By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Sour Taste In Mouth
Herbal decoctions for sour taste in mouth are a natural remedy that helps alleviate the unpleasant sensation of a sour or acidic taste in the mouth.
This phenomenon can be caused by various factors such as digestive issues, dry mouth, or hormonal changes. Herbal decoctions work by neutralizing the acidity and balancing the pH levels in the mouth. For example, ginger decoction has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe an irritated tongue and palate, while peppermint decoction freshens breath and reduces inflammation.
By incorporating these herbal decoctions into daily routine, individuals can enjoy improved oral health, increased confidence in their smile, and a more pleasant overall sense of well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for sour taste in mouth, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Mentha x piperita
- 3. Salvia officinalis
- 4. Zingiber officinale
- 5. Cymbopogon citratus
- 6. Matricaria chamomilla
- 7. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 8. Foeniculum vulgare
- 9. Echinacea angustifolia
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for sour taste in mouth?
- What ailments similar to sour taste in mouth are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with sour taste in mouth because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
When consumed as a warm decoction, licorice root can help to reduce the inflammation of the tongue and gums, which is often responsible for the sensation of sourness in the mouth. Additionally, licorice's antibacterial properties can help to eliminate bacteria that may be contributing to bad breath and a sour taste.
By soothing and balancing the oral environment, licorice decoctions can bring relief from a sour-tasting mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with sour taste in mouth.
- Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions help with sour taste in mouth by reducing the bacterial load in the oral cavity, which contributes to the sour taste.
- Licoricidin: Licoricidin, also known as glycyrrhizin, helps with sour taste in mouth by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause oral infections, thereby reducing the sour taste.
- Flavonoids: Isoflavones in Glycyrrriza glabra decoctions help with sour taste in mouth by possessing antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the bacterial load and inflammation in the oral cavity, contributing to a decrease in sour taste.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for sour taste in mouth.
- Roots: They are used to make decoctions as they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and alleviate sour taste.
- Leaves: They are used to make decoctions as they contain flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties and help soothe the mouth.
- Barks: They are used to make decoctions as they contain glycosides and flavonoids that help reduce inflammation and alleviate sour taste.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for sour taste in mouth.
- Gather 15-30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots for the decoction preparation.
- Crush the dried roots into smaller pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Combine the crushed roots with 1 liter of distilled water in a heat-resistant container.
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
2. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint decoctions helps with sour taste in mouth because it stimulates saliva production, which helps to neutralize acidic substances that cause a sour sensation.
The menthol content in peppermint also helps to numb the tongue and palate, reducing the perception of sourness. Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, further alleviating symptoms of sour taste.
By soothing and calming the oral cavity, herbal peppermint decoctions provide natural relief from a sour taste in the mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with sour taste in mouth.
- Limonene: Limonene, a terpene present in peppermint, may help reduce acidity and alleviate sour taste by its potential ability to reduce the concentration of hydrogen ions in the mouth.
- Menthol: Menthol, a terpene in peppermint, may help counteract sour taste by numbing the taste buds and altering the perception of sourness through its analgesic and anesthetic properties.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound in peppermint, may help reduce inflammation and alleviate sour taste by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and protect the oral mucosa.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for sour taste in mouth.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used to make decoctions due to their high content of menthol and menthone, which can help neutralize acidity and soothe the mouth.
- Stems: Stems are used to make decoctions to relieve a sour taste in the mouth due to their menthol content, which helps to numb the area and reduce discomfort.
- Roots: Roots are used to make decoctions to alleviate a sour taste in the mouth due to their high content of sesquiterpenes, which can help to balance the pH of the mouth and reduce acidity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for sour taste in mouth.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh mentha x piperita leaves or 10 grams of dried material in late morning.
- Chop the harvested mentha x piperita into small pieces to release oils and flavors quickly.
- Combine the chopped mentha x piperita with 1 liter of boiling water to create decoction.
- Reduce heat and simmer the decoction for 5-10 minutes to extract the essential oils gently.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container immediately.
3. Salvia officinalis
Sage decoctions helps with sour taste in mouth because of its unique ability to balance the pH levels in the mouth.
The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation and irritation on the tongue and palate, which can cause a sour or bitter taste. Additionally, sage's antimicrobial properties can eliminate bad bacteria that contribute to sourness.
By soothing and calming the mouth tissues, sage decoctions can restore a fresh and clean sensation, leaving your mouth feeling smooth and pleasant once again.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis decoctions that help with sour taste in mouth.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound that acts as an antioxidant and free radical scavenger, helping to reduce inflammation and neutralize the causes of sour taste.
- Salvianolic acid a: A polyphenolic compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and calm the oral mucosa, reducing the sensation of sour taste.
- Carvacrol: A monoterpenic phenol with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to eliminate the causative organisms and reduce inflammation that contribute to sour taste in the mouth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make decoctions for sour taste in mouth.
- Leaves: Leaves: The leaves of Salvia officinalis are the most commonly used part to make decoctions, as they contain high amounts of essential oils and flavonoids, which help to stimulate digestion and relieve a sour taste in the mouth.
- Stems: Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis are sometimes used to make decoctions, as they are rich in fiber and can help to soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating a sour taste in the mouth.
- Roots: Roots: The roots of Salvia officinalis are also used to make decoctions, as they contain a rich source of glycosides and other compounds that help to stimulate digestion and relieve a sour taste in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for sour taste in mouth.
- Harvest 10-20 fresh leaves of salvia officinalis in the morning for optimal potency and flavor.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a warm and well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks or until crispy.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried salvia officinalis leaves per cup of boiling water.
- Steep the dried leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release the herbal properties.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth and discard the solids.
4. Zingiber officinale
Ginger decoctions helps with sour taste in mouth because it contains natural compounds that have potent antibacterial properties.
The decoction's active ingredients, such as gingerols and shogaols, can help to eliminate bacteria and other microorganisms that may be contributing to the sour taste. Additionally, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing irritation and inflammation that can lead to a sour taste.
By balancing the body's pH levels and combating infection, ginger decoctions can help to alleviate a sour taste in the mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with sour taste in mouth.
- Gingerols: These iridoid compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi in the mouth that contribute to sour taste.
- Shogaols: These ginger-derived compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the mouth, thereby alleviating sour taste.
- Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has antioxidant properties, which can help protect the mouth from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, potentially reducing sour taste.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for sour taste in mouth.
- Rhyzomes: The most commonly used part of Zingiber officinale, rhyzomes are used for decoctions due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that help to neutralize the sour taste.
- Roots: Roots of Zingiber officinale are also used for decoctions to relieve sour taste, as they contain similar bioactive compounds found in the rhyzomes.
- Barks: Barks of Zingiber officinale are occasionally used for decoctions to alleviate sour taste, though they may be less potent than rhyzomes or roots.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for sour taste in mouth.
- Gather fresh or dried zingiber officinale root and choose a clean glass pot.
- Measure 1-2 teaspoons of zingiber officinale root per 8 ounces of water.
- Combine the root with water in the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction and discard the root solids.
5. Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass decoctions helps with sour taste in mouth because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's citrusy flavor and aroma help to neutralize the acidity and reduce the bacteria that can cause bad breath, gum inflammation, and a sour or bitter taste. Additionally, lemongrass has a soothing effect on the digestive system, which can alleviate symptoms such as heartburn and indigestion that may contribute to a sour mouth sensation.
By promoting healthy oral and gastrointestinal function, lemongrass decoctions provide a natural solution for a sour-tasting mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus decoctions that help with sour taste in mouth.
- Citral: Citral has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help reduce the bacterial growth in the mouth, thereby alleviating sour taste caused by bacterial infections.
- Geraniol: Geraniol has antioxidant and antifungal properties that help prevent the growth of fungi that can cause oral infections, contributing to a sour taste in the mouth.
- Limonene: Limonene has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth, which can cause sour taste and other oral health issues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make decoctions for sour taste in mouth.
- Leaves: Cymbopogon citratus leaves are commonly used because they contain citral and other compounds that help to neutralize acidity and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
- Stems: The stems of Cymbopogon citratus are used because they contain a high amount of citral and other compounds that can help to reduce acidity and inflammation in the mouth, promoting a healthy oral environment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for sour taste in mouth.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh cymbopogon citratus leaves and stems from a clean area.
- Chop the harvested material into small pieces to release the oils and flavor.
- Boil 1 liter of water in a pot and add the chopped cymbopogon citratus.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes to extract the herbal properties.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a separate container to remove the solids.
6. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile decoctions helps with sour taste in mouth because it contains apigenin, an antioxidant that soothes and calms the mucous membranes in the mouth.
This gentle soothing action reduces inflammation and irritation, which can cause a sour or bitter taste. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties also help to alleviate any underlying oral infections or conditions that may be contributing to the sour taste.
By reducing inflammation and discomfort, chamomile decoctions provide fast and effective relief from a sour mouth sensation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with sour taste in mouth.
- Apigenin: As a flavonoid with antioxidant properties, apigenin helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the oral mucosa, potentially alleviating sour taste.
- Furanocoumarins: These phenolic compounds exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, which can help control the growth of bacteria that may contribute to a sour taste in the mouth.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with a sour taste in the mouth, such as mouth ulcers or soreness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for sour taste in mouth.
- Flowers: The flowers are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the mouth.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate sour taste in the mouth.
- Seeds: The seeds are used as they contain flavonoids, which may help to neutralize the sour taste and provide a soothing effect.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for sour taste in mouth.
- Measure 1 teaspoon of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers for a decoction.
- Combine the measured flowers with 2 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat then reduce to low heat.
- Simmer the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to release the herbal properties.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a separate container.
7. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary decoctions helps with sour taste in mouth because of its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's essential oils, such as camphor and borneol, work to combat oral bacteria that can cause bad breath and a lingering sour taste. Additionally, rosemary's antioxidant compounds help reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, which can also contribute to an unpleasant taste.
By using rosemary decoctions regularly, individuals can promote healthy oral flora and fresher breath, leaving their mouths feeling clean and refreshing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis decoctions that help with sour taste in mouth.
- Carvacrol: It has antimicrobial properties that help reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi in the mouth, which can contribute to a sour taste.
- Rosmarinic acid: It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe oral tissues, reduce inflammation, and prevent damage caused by free radicals, thereby alleviating a sour taste in the mouth.
- Caryophyllene: It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in the mouth, which can cause a sour taste.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for sour taste in mouth.
- Leaves: Known for their aromatic properties and ability to stimulate digestion, which can help neutralize acidity in the mouth.
- Stems: Similar to leaves, the stems of Rosmarinus officinalis have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in reducing mouth acidity.
- Buds: The buds of the plant contain essential oils that can help balance digestive fluids and reduce the sensation of sourness in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for sour taste in mouth.
- Harvest 10 grams of dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves and stems from a trusted source.
- Rinse the rosmarinus officinalis with cold water to remove impurities and debris.
- Combine the 10 grams of rosmarinus officinalis with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.
8. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel decoctions helps with sour taste in mouth because of its natural properties that soothe and calm the digestive system.
The anise-like flavor of fennel works to neutralize acid reflux, which can cause a sour taste in the mouth. Additionally, fennel's anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to a sour or bitter taste.
By soothing the stomach and calming digestive discomfort, fennel decoctions provide natural relief from sour-tasting symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with sour taste in mouth.
- Anethole: Anethole is a phenylpropanoid compound that acts as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent, helping to reduce the inflammation and bacterial growth that may contribute to a sour taste in the mouth.
- Furanocoumarins: Furanocoumarins are a type of coumarin derivative that exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help control the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause bad breath and a sour taste in the mouth.
- Volatile oils: The volatile oils present in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions, particularly Limonene and Pinene, have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the symptoms of a sour taste in the mouth by controlling bacterial growth and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for sour taste in mouth.
- Seeds: They are used to make decoctions due to their high carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to neutralize the sour taste and provide relief.
- Leaves: The leaves are used in decoctions to help alleviate sour taste due to their carminative and antioxidant properties, which aid in soothing the digestive system.
- Roots: Foeniculum vulgare roots are used in decoctions to neutralize sour taste, as they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, helping to calm digestive discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for sour taste in mouth.
- Harvest 20-30g of foeniculum vulgare roots or rhizomes preferably during the fall season.
- Dry the harvested material in a warm well-ventilated area for 7-10 days.
- Grind 5-10g of the dried material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the powder with 200ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes then strain it using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
9. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with sour taste in mouth because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, particularly the sesquiterpenes and polyphenols.
These compounds have been shown to possess antibacterial properties that can help combat the growth of anaerobic bacteria in the mouth, which is often responsible for producing volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) causing sour taste.
The decoctions may also stimulate saliva production, helping to neutralize any lingering acidity and promote a healthy oral environment, ultimately reducing the sensation of sourness in the mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with sour taste in mouth.
- Alkaloids: The alkaloids present in Echinacea angustifolia, such as echinatin and echinacoside, help to reduce inflammation and soothe the oral mucosa, thereby alleviating the sensation of sourness in the mouth.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes, particularly 11β-hydroxy-9β, 13β-dihydroxy-14β-olean-12-en-3β-ol, possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help to heal mouth ulcers and reduce the discomfort associated with sour taste.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides, including echinacoside, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to protect the oral mucosa and reduce the sensation of sourness in the mouth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for sour taste in mouth.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are commonly used due to their purported ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with a sour taste in the mouth.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their potential to neutralize and balance the body's pH levels, which can help alleviate a sour taste in the mouth.
- Flowers: The flowers of Echinacea angustifolia are used due to their supposed ability to reduce acidity and promote digestive health, which can help alleviate a sour taste in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for sour taste in mouth.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of roots of echinacea angustifolia plants that are 4-8 years old in late summer.
- Clean the roots thoroughly with a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped roots in 1 quart of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh to remove the solids.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with sour taste in mouth because it stimulates digestive enzymes, promoting the breakdown of food in the stomach and small intestine.
The diuretic properties of dandelion also help to flush out excess toxins and acid from the body, which can contribute to a sour taste.
Additionally, the bitter compounds found in dandelion have been shown to stimulate saliva production, neutralizing acidic environments in the mouth and eliminating the sour taste.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with sour taste in mouth.
- Apolypodol: It has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the mouth, which may be contributing to the sour taste.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene ester has antimicrobial properties, which can help eliminate bacteria in the mouth that may be causing the sour taste.
- Taraxasterol acetate: Similar to taraxasterol, taraxasterol acetate also has antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the presence of bacteria in the mouth that may be contributing to the sour taste.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for sour taste in mouth.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to make decoctions for their bitter and astringent properties, which can help counteract a sour taste in the mouth.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used to make decoctions for their bitter and astringent properties, which can help balance the pH in the mouth and alleviate a sour taste.
- Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used to make decoctions for their bitter and astringent properties, which can also help to reduce inflammation in the mouth and alleviate a sour taste.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for sour taste in mouth.
- Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and roots in the early morning for optimal potency and flavor.
- Chop 20 grams of taraxacum officinale leaves and 30 grams of roots into small pieces for easier infusion.
- Combine the chopped taraxacum officinale leaves and roots with 1 liter of boiling water in a large pot.
- Steep the taraxacum officinale mixture for 15 minutes over low heat to release its active compounds.
- Strain the taraxacum officinale decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for sour taste in mouth?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with sour taste in mouth is a blend of licorice root, slippery elm, and peppermint.
Licorice root soothes the mucous membranes, while slippery elm coats and protects them. Peppermint has natural antibacterial properties that help reduce bacteria that cause bad breath and sour taste. Together, these herbs create a soothing and refreshing remedy for a sour mouth, promoting a healthy oral environment and alleviating discomfort.
This combination can be consumed as a tea or added to mouthwash.
What ailments similar to sour taste in mouth are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to sour taste in mouth that are treated with herbal decoctions are digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and indigestion.
Herbs like Triphala, Haritaki, and Amla are commonly used in decoctions to alleviate these symptoms.
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of these herbs help to reduce the growth of harmful bacteria and inflammation in the mouth, leading to a reduction in sour taste and other oral health issues.