10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Difficulty Swallowing

Herbal decoctions for difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, are a natural remedy that helps ease the discomfort and struggle associated with swallowing food or liquids.

These decoctions work by soothing and relaxing the throat muscles, reducing inflammation and spasms, and improving saliva production to aid in digestion. Examples of herbal decoctions that can help alleviate difficulty swallowing include slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root teas.

By sipping on these warm drinks, individuals with dysphagia can enjoy meals without pain or struggle, significantly improving their quality of life and overall well-being.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with difficulty swallowing because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that coats the mucous membranes in the throat, providing relief from irritation and discomfort. As a result, it reduces inflammation and swelling in the throat, making it easier to swallow.

Additionally, licorice decoctions help to relax the muscles in the throat, which can become tense and constricted due to difficulty swallowing, allowing for smoother passage of food and liquids.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenoids: These compounds help with difficulty swallowing by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the throat and esophagus, making it easier to swallow.
• Flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in the throat, making it easier to swallow and alleviate difficulty swallowing.
• Phenolic acids: These phenolic acids exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the mucous membranes in the throat and esophagus from damage, reducing inflammation and making it easier to swallow.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Used due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help relax the throat muscles.
• Leaves: Utilized for their ability to calm the throat and reduce inflammation, making it easier to swallow.
• Barks: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm the throat and promote easier swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 2-4 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and thoroughly clean them with water.
2. Cut the roots into small pieces and steep them in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a container and discard the solids.
4. Allow the decoction to cool down to room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
5. Store the cooled decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in airtight containers.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with difficulty swallowing because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and relax the muscles in the esophagus, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

Additionally, ginger's warming effect can help stimulate saliva production, which can help lubricate food as it passes through the throat, making it easier to swallow.

This gentle and non-invasive remedy can provide relief for those experiencing dysphagia, a condition characterized by difficulty swallowing, allowing them to eat and drink with greater comfort and ease.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory and relaxant properties that help ease the discomfort and pain associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, particularly 6-shogaol, have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation in the throat and esophagus, making it easier to swallow.
• Zingerone: Zingerone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, which can contribute to difficulty swallowing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for difficulty swallowing.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate swallowing difficulties.
• Roots: Roots of Zingiber officinale are also widely used, as they contain compounds that help relax the muscles in the throat and promote smooth swallowing.
• Stems: Stems of Zingiber officinale, although less commonly mentioned, may be used due to their potential ability to help regulate digestion and alleviate swallowing difficulties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Clean 10-15 fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes thoroughly with cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Peel the cleaned rhizomes using a vegetable peeler to expose the inner flesh of the plant.
3. Chop the peeled rhizomes into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase their surface area.
4. Boil 250ml of water in a saucepan over high heat for 5-7 minutes or until it reaches a rolling boil.
5. Steep the chopped zingiber officinale in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.

3. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint decoctions helps with difficulty swallowing because of its natural soothing properties.

The menthol in peppermint oil relaxes the muscles in the esophagus, making it easier to swallow and reducing discomfort associated with dysphagia. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory compounds in peppermint help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat and esophagus, further alleviating swallowing difficulties.

As a result, drinking a warm peppermint decoction can provide quick relief from difficulty swallowing and promote a smoother, more comfortable eating experience.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Menthol acts as a local anesthetic and relaxant, helping to ease muscle spasms and inflammation in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Menthone: Menthone has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, allowing for smoother and more comfortable swallowing.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect the mucous membranes in the throat from damage and inflammation, promoting easier and more comfortable swallowing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for difficulty swallowing.

• Leaves: Used due to their high menthol content, which can help relax the muscles involved in swallowing and ease discomfort.
• Stems: Utilized for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce throat irritation and improve swallowing.
• Roots: Employed for their antispasmodic properties, which can help soothe muscle spasms in the throat and facilitate easier swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers for a standard decoction.
2. Chop the harvested mentha x piperita into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped mentha x piperita with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan.
4. Boil the mixture for 5-7 minutes to extract the bioactive compounds from the plant material.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the plant residue.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with difficulty swallowing because its soothing properties calm the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing inflammation and irritation that can impede the passage of food.

The anti-inflammatory compounds in chamomile also help to relax the muscles in the esophagus, making it easier for food and liquids to move smoothly through the digestive tract.

As a natural remedy, chamomile decoctions provide gentle and effective relief from swallowing difficulties, promoting a more comfortable and effortless eating experience.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as a relaxant for smooth muscle tissues, which helps to reduce spasms in the throat and esophagus, making swallowing easier.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat and esophagus, alleviating discomfort and difficulty swallowing.
• Matricine: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help calm irritated tissues in the throat and esophagus, making swallowing more comfortable.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used due to their soothing and calming properties that help to relax the muscles involved in swallowing.
• Leaves: They are used because of their anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat.
• Roots: They are used due to their ability to provide a calming effect and help to reduce anxiety, which can contribute to difficulty swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 30-40 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and store in an airtight container.
2. Measure 250-500 milliliters of boiling water and pour it over the dried flowers.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes and then strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
4. Discard the solids and transfer the liquid to a clean glass container for storage.
5. Refrigerate the decoction for up to 24 hours before serving and consume 2-3 times a day.

5. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel decoctions helps with difficulty swallowing because of its natural relaxant properties.

The herb's active compounds, such as flavonoids and terpenes, help to soothe the muscles in the throat and esophagus, reducing spasms and inflammation that can cause discomfort or pain when swallowing. As a result, fennel decoctions can provide relief for individuals experiencing dysphagia, a condition characterized by difficulty moving food from the mouth to the stomach.

By promoting smooth muscle relaxation, fennel may help to alleviate symptoms and improve overall swallowing function.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Anethole: Anethole has anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce stress and inflammation in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Foeniculin: Foeniculin is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing discomfort and making swallowing easier.
• Trans-anethole: Trans-anethole has a relaxing effect on smooth muscle, including the muscles in the throat, which can help alleviate spasms and cramps that may be contributing to difficulty swallowing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for difficulty swallowing.

• Seeds: Used due to their carminative and antispasmodic properties that help relax the muscles involved in swallowing.
• Leaves: Employed for their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help ease discomfort and pain associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Roots: Utilized for their expectorant properties, which can help loosen and clear mucus from the throat, making it easier to swallow.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the foeniculum vulgare roots and rhizomes in the fall season when they are fully mature.
2. Wash the roots and rhizomes thoroughly with cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Chop the foeniculum vulgare roots and rhizomes into small pieces weighing 20 grams per 250 milliliters of water.
4. Boil the chopped foeniculum vulgare in 250 milliliters of water for 10 to 15 minutes to make the decoction.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove any solids and discard the solids.

6. Malva sylvestris

Mallow decoctions helps with difficulty swallowing because its soothing properties calm inflamed mucous membranes in the esophagus, allowing for easier passage of food.

The extract's demulcent nature forms a protective barrier that shields the delicate tissues from irritation and abrasion, reducing discomfort and pain associated with swallowing.

As a result, mallow decoctions provide relief to individuals experiencing dysphagia, making it an effective natural remedy for those struggling with this common condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Malva sylvestris decoctions that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Phenolic acids: Help with difficulty swallowing by reducing inflammation and soothing mucous membranes, which can become irritated and swollen, leading to swallowing discomfort.
• Mucilages: Help with difficulty swallowing by forming a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing friction and inflammation, and promoting healing of irritated tissues.
• Flavonoids: Help with difficulty swallowing by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat and mouth, making swallowing easier.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mallow used to make decoctions for difficulty swallowing.

• Leaves: The leaves of Malva sylvestris are commonly used in decoctions for difficulty swallowing due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots of Malva sylvestris are used in decoctions for their demulcent properties, which help to protect and soothe the mucous membranes.
• Flowers: The flowers of Malva sylvestris are used in decoctions for their anti-inflammatory and emollient properties, which help to calm and soothe the digestive tract.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried malva sylvestris flowers or 3-4 teaspoons of fresh leaves and flowers.
2. Combine the gathered herb with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup or teapot.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the herb's active compounds to infuse into the water.
4. Strain the liquid using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any remaining herb particles.
5. Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before serving or storing it in the refrigerator.

7. Symphytum officinale

Comfrey decoctions helps with difficulty swallowing because of its soothing and mucilaginous properties.

The allantoin in comfrey has been shown to reduce inflammation and irritation in the esophagus, making it a natural remedy for conditions such as dysphagia. Additionally, the saponins in comfrey help to lubricate and protect the mucous membranes lining the esophagus, easing the passage of food and liquids.

This combination of anti-inflammatory and protective properties makes comfrey decoctions a popular natural treatment for alleviating difficulty swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Allantoin: It helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mucous membranes, making it easier to swallow.
• Alkaloids: They have a soothing effect on the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and discomfort, which can make swallowing easier.
• Tannins: They have astringent properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and tighten the mucous membranes, making it easier to swallow and reducing the sensation of difficulty.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Symphytum officinale are commonly used to make decoctions for difficulty swallowing due to their anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe mucous membranes.
• Leaves: The leaves of Symphytum officinale are used to make decoctions for difficulty swallowing due to their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in relieving respiratory issues.
• Flowers: The flowers of Symphytum officinale are used to make decoctions for difficulty swallowing due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects that calm irritated mucous membranes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Measure out 5-7 grams of dried root or 20-30 grams of fresh root material for the decoction.
2. Combine the measured root material with 1 quart of water in a saucepan over medium heat.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to a low simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool before storing it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

8. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow decoctions helps with difficulty swallowing because they provide soothing relief to irritated mucous membranes in the throat and mouth.

The mucilages present in marshmallows, such as galactomannans, form a protective coating that shields the sensitive tissues from inflammation and irritation, allowing for smoother swallowing.

Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of marshmallow decoctions help to reduce swelling and pain associated with conditions like sore throats and esophagitis, making it easier to swallow food and liquids.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: Mucilages help with difficulty swallowing by soothing and protecting the mucous membranes of the throat and esophagus, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with swallowing.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, particularly pectin and galactans, contribute to the soothing properties of Althaea officinalis decoctions by forming a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and discomfort.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate the inflammation and irritation associated with difficulty swallowing, while also promoting the healing and regeneration of damaged mucous membranes.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are used because they contain high concentrations of mucilages that soothe and protect the mucous membranes, making it easier to swallow.
• Leaves: The leaves are used because they also contain mucilages that have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce irritation in the throat and esophagus.
• Stems: The stems are used because they can be used to prepare a decoction that is rich in mucilages, helping to calm and protect the mucous membranes in the throat and esophagus.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 2 to 4 grams of dried root of this soothing herb in a clean bowl.
2. Combine the root with 1 liter of boiling water in a saucepan.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
5. Drink the warm decoction immediately and repeat as needed up to 3 times a day.

9. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with difficulty swallowing because it is rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and mucilages that soothe and protect the mucous membranes of the esophagus and digestive tract.

The decoction's demulcent properties create a protective barrier that shields the delicate tissues from irritation and inflammation, allowing food to pass smoothly through the throat. Additionally, dandelion's bitter principles stimulate digestion and improve appetite, further alleviating swallowing difficulties.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to gently ease digestive discomfort and restore normal swallowing function.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Inulin: A type of fructan that acts as a natural prebiotic, helping to regulate gut microbiota and improve digestion, which can alleviate swallowing difficulties caused by gastrointestinal issues.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat and esophagus, making it easier to swallow.
• Taraxasterol and other triterpenoid saponins: These saponins may have a soothing effect on the mucous membranes in the throat and esophagus, reducing inflammation and discomfort, and making it easier to swallow.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for difficulty swallowing.

• Roots: The roots are often used due to their high concentration of inulin, a natural sweetener and prebiotic that may help soothe digestive issues.
• Leaves: The leaves are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which may aid in reducing discomfort and swelling associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Stems: The stems of Taraxacum officinale are also used due to their ability to act as a natural demulcent, coating and soothing the mucous membranes to alleviate discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25-30 fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers from a clean and pesticide-free area.
2. Wash the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers thoroughly with cold filtered water.
3. Combine 1-2 teaspoons of the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers with 1 liter of boiling water.
4. Steep the taraxacum officinale mixture for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid has cooled slightly.
5. Strain the taraxacum officinale decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

10. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with difficulty swallowing because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe the mucous membranes in the throat.

The decoction's antibacterial properties also help to combat infections that can cause sore throats and inflammation, making it easier to swallow. Additionally, Kansas coneflower has natural antacid properties that help neutralize stomach acid, reducing irritation and discomfort in the esophagus and allowing for smoother swallowing.

By addressing these underlying issues, Kansas coneflower decoctions provide relief from difficulty swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly those like kaempferol and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to protect the throat from irritation and promote healing, making swallowing more comfortable.
• Phenylethanoid glycosides: Phenylethanoid glycosides, such as echinacoside, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help to reduce swelling and pain in the throat, making it easier to swallow.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of inulin, which can help soothe the digestive system and alleviate difficulty swallowing.
• Leaves: Leaves are also used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the throat and promote healing.
• Flowers: Although less commonly used than roots, Echinacea angustifolia flowers have been used to create decoctions that may aid in soothing the throat and reducing discomfort associated with difficulty swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather echinacea angustifolia roots weighing about 2 to 4 grams or 1 to 2 teaspoons.
2. Dry the roots by spreading them out in a single layer on a tray for 2 weeks.
3. Combine the dried roots with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let the decoction simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to release the medicinal compounds.
5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids then let it cool before drinking.

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

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with difficulty swallowing is a blend of Slippery Elm, Licorice Root, and Marshmallow Root.

Slippery Elm coats the esophagus with a protective mucilage, while Licorice Root soothes inflammation and irritation. Marshmallow Root adds further soothing properties, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. These herbs work synergistically to calm the digestive tract, reduce discomfort, and promote easy swallowing.

This combination can be made into a decoction by steeping the herbs in hot water for 5-7 minutes.

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

Ailments similar to difficulty swallowing that are treated with herbal decoctions are various digestive disorders, such as dysphagia, indigestion, and chronic gastritis.

Herbal decoctions made from herbs like slippery elm, marshmallow root, licorice root, and ginger have been traditionally used to soothe irritated mucous membranes in the esophagus and digestive tract, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

These decoctions may also help alleviate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).