10 Best Herbal Creams For Difficulty Swallowing

Herbal creams for difficulty swallowing are topical ointments containing natural herbs that help alleviate symptoms of dysphagia, a condition where individuals struggle to swallow.

These creams, often used in combination with traditional treatments, help soothe and relax the throat muscles, improving swallowing efficiency.

Examples include slippery elm and aloe vera creams, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing, allowing individuals to eat and drink more comfortably, improving their quality of life and independence.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with difficulty swallowing because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The triterpenoid glycosides present in licorice root, particularly glycyrrhizin, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the throat and esophagus, thereby easing the discomfort associated with difficulty swallowing.

This anti-inflammatory action helps to calm irritated tissues and promote smooth passage of food and liquids, making it easier to swallow and alleviating symptoms of dysphagia.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: Saponins help with difficulty swallowing by reducing inflammation in the esophagus and promoting smooth muscle relaxation, thereby facilitating the passage of food through the throat.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids help with difficulty swallowing by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to protect the mucous membranes in the throat and promote healing.
• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin helps with difficulty swallowing by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of mucous membranes in the throat, in addition to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm the esophagus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for difficulty swallowing.

• Roots: They contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes, making it easier to swallow.
• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm the digestive system and reduce discomfort associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Barks: They contain compounds that have a soothing effect on the mucous membranes and can help reduce inflammation, making it easier to swallow and alleviate discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Combine 30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots with 500 ml of water in a saucepan.
2. Simmer the mixture at 100°c for 30 minutes to infuse the roots.
3. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a heat-resistant bowl to separate the solids.
4. Mix 200 grams of beeswax with 100 grams of coconut oil in a separate bowl.
5. Blend the infused liquid with the beeswax mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency.

2. Symphytum officinale

Symphytum officinale, also known as comfrey, creams helps with difficulty swallowing because it contains compounds that soothe and heal the mucous membranes in the throat and esophagus.

The anti-inflammatory properties in comfrey cream reduce swelling and pain, making it easier to swallow. Additionally, the cream's moisturizing effects help to protect and calm the irritated tissues, promoting a smooth passage of food and liquids.

This natural remedy can provide relief from the discomfort associated with difficulty swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to soothe and protect mucous membranes, thereby reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Alkaloids: The alkaloids present in Symphytum officinale have anti-inflammatory and protective properties, which can help to reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Symphytum officinale creams possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the throat, thereby alleviating difficulty swallowing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make creams for difficulty swallowing.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high mucilage content, which provides soothing and protective effects on the mucous membranes.
• Roots: Roots are also used due to their high content of mucilage and other compounds that promote healing and reduce inflammation in the mucous membranes.
• Stems: Stems are used for their similar composition to leaves and roots, providing a rich source of mucilage and other beneficial compounds to aid in soothing difficulty swallowing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for difficulty swallowing.

1. Harvest fresh symphytum officinale leaves and flowers in the summer months when they are in full bloom.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 50 grams of dried symphytum officinale with 50 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of coconut oil.
4. Melt the combined mixture in a double boiler over low heat for 20 minutes.
5. Strain the cooled mixture through a cheesecloth and store in a cool dark place for later use.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with difficulty swallowing because it has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can calm irritated tissues in the throat and mouth.

The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like calcium and potassium, which can help to reduce swelling and promote healing. By reducing inflammation and soothing irritated tissues, aloe vera creams can help to make swallowing easier and more comfortable.

This can be especially beneficial for individuals with conditions like esophagitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Anthraquinones: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the esophagus, making it easier to swallow.
• Polysaccharides: The soothing and anti-inflammatory properties of polysaccharides in Aloe vera may help calm the esophageal lining and reduce discomfort associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Glycoproteins: Glycoproteins in Aloe vera may help protect and heal the mucous membranes of the esophagus, reducing irritation and discomfort that can contribute to difficulty swallowing.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Aloe vera contain a gel-like substance that can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Gel (from leaves): The gel is extracted from the leaves and used to create creams that provide a protective barrier for the throat and help reduce inflammation.
• Aloe vera extract (from leaves): Aloe vera extract is a concentrated form of the gel, which is often used in creams to provide instant relief from difficulty swallowing and throat irritation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Melt 1 cup of beeswax in a double boiler over low heat for 10 minutes.
2. Combine 1 cup of aloe vera gel with 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a bowl.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of vitamin e oil and 2 tablespoons of shea butter to the bowl.
4. Gradually add the melted beeswax mixture to the aloe vera mixture and stir until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into small containers and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.

4. Calendula officinalis

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

The cream's ability to reduce inflammation in the throat and mouth can help alleviate discomfort and irritation that may be contributing to difficulty swallowing. Additionally, calendula's moisturizing properties can help keep the mucous membranes healthy and hydrated, promoting smooth and effortless swallowing.

This can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing dry mouth, sore throats, or other conditions that affect the oral cavity.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenoids: They exhibit anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help calm the esophagus and reduce discomfort associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the esophagus, making it easier to swallow.
• Saponins: They have a protective and soothing effect on mucous membranes, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the esophagus, making it easier to swallow and reducing discomfort.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help to reduce discomfort and inflammation in the throat and mouth.
• Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to protect and soothe the mucous membranes in the throat and mouth.
• Seeds is not used, i've changed it to buds: They are used due to their potential to promote healing and reduce inflammation in the affected area, helping to alleviate difficulty swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers during the morning hours when they are at their peak potency.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to preserve their properties.
3. Create a calendula infusion by steeping 1 cup of dried flowers in 2 cups of oil for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then mix with 1 cup of beeswax and 1/2 cup of coconut oil.
5. Whip the mixture until it thickens and then pour into jars for storage and use.

5. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with difficulty swallowing because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have a calming effect on the muscles in the throat, reducing inflammation and spasms that can cause swallowing difficulties. Additionally, chamomile's ability to relax the nervous system can help alleviate anxiety and stress that may exacerbate difficulty swallowing.

This can lead to improved swallowing function and overall comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with difficulty swallowing by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can alleviate the spasms and tension associated with dysphagia.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe the throat and reduce irritation, making it easier to swallow.
• Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help calm the throat and reduce discomfort, making it easier to swallow and relieving dysphagia symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for difficulty swallowing.

• Flowers: The flowers of Matricaria chamomilla are commonly used due to their high concentration of apigenin, an anti-inflammatory compound that can help soothe digestive issues.
• Seeds: Matricaria chamomilla seeds are sometimes used, as they contain essential oils and other compounds that can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
• Leaves: Matricaria chamomilla leaves are occasionally used, as they are rich in flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help alleviate digestive discomfort and promote ease of swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers from a trusted source for optimal potency.
2. Infuse 2 cups of distilled water with 1 cup of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers for 4 hours.
3. Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a clear liquid.
4. Mix 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler to melt the wax.
5. Combine the infused liquid with the melted wax and oil mixture and whip until thickened.

6. Echinacea angustifolia

Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with difficulty swallowing because of its anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the throat and esophagus.

The cream's active compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid, work to reduce swelling and irritation, making it easier to swallow. Additionally, the cream's moisturizing effects help to protect and heal the mucous membranes, promoting a smoother and more comfortable swallowing experience.

This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for individuals experiencing difficulty swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing inflammation and discomfort that can contribute to difficulty swallowing.
• Alkaloids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Phenolic acids: These antioxidants help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the throat, promoting healing and reducing discomfort that can make swallowing difficult.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for difficulty swallowing.

• Roots: They contain compounds like alkylamides and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe the throat and esophagus.
• Roots: They also contain compounds like polysaccharides and glycoproteins, which may stimulate the immune system and help alleviate symptoms associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Roots: Additionally, roots of Echinacea angustifolia are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the mucous membranes in the throat and esophagus from oxidative stress and inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for difficulty swallowing.

1. Harvest 20 to 30 grams of dried echinacea angustifolia root and flowers at peak potency during flowering season.
2. Combine the harvested plant material with 50 milliliters of carrier oil such as jojoba oil in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture in a double boiler for 2 to 3 hours at 100 to 150 degrees fahrenheit to extract the plant's properties.
4. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids then mix it with 10 grams of beeswax and 5 grams of shea butter.
5. Whip the mixture using an electric mixer for 5 to 10 minutes until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency suitable for application.

7. Althaea officinalis

Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with difficulty swallowing because of its soothing and protective properties.

The mucilages present in the herb create a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and irritation that can cause discomfort while swallowing. This protective coating also helps to calm the throat and esophagus, making it easier to swallow.

Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Althaea officinalis can help to relax the muscles in the throat, further reducing difficulty swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: Mucilages help with difficulty swallowing by forming a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and discomfort in the throat, and facilitating the passage of food.
• Gallic acid: Gallic acid helps with difficulty swallowing by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling and pain in the throat, and promoting healing of the mucous membranes.
• Althea flavonoids: Althea flavonoids help with difficulty swallowing by possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the throat, promoting a smooth and comfortable swallowing process.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make creams for difficulty swallowing.

• Roots: The mucilaginous properties of Althaea officinalis roots help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes, making it easier to swallow.
• Stems: Like the roots, the stems of Althaea officinalis contain mucilages that can help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy mucous membrane.
• Leaves: The leaves of Althaea officinalis contain a high concentration of mucilage, which can help to protect and soothe the mucous membranes, making it easier to swallow.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Infuse 1 tablespoon of dried althaea officinalis root in 2 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes.
2. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl and discard the solids.
3. Combine 1/2 cup of infused liquid with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler or a heat-resistant bowl set over a pot of simmering water for 10 minutes.
5. Remove the bowl from the heat and let the mixture cool and thicken for 30 minutes before transferring it to an airtight container.

8. Ulmus rubra

Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, creams helps with difficulty swallowing because of its soothing and protective properties.

The mucilage in Ulmus rubra coats and calms the mucous membranes in the throat and esophagus, reducing inflammation and discomfort. This helps to relax the muscles involved in swallowing, allowing food and liquids to pass more easily. As a result, Ulmus rubra creams can provide relief from the symptoms of dysphagia, making it easier to eat and drink.

This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for individuals struggling with difficulty swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenoids: These compounds may help with difficulty swallowing by reducing inflammation and irritation in the throat, promoting a soothing environment for swallowing.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Ulmus rubra may aid in difficulty swallowing by exhibiting antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which can help prevent infections and promote healing in the throat.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids found in Ulmus rubra may contribute to easier swallowing by modulating the immune response and reducing oxidative stress in the throat, leading to a more comfortable swallowing experience.

Parts Used

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

• Barks: The barks of Ulmus rubra contain astringent properties, helping to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.
• Leaves: The leaves of Ulmus rubra are rich in astringent and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat.
• Roots: The roots of Ulmus rubra contain astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of dried red elm bark from mature trees at dawn or dusk in late summer.
2. Combine 1/2 cup of dried red elm bark with 1 quart of carrier oil in a double boiler.
3. Steep the mixture for 2-3 hours or overnight, then strain it through cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
4. Mix 1/4 cup of beeswax with 1/4 cup of shea butter and 2 tablespoons of vitamin e oil in a saucepan.
5. Combine the infused oil with the beeswax mixture and heat it gently, stirring until it reaches 120-140°f.

9. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with difficulty swallowing because of its unique antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The extract from the leaves of this ancient tree has been shown to improve blood flow and circulation, which may help to relax the muscles in the throat and esophagus, making it easier to swallow. By increasing oxygenation and reducing inflammation, Ginkgo biloba creams may also help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes, further alleviating swallowing difficulties.

This makes it a promising natural remedy for individuals experiencing dysphagia.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Bilobalide: Acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce swelling and pain in the throat muscles, making it easier to swallow.
• Flavonoids: Have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, making it more comfortable to swallow.
• Terpene lactones: Help to improve blood flow to the throat area, reducing inflammation and promoting healing, which can alleviate difficulty swallowing.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba, as they are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate swallowing difficulties.
• Seeds: Ginkgo seeds are also used in creams for difficulty swallowing due to their high content of ginkgolides, which are believed to have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba trees contain compounds that may help relax the muscles involved in swallowing, making it easier to swallow.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Sterilize all equipment and workspace to prevent contamination of the herbal cream.
2. Combine 100g of ginkgo biloba extract with 50g of jojoba oil and 20g of beeswax in a heat-resistant bowl.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes or until the beeswax has fully melted.
4. Add 10g of vitamin e oil and 5g of aloe vera gel to the mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into a sterilized container and let it cool and set for 30 minutes before use.

10. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with difficulty swallowing because of its soothing and calming properties.

The roots of the valerian plant contain valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the throat and esophagus. This relaxation can help to improve the coordination and timing of the swallowing process, making it easier to swallow food and liquids.

The cream's topical application allows it to directly target the affected area, providing quick relief from difficulty swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Valerenic acid: This sesquiterpene helps with difficulty swallowing by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, which can alleviate the spasmodic contractions of the esophagus muscles that contribute to swallowing difficulties.
• Valeranone: This valerane sesquiterpene has anxiolytic and antispasmodic properties, which can help reduce muscle contractions in the esophagus and make swallowing easier.
• Isovaleric acid: This short-chain fatty acid has anxiolytic and antispasmodic effects, which can help alleviate the anxiety and muscle spasms associated with difficulty swallowing, promoting a smoother and more efficient swallowing process.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Valerian roots are commonly used due to their high concentration of valerenic acids, which have sedative and relaxing properties that can help alleviate swallowing difficulties.
• Leaves: Valerian leaves are also used, as they contain similar compounds to the roots, which can help calm the muscles involved in swallowing and reduce discomfort.
• Roots: Valerian roots are used again, as they are rich in valerenic acids that can help relax the muscles and calm the nervous system, making it easier to swallow.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of dried root valeriana officinalis at the end of the flowering season for maximum potency.
2. Dry the harvested root in a warm place with good air circulation for 3-5 days.
3. Combine 10 grams of dried root valeriana officinalis with 10 grams of beeswax in a double boiler.
4. Steep the mixture in 50 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
5. Strain and whip the mixture with 10 grams of shea butter and 10 milliliters of vitamin e oil.

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

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

Slippery elm helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, while marshmallow root reduces inflammation and provides a protective barrier. Aloe vera's anti-inflammatory properties further aid in reducing discomfort and promoting healing.

This combination can be applied topically to the affected area to provide relief from difficulty swallowing and promote a smooth, pain-free swallowing experience.

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

Ailments similar to difficulty swallowing that are treated with herbal creams are various skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

These creams often contain soothing herbs like aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula, which calm inflammation and reduce itching and irritation.

Other ailments, such as minor burns, cuts, and scrapes, can also be treated with herbal creams that promote healing and reduce pain and discomfort.