hours in a warm sunny location.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean container discarding the solids.
4. Mix 10 grams of beeswax with 10 grams of vitamin e oil and heat the mixture in a double boiler until melted.
5. Combine the infused oil mixture with the melted beeswax mixture and stir until well combined and thickened.

9. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with difficulty eating because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The cream's active ingredients can help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the mouth and throat, making it easier to swallow and consume food. Additionally, calendula's antimicrobial properties can help to prevent infections that can cause discomfort and difficulty eating.

This can be especially beneficial for individuals with conditions such as oral lichen planus or mouth ulcers.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe mouth and throat irritation that may be contributing to difficulty eating.
• Sesquiterpenes: They have antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the risk of infection and inflammation in the mouth and throat, making it easier to eat and swallow.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat, making it more comfortable to eat.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for difficulty eating.

• Flowers: The flowers are primarily used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are often incorporated into creams for their calming effects on the digestive system.
• Seeds: Although less common, the seeds may also be used due to their potential to aid digestion and relieve discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest calendula flowers by cutting them at a 45-degree angle when they are in full bloom.
2. Dry the calendula flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 2 weeks.
3. Infuse the dried calendula flowers in a carrier oil such as jojoba oil at a 1:3 ratio for 2 hours.
4. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids.
5. Mix the infused oil with a natural emulsifier such as beeswax and shea butter in a 3:2:1 ratio to create a stable cream.

10. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with difficulty eating because it contains valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, which have a calming effect on the digestive system.

This soothing action can help reduce anxiety and stress that may be contributing to eating difficulties, promoting a more relaxed and comfortable eating experience.

By easing digestive discomfort and promoting relaxation, valerian creams may help individuals with difficulty eating to enjoy meals more calmly and comfortably, potentially improving their overall eating experience.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Valerenic acid: This sesquiterpene acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which can help reduce anxiety and stress-related eating disorders by promoting relaxation and reducing emotional eating.
• Valerenol: As a valerenic acid derivative, valerenol also exhibits anxiolytic and sedative properties, potentially aiding in the management of eating disorders associated with anxiety and stress.
• Isovalerenol: This valerenic acid-derived compound has been shown to possess a sedative effect, which may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress-related eating difficulties by promoting relaxation and reducing emotional eating.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for difficulty eating.

• Roots: The roots are commonly used due to their high concentration of valerenic acid, a key component responsible for the plant's medicinal properties.
• Leaves: The leaves contain valerenic acid and other bioactive compounds that help in addressing digestive issues, making them a suitable choice for creams.
• Flowers: The flowers of Valeriana officinalis are used to create creams that help with difficulty eating due to their soothing and calming effects on the digestive system.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Extract 60g of valeriana officinalis roots in a 1:5 ratio using 95% ethanol for 2 weeks.
2. Filter the liquid through a cheesecloth to separate the plant material from the solvent.
3. Evaporate the solvent using a rotary evaporator to obtain a concentrated extract in 4 hours.
4. Mix 10g of the extract with 20g of emulsifying wax and 20g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
5. Add 5g of beeswax and 5g of vitamin e oil to the mixture and heat until fully incorporated in 30 minutes.

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

The best combination of herbal creams that help with difficulty eating is a blend of calendula, aloe vera, and slippery elm.

Calendula cream soothes and calms irritated tissues, while aloe vera provides anti-inflammatory properties to reduce discomfort. Slippery elm cream, rich in mucilage, coats and protects the digestive tract, making eating more comfortable. Applying these creams topically before meals may help ease difficulty eating, promoting a smoother and more enjoyable dining experience.

Regular use can also help alleviate long-term discomfort.

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

Ailments similar to difficulty eating that are treated with herbal creams are skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, which cause itching, redness, and irritation.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and tea tree oil help soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

Additionally, conditions like sunburn, minor burns, and scrapes can also be treated with herbal creams to promote healing and reduce pain.