10 Best Herbal Creams For Painful Swallowing

Herbal creams for painful swallowing are topical formulations containing natural ingredients that help alleviate discomfort and pain associated with difficulty swallowing.

These creams often feature ingredients like aloe vera, slippery elm, and chamomile, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Examples of such creams include those containing licorice root and marshmallow root.

They help improve swallowing by reducing inflammation and pain, thereby enhancing the quality of life for individuals suffering from conditions like esophageal dysphagia.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for painful 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 painful swallowing because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The saponins present in licorice root have been found to reduce inflammation in the mucous membranes, providing relief from discomfort and pain. The cream also helps to coat the throat, providing a protective barrier against irritants and allergens.

This can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing painful swallowing due to conditions such as acid reflux or vocal cord inflammation.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with painful swallowing by reducing inflammation in the throat and mucous membranes, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort.
• Licopyranocoumarin: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in soothing the throat and reducing pain associated with swallowing.
• Isoliquiritigenin: This flavonoid compound has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help in reducing pain and swelling in the throat, thereby making swallowing less painful.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are used because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe sore throats and reduce pain.
• Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain glycosides that have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help calm irritated tissues and promote healing.
• Barks: The barks are used because they also contain glycosides and other compounds that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with swallowing difficulties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a reputable supplier.
2. Infuse the roots in 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at 65 degrees celsius for 4 hours.
3. Strain the infused mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
4. Add 10 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of cetyl alcohol to the infused oil mixture and heat it at 60 degrees celsius for 30 minutes.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before transferring it to a clean container for storage.

2. Calendula officinalis

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

The cream's active compounds, including triterpenoids and carotenoids, work to reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat and mouth. By calming the affected tissues, Calendula officinalis cream can alleviate discomfort and promote healing, allowing for easier swallowing.

This natural remedy can provide relief from painful swallowing associated with conditions such as mouth sores, tonsillitis, and esophagitis.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Quercetin: As a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin helps reduce inflammation in the throat, which in turn alleviates painful swallowing.
• Neryl acetate: This terpene has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help relieve pain and discomfort associated with swallowing.
• Α-hydroxy-β-acid: Also known as calendulin, this triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which aid in soothing and protecting the throat, reducing pain and discomfort associated with swallowing.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are rich in anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them effective in soothing sore throats and reducing discomfort.
• Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids, which help in reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing, making them useful in treating painful swallowing.
• Roots: Although less commonly mentioned, the roots of Calendula officinalis may also be used due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties, which could aid in alleviating painful swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 flowers from calendula officinalis plants when they are in full bloom and dry them immediately.
2. Steep 1 cup of dried calendula flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean bowl to remove the solids.
4. Mix 1/4 cup of the infused oil with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
5. Whip the mixture with a hand mixer until it thickens and becomes a smooth and creamy texture.

3. Ulmus rubra

Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, creams helps with painful swallowing because of its unique properties.

The cream contains mucilages, a thick, protective substance that coats the mucous membranes in the throat, providing soothing relief from irritation and inflammation. As a result, the pain and discomfort associated with painful swallowing are reduced, allowing for easier swallowing and improved overall well-being.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to calm digestive issues and promote healing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: Mucilages in Ulmus rubra help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with painful swallowing.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce swelling and pain in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, including ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help to calm the throat and reduce painful swallowing.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Roots: The roots of Ulmus rubra contain compounds that help reduce inflammation, making them a key component in creams for painful swallowing.
• Barks: Barks: The barks of Ulmus rubra are used in creams due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with painful swallowing.
• Leaves: Leaves: The leaves of Ulmus rubra contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe the throat and reduce inflammation, making them a useful ingredient in creams for painful swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25g of dried ulmus rubra bark and 50g of dried flowers at dawn on a sunny day.
2. Combine the harvested ulmus rubra bark and flowers with 500ml of distilled water in a saucepan.
3. Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes over low heat to release the herbal properties.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
5. Mix 10g of beeswax and 20g of shea butter with the herbal liquid and heat until melted.

4. Althaea officinalis

Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with painful swallowing because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The root of the plant contains mucilages, which form a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and discomfort. The cream helps to calm and heal irritated tissues, making it easier to swallow.

Its natural anti-inflammatory properties also alleviate pain and discomfort, providing relief from conditions such as esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and mouth sores.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with painful swallowing.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain in the throat, making swallowing less painful.
• Glucans: Glucans have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat, contributing to relief from painful swallowing.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are used to make creams for painful swallowing because they contain mucilages that help soothe and protect the mucous membranes.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make creams for painful swallowing because they also contain mucilages that provide anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
• Barks: The barks of Althaea officinalis are used to make creams for painful swallowing because they contain mucilages that help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the throat.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Weigh 20 grams of dried althaea officinalis root and grind it into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
2. Combine the powdered root with 100 grams of sweet almond oil in a double boiler and heat it gently.
3. Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes to infuse the oil with the herbal properties of the root.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
5. Whip 20 grams of beeswax with 20 grams of shea butter and 10 grams of coconut oil to create a creamy texture then add it to the cooled herbal infusion and mix well.

5. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, creams helps with painful swallowing because of its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

The active compounds in the plant, such as hyperforin and hypericin, reduce inflammation and relax muscle spasms, making it easier to swallow. The cream is applied topically, allowing the active ingredients to absorb into the skin and target the affected area, providing relief from discomfort and pain associated with painful swallowing.

This natural remedy offers a non-invasive solution to manage symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with painful swallowing.

• Hyperforin: This prenylated phenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce pain and discomfort associated with painful swallowing.
• N-feruloyltyramine: This alkaloid compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help soothe and calm the throat and esophageal tissues, reducing pain and inflammation.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, quercetin can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the throat and esophagus, making it easier to swallow.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for painful swallowing.

• Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of flavonoids, particularly hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: Utilized for their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: Employed for their store of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with swallowing difficulties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for painful swallowing.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of hypericum perforatum flowers in full bloom on a sunny day in summer.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a warm place for 2 weeks or use a dehydrator at 40c for 6 hours.
3. Steep 10 grams of dried flowers in 100ml of carrier oil like coconut oil at 60c for 2 hours.
4. Strain the oil mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
5. Mix 20-30 grams of beeswax with 10-15 grams of shea butter and 5-7 grams of vitamin e oil into the oil mixture.

6. Echinacea angustifolia

Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with painful swallowing because of its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.

The active compounds in Echinacea angustifolia, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid, have been shown to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response, which can contribute to the relief of painful swallowing associated with conditions like esophagitis or pharyngitis.

This natural remedy provides a soothing and protective effect on the mucous membranes, promoting a more comfortable and effortless swallowing experience.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Alkylamides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and discomfort in the throat, thereby alleviating painful swallowing.
• Iridoids: Iridoids have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the mucous membranes in the throat from damage and reduce pain associated with swallowing.
• Triterpenoids: These compounds have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the throat, leading to relief from painful swallowing.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Echinacea angustifolia roots are commonly used in creams for painful swallowing because they are rich in compounds with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.
• Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are also used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with swallowing disorders.
• Roots: Echinacea angustifolia roots are chosen for their potential to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making them a popular choice for soothing painful swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of the roots of echinacea angustifolia that have been dried for 2 weeks at room temperature for 3 hours.
2. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
3. Mix 5 teaspoons of the echinacea powder with 2 teaspoons of beeswax in a double boiler for 10 minutes.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to the mixture and stir for 5 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into a glass jar and let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes before use.

7. Borago officinalis

Borago officinalis, also known as borage, creams helps with painful swallowing because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The cream's active compounds, including gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and saponins, work to reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat and esophagus. This can help to alleviate discomfort and pain associated with swallowing. Additionally, borage oil's moisturizing properties can help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes, promoting a healthy and comfortable swallowing experience.

This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for those suffering from painful swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: Saponins in Borago officinalis creams may help reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the throat, thus alleviating painful swallowing.
• Terpenes: Terpenes in Borago officinalis creams may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce pain and discomfort associated with swallowing.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Borago officinalis creams may possess antioxidant properties, which could help protect the throat from oxidative stress and promote healing, thus reducing painful swallowing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of borage used to make creams for painful swallowing.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of mucilage, which helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.
• Seeds: They are used because they contain boragine, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and pain in the throat.
• Flowers: They are used due to their ability to produce a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect, which can help to calm the throat and alleviate discomfort associated with painful swallowing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic borage for painful swallowing.

1. Harvest 20 to 30 borago officinalis flowers in the morning when dew is still present on the petals and leaves.
2. Dry the harvested flowers by spreading them out in a single layer on a paper towel at room temperature for 7 to 10 days.
3. Combine 200g of dried flowers with 100ml of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil in a heat-resistant glass bowl.
4. Steep the mixture in a double boiler over low heat for 2 to 3 hours or until the oil has turned a light greenish color.
5. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container discarding the solids.

8. Filipendula ulmaria

Filipendula ulmaria, also known as meadowsweet, creams helps with painful swallowing because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The cream reduces swelling and irritation in the throat, providing relief from pain and discomfort. It also contains salicylic acid, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps to reduce inflammation and ease pain.

By soothing the throat and reducing inflammation, Filipendula ulmaria cream provides effective relief from painful swallowing, making it a popular natural remedy for sore throats and pharyngitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Filipendula ulmaria creams that help with painful swallowing.

• Salicylic acid: Helps to reduce inflammation and pain in the throat and mouth by acting as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent.
• Tannins: Contributes to the antiseptic and astringent properties of the cream, helping to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, thus alleviating painful swallowing.
• Saponins: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat, making it easier to swallow.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of meadowsweet used to make creams for painful swallowing.

• Leaves: Filipendula ulmaria leaves are used in creams for their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Filipendula ulmaria roots are used in creams for their expectorant properties to relieve respiratory issues, including painful swallowing.
• Flowers: Filipendula ulmaria flowers are used in creams for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to soothe the throat and relieve pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic meadowsweet for painful swallowing.

1. Gather 30 grams of dried filipendula ulmaria flowers and 15 grams of beeswax in a clean glass bowl.
2. Combine 30 grams of shea butter and 15 grams of sweet almond oil in a separate heat-resistant glass bowl.
3. Melt the beeswax and shea butter mixture in a double boiler over low heat for 10 minutes.
4. Add the filipendula ulmaria flowers to the melted mixture and let it steep for 20 minutes.
5. Strain the mixture and whip it with 10 grams of coconut oil until it reaches a smooth creamy consistency.

9. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, creams helps with painful swallowing because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The active compounds in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to reduce inflammation and fight off bacterial infections that can cause throat pain and discomfort.

By applying a thyme cream to the affected area, the natural ingredients can help soothe and calm the throat, providing relief from painful swallowing and promoting a smoother, more comfortable swallowing experience.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Thymol: Thymol has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the inflammation and infection that may be causing painful swallowing.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with painful swallowing.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that may be contributing to painful swallowing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make creams for painful swallowing.

• Leaves: The leaves of Thymus vulgaris are used to make creams for painful swallowing because of their high thymol content, which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Flowers: The flowers of Thymus vulgaris are used to make creams for painful swallowing because they contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes.
• Seeds: The seeds of Thymus vulgaris are used to make creams for painful swallowing because they contain essential oils that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20 grams of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves in the early morning to ensure optimal potency and aroma.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 35 degrees celsius for 2 hours to preserve quality.
3. Combine 20 grams of dried thymus vulgaris leaves with 100 grams of sweet almond oil and 20 grams of beeswax in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture in the double boiler over low heat for 30 minutes to facilitate the melting of beeswax.
5. Strain the cream through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and let it cool to room temperature before use.

10. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with painful swallowing because of its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

The soothing effects of the lavender oil in these creams can help to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort in the throat, making it a popular remedy for conditions such as esophagitis and acid reflux. Additionally, lavender's calming properties can help to reduce anxiety and stress, which can contribute to painful swallowing.

This natural remedy can provide quick relief and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Linalool: Linalool is a terpene that helps with painful swallowing by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties, which can reduce anxiety and discomfort associated with difficulty swallowing.
• Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate is a terpene that helps with painful swallowing by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Lavandulol: Lavandulol is a terpene that helps with painful swallowing by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat, making it less painful to swallow.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for painful swallowing.

• Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe the pain and discomfort associated with swallowing.
• Flowers: They are known for their calming effects, which can help reduce stress and anxiety related to painful swallowing.
• Seeds: They contain a compound called linalool, which has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help ease pain and discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for painful swallowing.

1. Weigh 50 grams of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers to use in this herbal cream recipe.
2. Combine 50 grams of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers with 500 milliliters of carrier oil in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture for 2 to 4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container to separate the oil.
5. Mix 200 grams of beeswax and 200 milliliters of the infused oil with 100 milliliters of distilled water to create the cream.

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

The best combination of herbal creams that help with painful swallowing is a blend of Slippery Elm and Marshmallow Root.

Slippery Elm provides soothing and protective properties to the mucous membranes in the throat, while Marshmallow Root helps to reduce inflammation and discomfort. The combination of these two herbs can be applied topically as a cream or paste to provide relief from painful swallowing.

This natural remedy can be especially helpful for individuals with conditions such as esophagitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease.

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

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

These creams often contain soothing herbs like aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula, which help reduce inflammation, itchiness, and irritation. Other conditions like minor burns, cuts, and wounds can also be treated with herbal creams that promote healing and moisturizing.

These topical remedies provide natural relief without harsh chemicals or steroids.