10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Difficulty Swallowing

Herbal tinctures for difficulty swallowing are liquid extracts made from plant-based ingredients that have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of dysphagia, a condition characterized by trouble swallowing food and liquids.

These tinctures help relax the muscles in the throat, improving the passage of food and fluids, making eating and drinking easier and more enjoyable. For example, licorice root and slippery elm tinctures can soothe and calm the esophagus, while marshmallow root tincture can provide extra lubrication to facilitate smooth swallowing.

With these herbal tinctures, individuals with dysphagia can regain their independence in mealtime and enjoy a better quality of life.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with difficulty swallowing because of its soothing properties that calm inflammation in the throat and esophagus.

The tincture's active compounds, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, have anti-inflammatory effects that reduce redness and swelling, making it easier to swallow. Additionally, licorice root has been shown to strengthen the mucous membranes in the throat, protecting them from further irritation and damage.

This natural remedy can provide relief from chronic swallowing difficulties, allowing individuals to eat and drink with greater ease.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps to soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing inflammation and irritation that may contribute to difficulty swallowing.
• Liquiritin: A phenolic glycoside, liquiritin has anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Liquorice flavonoids: These flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to protect the mucous membranes in the throat from oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting a smooth and effortless swallowing.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that can help soothe the throat and reduce inflammation, making it easier to swallow.
• Leaves: They also contain glycyrrhizin and other compounds that may help to relax the muscles in the throat, facilitating easier swallowing.
• Barks: The bark of Glycyrrhiza glabra contains glycyrrhizin and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and soothe the throat, making it easier to swallow.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest glycyrrhiza glabra roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is at its peak potency.
2. Wash the roots thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris present.
3. Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
4. Steep 250 grams of the chopped roots in 750 milliliters of 35% ethanol for 2 weeks.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with difficulty swallowing because its anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing irritation and discomfort.

The tincture's natural lubricants also help to moisturize the esophagus and trachea, making it easier for food and liquids to pass through. Additionally, aloe's antioxidants help protect the delicate tissues of the throat from damage, promoting healthy healing and recovery.

As a result, herbal aloe tinctures can provide effective relief from difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Anthraquinones: Anthraquinones, specifically aloin and aloe-emodin, have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that may help reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat and esophagus, making it easier to swallow.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including aloin and barbaloin, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect the mucous membranes in the throat and esophagus from damage, reducing discomfort and difficulty swallowing.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly kaempferol and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the throat and esophagus, making it easier to swallow and relieving discomfort.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Aloe vera leaves contain gel and latex, which are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that can help soothe and calm the throat and digestive tract, making it easier to swallow.
• Rhyzomes: Aloe vera rhyzomes contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the throat and digestive system, alleviating difficulty swallowing.
• Gel (from leaves): Aloe vera gel contains anti-inflammatory and soothing compounds that can help calm and protect the mucous membranes in the throat and digestive tract, making it easier to swallow.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100 grams of fresh aloe vera leaf and wash it gently under cold running water.
2. Chop the aloe vera leaf into small pieces and combine it with 500 milliliters of 80 proof ethanol.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 days to allow the aloe vera to infuse into the ethanol.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container to remove the aloe vera solids.
5. Store the tincture in the refrigerator and allow it to mature for at least 30 days before using it.

3. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with difficulty swallowing because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal extract, Echinacea angustifolia, has been traditionally used to calm digestive issues, including sore throats and swollen tonsils that can make it hard to swallow. By reducing inflammation and discomfort in the throat and mouth, Kansas coneflower tinctures can help alleviate symptoms of dysphagia, allowing individuals to eat and drink more comfortably.

Its anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce swelling and pain, promoting a smoother swallowing process.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help reduce inflammation in the throat and promote healing, which can ease difficulty swallowing.
• Alkylamides: Alkylamides have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which could contribute to the relief of swallowing difficulties by reducing inflammation and promoting a balanced immune response.
• Cichoric acid: Cichoric acid is a phenolic compound that may help reduce inflammation and improve wound healing, potentially alleviating difficulty swallowing by promoting a healthy environment in the throat.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Echinacea angustifolia roots are primarily used due to their high concentration of echinacoside, an alkaloid that has anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate difficulty swallowing.
• Leaves: Echinacea angustifolia leaves are also commonly used for tincture production, as they contain various bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, that contribute to the herb's medicinal properties.
• Flowers: Echinacea angustifolia flowers are used in tincture production for their rich content of alkaloids, including echinacoside, which has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that may aid in alleviating difficulty swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh echinacea angustifolia roots or 2 parts of dried roots in late summer.
2. Chop the echinacea roots into small pieces and add them to a clean glass jar.
3. Fill the jar with 80 proof vodka covering the roots and seal it tightly with a lid.
4. Place the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking it daily for 10 minutes.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

4. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with difficulty swallowing because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes in the throat.

The herbal extract also exhibits expectorant qualities, helping to loosen and clear mucus and phlegm that can contribute to swallowing difficulties.

Additionally, pot marigold's antioxidant-rich profile supports overall digestive health, promoting a healthy gut-throat connection and alleviating discomfort associated with swallowing issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Carotenoids: Carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the throat, alleviating discomfort and making swallowing easier.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, including oleanolic acid, have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that can reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat, thereby facilitating swallowing.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce discomfort and inflammation in the throat and mouth associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Leaves: They are used because of their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues in the mouth and throat.
• Seeds: They are used due to their purported soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, although less is known about their use compared to the flowers and leaves.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the fresh calendula flowers in the morning when the dew is still present on the plant.
2. Dry the flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks or until they are completely dry.
3. Use a 1:2 ratio of dried calendula flowers to 95% ethanol as the solvent and combine them in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar every day to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discard the solids.

5. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with difficulty swallowing because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the throat.

This can help to reduce inflammation and irritation that may be causing the difficulty swallowing. Additionally, the tincture's expectorant properties can help to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, further alleviating symptoms.

As a result, many people find that using maidenhair tree tinctures helps to improve their ability to swallow and eases discomfort associated with this condition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: They improve blood circulation to the throat and esophagus, enhancing swallowing function by reducing inflammation and promoting healthy tissue repair.
• Terpenoids: They have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling in the throat and esophagus, making it easier to swallow food and liquids.
• Ginkgolides: They have antioxidant properties that help protect the esophagus and throat from oxidative damage, promoting healthy swallowing function and reducing inflammation.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are the most commonly used part due to their high flavonoid and terpenoid content, which are believed to aid in improving circulation and facilitating swallowing.
• Seeds: The seeds contain unique compounds such as bilobalide and ginkgolides, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate difficulty swallowing.
• Barks: The barks of the Ginkgo biloba tree may be used in tinctures due to their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which could help soothe the throat and promote easier swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25-50 ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has dried to ensure optimal potency.
2. Dry the ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to prevent degradation.
3. Combine 100g of the dried ginkgo biloba with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass container to create the tincture base.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the container daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, and discard the solids.

6. Ulmus rubra

Slippery elm tinctures helps with difficulty swallowing because of its unique mucilaginous properties.

When taken internally, it forms a protective coating that soothes and lubricates the mucous membranes in the throat and esophagus, making it easier for food and liquids to pass through. This can be especially beneficial for individuals experiencing conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inflammatory bowel disease, or post-radiation therapy.

By reducing inflammation and irritation, slippery elm tinctures can help restore normal swallowing function and alleviate discomfort associated with difficulty swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as gallic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing discomfort associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, like quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate swelling and irritation in the throat, making it easier to swallow food and liquids.

Parts Used

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

• Barks: Ulmus rubra's bark is used to make tinctures for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could aid in soothing digestive issues, including difficulty swallowing.
• Leaves: The leaves of Ulmus rubra are used to make tinctures for their potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which could help soothe digestive issues, including difficulty swallowing.
• Roots: Ulmus rubra's roots are used to make tinctures for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could aid in soothing digestive issues, including difficulty swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh red elm leaves and twigs on a dry sunny day.
2. Cut the plant material into small pieces and dry them in a single layer for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Use a coffee grinder to powder 1/4 cup of dried red elm material.
4. Steep 1 cup of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar with 2 tablespoons of powdered red elm for 2 to 6 weeks.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids, transferring the tincture to a dark glass bottle.

7. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with difficulty swallowing because its mucilages soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, making it easier to swallow.

The herb's demulcent properties create a protective barrier that shields the delicate tissues from irritation and inflammation, reducing discomfort and pain associated with difficulty swallowing. Additionally, marshmallow tincture's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling in the throat, allowing for smoother passage of food and liquids.

This natural remedy can provide relief from swallowing difficulties caused by conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or postnasal drip.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, making it easier to swallow by reducing inflammation and irritation.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the throat, making it more comfortable to swallow.
• Althaea polysaccharide-derived mucilage: This gel-like substance forms a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, providing relief from dryness, irritation, and discomfort that can make swallowing difficult.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.
• Leaves: The leaves are used as a secondary source of mucilage, which can also help to calm and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.
• Stems: The stems of Althaea officinalis also contain mucilage, although in smaller amounts than the roots, and can be used in tincture form to aid in difficulty swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh roots of althaea officinalis in early spring when plant is in bloom for 2 weeks.
2. Dry the roots at 40 degree celsius for 2 hours using a food dehydrator to preserve them.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces and mix with 2 parts of 95 alcohol in a jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking the jar every 2 days.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

8. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme tinctures helps with difficulty swallowing because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the esophagus and throat.

The herb's expectorant qualities also help to loosen mucus and reduce congestion, making it easier for food and liquids to pass through. Additionally, thyme's antibacterial and antiviral properties can help combat infections that may be contributing to swallowing difficulties.

By reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy environment in the esophagus and throat, thyme tinctures can provide relief from this uncomfortable condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris tinctures that help with difficulty swallowing.

• Thymol: Thymol, a phenolic monoterpene, has antispasmodic properties that can help relax the muscles in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a phenolic monoterpene, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation and infection in the throat, which can contribute to difficulty swallowing.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic acid, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the throat, making it easier to swallow and reducing discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make tinctures for difficulty swallowing.

• Leaves: The leaves of Thymus vulgaris are used to make tinctures for difficulty swallowing due to their high concentration of thymol, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Buds: The buds of Thymus vulgaris are used to make tinctures for difficulty swallowing due to their high concentration of essential oils, which can help to stimulate the digestive system and relieve swelling.
• Roots: The roots of Thymus vulgaris are used to make tinctures for difficulty swallowing due to their high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote digestion.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 250g of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers on a dry sunny morning.
2. Clean the herb with a soft brush to remove dirt and debris gently.
3. Chop the thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers into small pieces using a sharp knife.
4. Steep 250g of chopped thymus vulgaris in 1l of 45% ethanol for 2 weeks in a glass jar.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a separate container and discard the solids completely.

9. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with difficulty swallowing because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the throat tissues.

The warming sensation it provides can help relax the muscles in the esophagus, allowing for easier passage of food and liquids. Additionally, ginger's natural expectorant properties can help loosen and clear out mucus and other debris that may be contributing to swallowing difficulties.

As a result, ginger tinctures can provide significant relief from dysphagia, making eating and drinking a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerol: Gingerol helps with difficulty swallowing by relaxing the muscles in the throat and reducing inflammation, allowing for smoother passage of food and liquids.
• Shogaol: Shogaol, a bioactive compound in ginger, aids in difficulty swallowing by reducing inflammation and pain in the esophagus and throat, making it easier to swallow food and liquids.
• Zingerone: Zingerone, a ginger-derived compound, helps with difficulty swallowing by reducing inflammation and modulating the nervous system, which can help alleviate swallowing difficulties and associated symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: Used for their anti-inflammatory and digestive properties to alleviate swallowing difficulties.
• Roots: Utilized for their carminative and antispasmodic properties to soothe and relax the throat muscles.
• Buds: Employed for their expectorant and warming properties to help relieve congestion and promote smooth swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh zingiber officinale roots in the early morning after the dew has evaporated and before the heat of day sets in.
2. Wash the harvested roots under cold running water to remove dirt and debris thoroughly then dry them with clean towels.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces weighing about 50 grams then combine them with 50 percent vodka by volume in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking it gently every day to facilitate extraction of the active compounds.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids and label the tincture.

10. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with difficulty swallowing because of its natural ability to relax the muscles in the throat and esophagus.

The menthol content in peppermint tincture helps to calm down any inflammation or spasms that may be causing discomfort while swallowing, making it easier for food and liquids to pass through.

Additionally, the cooling sensation provided by peppermint can also help to soothe an irritated throat, further reducing difficulty swallowing and promoting a smooth passage of food and liquids.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Menthol helps with difficulty swallowing by providing a local anesthetic effect on the throat and esophageal lining, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with swallowing.
• Menthone: Menthone has a relaxing effect on the smooth muscle of the esophagus, making it easier to swallow by reducing spasms and promoting a smooth passage of food.
• Cineole: Cineole has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, making it easier to swallow by decreasing discomfort and pain.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Used to make tinctures for difficulty swallowing due to their high menthol content, which helps relax the muscles in the throat.
• Buds: Used to make tinctures for difficulty swallowing due to their concentration of menthol and other volatile oils that ease swallowing.
• Leaves: Used to make tinctures for difficulty swallowing due to their anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling in the throat.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves in the early morning to capture optimal essential oil content.
2. Chop 1 part of the leaves by weight into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped leaves with 2 parts of 95% ethanol by weight in a clean glass container.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids to produce a tincture.

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

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

Slippery Elm soothes and protects the mucous membranes in the throat, while Licorice Root reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Marshmallow Root, with its anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties, coats and calms the throat, making it easier to swallow.

This combination can be taken 2-3 times a day, mixed with water or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.

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

Ailments similar to difficulty swallowing that are treated with herbal tinctures are those affecting the esophagus, such as acid reflux, heartburn, and esophagitis.

Herbal remedies like slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root can soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat and esophagus, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with these conditions.