10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Difficulty Eating

Herbal tinctures for difficulty eating are concentrated liquid extracts of plants, roots, and herbs used to promote digestion, ease swallowing, and alleviate discomfort when consuming food.

These natural remedies help by stimulating digestive enzymes, soothing the gut lining, and reducing inflammation, making it easier to eat and digest meals.

For example, slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root tinctures can help soothe the esophagus and reduce symptoms of dysphagia, allowing individuals with difficulty eating to enjoy their favorite foods once again, improving overall quality of life and reducing anxiety related to mealtime.

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

1. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with difficulty eating because it calms the digestive system, reducing inflammation and discomfort that can make mealtimes a challenge.

The plant's natural anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and nausea. Additionally, the tincture's gentle sedative effects can calm nervousness and anxiety associated with eating, making it easier to consume food without discomfort or distress.

As a result, individuals experiencing difficulty eating due to digestive issues can find relief and improved appetite with the use of maidenhair tree tinctures.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These antioxidant compounds help improve blood flow to the digestive system, which can aid in swallowing and digestion, making eating easier.
• Terpenoids: This terpenoid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain in the esophagus and digestive tract, making swallowing more comfortable.
• Ginkgolides: These diterpenoid lactones have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of esophageal dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), making eating less challenging.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are used to make tinctures due to their high flavonoid and bilobalide content, which is believed to improve blood flow and memory.
• Seeds: The seeds of Ginkgo biloba are used to make tinctures due to their high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help improve cognitive function and ease digestion.
• Roots: The roots of Ginkgo biloba are used to make tinctures due to their potential to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, which may help alleviate digestive issues and difficulty eating.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1000 grams of ginkgo biloba leaves in late summer or early fall when they are fully ripe.
2. Chop the ginkgo biloba leaves into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped ginkgo biloba leaves with 70% ethanol in a ratio of 1:2 to create a strong solvent.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow for maximum extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a clear herbal tincture.

2. Curcuma longa

Turmeric tinctures helps with difficulty eating because it contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that soothes digestive issues.

When taken as a supplement, turmeric tincture can ease inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing discomfort and pain associated with eating. Additionally, its antioxidant properties may help to protect the stomach lining from damage, allowing for better nutrient absorption and digestion.

This can lead to improved appetite and a sense of relief when consuming food.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: This polyphenolic compound helps with difficulty eating by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive system, thereby improving gut health and reducing symptoms associated with eating disorders.
• Demethoxycurcumin: A polyphenolic derivative of curcumin, DMC has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate digestive discomfort and improve appetite, making it easier to eat.
• Turmerone: A sesquiterpene compound found in Curcuma longa, turmerone has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help soothe digestive issues and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, making it easier to eat and digest food.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of curcumin, a bioactive compound believed to aid digestion and relieve digestive discomfort.
• Leaves: Leaves are used to prepare tinctures that can help address issues related to difficulty eating by potentially alleviating inflammation and promoting gut health.
• Roots: Roots are another commonly used part, often combined with rhyzomes, as they are thought to contain bioactive compounds that support digestive health and ease eating difficulties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 100 grams of dried curcuma longa rhizomes and 70% ethanol as solvent.
2. Grind the rhizomes into fine powder using a coffee grinder to increase surface area.
3. Mix 100 grams of the ground rhizomes with 500 milliliters of 70% ethanol in a glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

3. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with difficulty eating because it soothes the digestive system, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

The menthol in peppermint oil relaxes the muscles in the esophagus, allowing for smoother passage of food and alleviating discomfort associated with swallowing. Additionally, peppermint's calming effects can help reduce anxiety and stress, which are common triggers of eating difficulties.

As a result, herbal peppermint tinctures can provide natural relief for individuals experiencing difficulty eating due to digestive issues or emotional struggles.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Menthol, a terpene, helps with difficulty eating by stimulating digestion and relieving nausea, making it easier to consume food.
• Royleanone: Royleanone, a diterpene, may aid in alleviating gastrointestinal issues, such as indigestion, by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract.
• Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe digestive discomforts, making it easier to eat and digest food.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Rich in menthol and other compounds that can help ease digestive issues and stimulate appetite.
• Stems: Contain oils and menthol that help to soothe digestive discomfort and reduce nausea.
• Roots: Often used for their bitter properties, which can stimulate digestion and relieve digestive issues.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers at peak potency.
2. Chop the plant material into small pieces and fill a clean glass jar to a 1/3 capacity.
3. Combine 3 parts of 95% ethanol with 1 part of distilled water and pour the solvent over the plant material.
4. Seal the jar and place it in a cool dark location for 2 to 6 weeks to allow extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

4. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with difficulty eating because it soothes and calms digestive issues, making mealtime less uncomfortable.

The herb's anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, alleviating symptoms of conditions like pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and gum disease that can make eating painful or difficult.

Additionally, licorice tincture's antacid properties help neutralize stomach acid, reducing discomfort and heartburn associated with acid reflux, allowing individuals to eat without pain or distress.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with difficulty eating by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract, which can alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other conditions that may lead to eating difficulties.
• Liquiritin: A phenolic glycoside, liquiritin helps with difficulty eating by enhancing the protective barrier of the stomach and intestines, which can prevent irritation and discomfort that may make eating painful or uncomfortable.
• Glycyrrhetinic acid: A triterpenoid acid, glycyrrhetinic acid helps with difficulty eating by reducing inflammation and soothing the digestive tract, which can alleviate symptoms of conditions such as gastritis, ulcers, and IBS that may cause eating difficulties.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that can help soothe digestive issues and promote appetite.
• Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra leaves are used in tinctures to aid in digestion and relieve symptoms of indigestion, which can contribute to difficulty eating.
• Roots (again, due to the high glycyrrhizin content and its benefits for digestive issues)::

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 part of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and 2 parts of a neutral spirit like vodka in a clean glass jar.
2. Combine the dried roots and vodka in the jar and seal it to prevent contamination.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow the roots to infuse into the spirit.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass jar to separate the roots from the tincture.
5. Label the tincture with the date and ingredients and store it in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.

5. Ulmus rubra

Slippery elm tinctures helps with difficulty eating because it soothes and protects the mucous membranes in the throat and digestive tract, making it easier to swallow and digest food.

Its demulcent properties create a protective barrier that reduces inflammation and irritation, allowing the body to absorb nutrients more efficiently.

This natural remedy can be especially beneficial for individuals who struggle with swallowing or have conditions such as gastroparesis, dysphagia, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra tinctures that help with difficulty eating.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to difficulty eating by alleviating discomfort and pain associated with inflammation.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, specifically ursolic acid, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and heal the digestive tract, making it easier to eat.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to protect the digestive tract from oxidative stress and inflammation, reducing discomfort and making eating more manageable.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make tinctures for difficulty eating.

• Leaves: Used to make tinctures for difficulty eating due to their potential to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety related to eating.
• Roots: Used to make tinctures for difficulty eating due to their possible ability to regulate digestive function and alleviate issues such as constipation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 500g of fresh or dried ulmus rubra bark and leaves from a trusted source to ensure potency and quality.
2. Chop the gathered ulmus rubra material into small pieces to facilitate the extraction process with a sharp knife.
3. Combine the chopped ulmus rubra with 1l of 80% ethanol in a clean glass container and let it steep for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean container to separate the liquid from the solids.
5. Transfer the resulting tincture to dark glass bottles and store it in a cool dry place to maintain its potency.

6. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with difficulty eating because of its unique ability to soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.

The herbal extract contains mucilages that form a protective barrier, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by conditions such as gum disease, dry mouth, or acid reflux.

This relief enables individuals to eat more comfortably, enjoy their meals without pain, and regain confidence in their ability to nourish themselves.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Polysaccharides: These complex sugars help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with difficulty eating.
• Althaea polysaccharide-iodinated glycoproteins: IPGs have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help reduce swelling and irritation in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, making eating more comfortable.
• Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation, ease pain, and promote healing in the digestive tract, making it easier to eat and digest food.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high mucilage content, which can help soothe digestive issues.
• Leaves: The leaves of Althaea officinalis are used for tinctures because they also contain mucilage, which can aid in digestion and make eating more comfortable.
• Stems: The stems of Althaea officinalis are used for tinctures as they contain a smaller but still significant amount of mucilage, which can help alleviate digestive issues and make eating easier.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the roots of the medicinal plant althaea officinalis in late summer or early fall.
2. Clean and dry the harvested roots thoroughly to prevent contamination and spoilage.
3. Combine the dried roots with a solvent such as ethanol or glycerin in a ratio of 1:5.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks allowing the roots to infuse.
5. Strain and filter the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

7. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with difficulty eating because it soothes digestive issues, alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) such as bloating, cramps, and abdominal pain.

The anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera help to calm the gut, reducing discomfort and making it easier to digest food.

Additionally, aloe tinctures can also help to reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, making eating less painful and more comfortable for individuals experiencing difficulties with swallowing or chewing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Anthraquinones: These compounds, particularly aloin and aloe-emodin, help to soothe inflammation in the digestive tract, reducing pain and discomfort associated with eating.
• Phenolic acids: Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, making eating more comfortable.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, including aloin and aloe-emodin, have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which may help to calm digestive issues and reduce pain, making it easier to eat.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are commonly used because they contain a high concentration of aloin and aloe-emodin, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe digestive issues.
• Stems: Aloe vera stems are used to create tinctures due to their rich content of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, which can help support immune function and alleviate digestive problems.
• Rhyzomes: Aloe vera rhyzomes (roots) are used to make tinctures because they contain compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, similar to the leaves, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate digestive discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest aloe vera leaves in the morning after the plant has been exposed to full sun for at least two hours.
2. Clean the aloe vera leaves thoroughly with cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and place them in a clean glass jar with a lid.
4. Steep the aloe vera pieces in the ethanol or vodka for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

8. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with difficulty eating because it supports digestive health by stimulating digestion and alleviating symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and nausea.

The herb's bitter properties also help to stimulate appetite and increase the production of bile, which aids in fat absorption and reduces inflammation in the digestive tract.

By soothing the digestive system, dandelion tinctures can help individuals who struggle with eating due to discomfort or pain, allowing them to enjoy their meals without distress.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Taraxasterol: This triterpene ester has been shown to stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gut motility, which may help alleviate symptoms of difficulty eating such as constipation and slow digestion.
• Taraxacum officinale flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation associated with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) that can contribute to difficulty eating.
• Taraxasterol and other triterpene saponins: These saponins have been found to have prebiotic properties, which can help promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improve nutrient absorption, potentially alleviating symptoms of difficulty eating such as malabsorption and weight loss.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Used to make tinctures for difficulty eating as they contain bioactive compounds like sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Utilized for their potential to stimulate digestion and alleviate eating difficulties due to their rich content of inulin, a prebiotic fiber.
• Flowers: Employed for their supposed digestive benefits, including reducing inflammation and promoting gut health, which may aid in easing eating difficulties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 250g of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves and clean them thoroughly with cold running water.
2. Combine the cleaned taraxacum officinale roots and leaves with 500ml of 60% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks to allow for infusion and extraction.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container to separate the liquid from solids.
5. Transfer the resulting tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before use.

9. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with difficulty eating because of its calming and soothing properties.

When taken before meals, it can help to ease digestive discomfort and reduce stress, making food easier to swallow and digest. The antispasmodic effects of chamomile also help to relax the muscles in the esophagus and stomach, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with conditions such as acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

This results in a more comfortable eating experience and improved nutritional absorption.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with difficulty eating.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid with sedative and anxiolytic properties that can help calm the digestive system, reducing anxiety-related eating difficulties.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe digestive tract inflammation and reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, which can contribute to eating difficulties.
• Alpha-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that may help reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, promoting a sense of comfort and relaxation that can make eating easier.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for difficulty eating.

• Flowers: They are used due to their high concentration of apigenin and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Leaves: They are used for their calming and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help in reducing stress and discomfort associated with difficulty eating.
• Seeds: They are used due to their rich content of apigenin and other flavonoids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can aid in alleviating digestive issues.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning when they are at their peak potency and dry them immediately.
2. Combine 1 part of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking it every day to facilitate extraction.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in the refrigerator to slow down the aging process.

10. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with difficulty eating because it aids in digestion, reducing inflammation and discomfort that can make mealtime a challenge.

The natural anti-inflammatory properties of ginger soothe the digestive system, alleviating symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and nausea. Additionally, ginger's warming effect stimulates saliva production, making food taste better and easier to swallow.

As a result, individuals experiencing difficulty eating due to digestive issues can find relief with herbal ginger tinctures, allowing them to enjoy meals without discomfort or distress.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These sesquiterpene compounds help with difficulty eating by reducing nausea and inflammation, making it easier for individuals to consume food.
• Shogaols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing nausea and pain associated with eating, thereby facilitating a smoother eating experience.
• 6-gingerol: This sesquiterpene has been shown to have a positive effect on gut motility and digestive enzymes, helping to alleviate digestive discomfort and making it easier for individuals to eat.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes: The underground stems of Zingiber officinale, which contain high concentrations of active compounds that help stimulate digestion and alleviate eating difficulties.
• Roots: Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale contain similar active compounds to the rhyzomes, which are used to aid digestion and relieve eating difficulties.
• Stems: Stems: While not as commonly used, the stems of Zingiber officinale are also a source of active compounds that may aid digestion and alleviate eating difficulties when made into a tincture.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest zingiber officinale rhizomes in the fall after the foliage has died back for maximum potency.
2. Clean and dry the harvested rhizomes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris for at least 7 days.
3. Chop the dried rhizomes into small pieces using a sharp knife or a dedicated root cutter.
4. Combine the chopped rhizomes with 80% ethanol in a ratio of 1:2 by weight and let it steep in a clean glass jar for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container and discard the solids to obtain the final tincture.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with difficulty eating is a blend of Ginger, Peppermint, and Licorice root.

Ginger tincture aids digestion and reduces nausea, while Peppermint calms the stomach and promotes appetite. Licorice root tincture soothes inflammation and supports the digestive system. This combination can be taken in small doses, 2-3 times a day, mixed with water or added to food.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies, especially if you have underlying health conditions or allergies.

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

Ailments similar to difficulty eating that are treated with herbal tinctures are digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Herbal tinctures like peppermint, ginger, and chamomile can soothe the stomach and alleviate symptoms of these conditions.

Additionally, herbal tinctures like slippery elm and licorice root can help to heal and protect the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with digestive disorders.