10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Painful Swallowing

Herbal tinctures for painful swallowing are concentrated liquid extracts made from plant-based ingredients that soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the throat, alleviating discomfort and pain associated with swallowing.

These natural remedies help by reducing inflammation, relaxing the muscles, and lubricating the throat, making it easier to swallow. Examples of herbal tinctures that can help include slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root, which can provide relief for individuals experiencing conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or post-surgery discomfort.

By using these tinctures, people can improve their quality of life by enjoying solid foods again, reducing anxiety about eating, and regaining confidence in their ability to swallow without pain.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with painful swallowing because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The extract from licorice root has been shown to reduce inflammation in the mucous membranes of the throat, which can help alleviate discomfort and pain associated with conditions such as acid reflux, laryngitis, and esophagitis.

Additionally, licorice tinctures have been found to stimulate the production of mucus, which helps to protect and heal the lining of the throat, making it an effective natural remedy for promoting comfortable swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with painful swallowing.
• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress related to painful swallowing.
• Coumarins: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with painful swallowing.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are primarily used due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with swallowing.
• Barks: They are also used for their medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can contribute to soothing and calming the throat and mouth.
• Leaves: They may be used for their mild analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the throat and mouth, making it easier to swallow.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest glycyrrhiza glabra roots in the fall when the plant is mature and the roots are fully developed.
2. Clean and dry the harvested roots by air-drying them in a well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a root cutter to increase surface area.
4. Steep the chopped roots in a neutral solvent such as vodka at a 1:5 root-to-solvent ratio for 2-3 weeks.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the tincture from the solids.

2. Phellodendron amurense

Amur corktree tinctures helps with painful swallowing because its bioactive compounds, such as phlobaphenes and saponins, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These compounds work together to reduce inflammation in the esophagus and mucous membranes, soothing the discomfort associated with conditions like esophagitis, GERD, and laryngitis.

By calming the irritated tissues, Amur corktree tinctures provide relief from painful swallowing, allowing for smoother and more comfortable digestion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Phellodendron amurense tinctures that help with painful swallowing.

• Berberine: A bioactive alkaloid that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and infection in the throat, alleviating painful swallowing.
• Phellodendrine: A phenolic alkaloid that exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which can help soothe pain and discomfort in the throat and jaw, making swallowing more manageable.
• Columbamine: A phenolic alkaloid with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response in the throat, potentially alleviating painful swallowing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of amur corktree used to make tinctures for painful swallowing.

• Roots: The roots contain berberine and other alkaloids that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, making them useful for alleviating painful swallowing.
• Leaves: The leaves of Phellodendron amurense are also a source of berberine and other alkaloids, which contribute to their use in tinctures for soothing painful swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 500g of phellodendron amurense bark and clean it thoroughly with a soft brush to remove any debris.
2. Cut the cleaned phellodendron amurense bark into small pieces to increase its surface area and efficiency.
3. Combine the cut phellodendron amurense bark with 75% ethanol in a ratio of 1:2 for a strong tincture.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks with occasional shaking to ensure proper extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a clear herbal tincture.

3. Calendula officinalis

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

The herb's flavonoids and carotenoids work together to reduce inflammation and irritation, making it an effective natural remedy for conditions such as pharyngitis and laryngitis.

By reducing swelling and discomfort, pot marigold tinctures can help alleviate the pain associated with swallowing, providing relief from the distressing symptoms of these common throat disorders.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Calendulin: Calendulin, a triterpene saponin, has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that may help reduce swelling and pain in the throat, making it easier to swallow.
• Sesquiterpene lactones: Sesquiterpene lactones, such as calendulin and calendulic acid, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help alleviate pain and discomfort in the throat and mouth, making it easier to swallow.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the throat and mouth, making it easier to swallow and alleviating painful sensations.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help alleviate painful swallowing.
• Leaves: They are used for their bitter and astringent properties, which can help reduce inflammation and ease painful swallowing.
• Roots: They are used for their antispasmodic and soothing properties, which can help calm the muscles and nerves, reducing painful swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest calendula flowers in full bloom when they are completely open and dry them immediately using paper bags to preserve their potency.
2. Combine 1 part dried calendula flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar with a lid.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day to facilitate extraction.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the liquid to small dark glass bottles and label them with the date and ingredients used for future reference.

4. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with painful swallowing because of its unique composition, which contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes in the throat.

The herb's ability to reduce inflammation and swelling allows for a decrease in discomfort and pain associated with swallowing. Additionally, Kansas coneflower has been traditionally used to support immune function, which can help combat underlying infections or conditions contributing to painful swallowing.

By addressing both inflammation and infection, Kansas coneflower tinctures provide natural relief from this uncomfortable symptom.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help alleviate painful swallowing by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, which in turn can ease the discomfort associated with swollen tissues in the throat.
• Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Echinacea angustifolia may help with painful swallowing by exerting a mild antispasmodic effect, which can relax the muscles in the throat and reduce spasmodic contractions that cause pain during swallowing.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids in Echinacea angustifolia may help alleviate painful swallowing by demonstrating anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat and adjacent tissues.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are the primary source of the plant's medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe the throat.
• Leaves: They contain bioactive compounds that have been traditionally used to treat various throat and mouth issues, including painful swallowing.
• Stems: Although less commonly used, the stems of Echinacea angustifolia are also used in some herbal remedies to alleviate throat discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1:8 fresh or dried roots of echinacea angustifolia in the late summer or early fall season.
2. Clean and chop 500g of the harvested roots into smaller pieces for easier maceration.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 750ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass container in a 1:8 ratio.
4. Store the container in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow for maceration and infusion.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to obtain the tincture.

5. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle tinctures helps with painful swallowing because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes in the throat.

Nettle's bioflavonoids and polysaccharides work together to reduce swelling and inflammation, making it easier for food and liquids to pass through the esophagus without discomfort or pain.

Additionally, nettle's natural demulcent properties form a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, further reducing irritation and allowing for smoother swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with painful swallowing.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat and mouth, making it easier to swallow.
• Phenolic acids: These antioxidants can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and pain associated with swallowing.
• Saponins: These plant sterols have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the body's response to inflammation and reduce pain and discomfort in the throat and mouth.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for painful swallowing.

• Leaves: Leaves are commonly used to make tinctures due to their high concentration of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with painful swallowing.
• Stems: Stems are often used to make tinctures as they contain a significant amount of histamine, which may help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the throat.
• Roots: Roots are sometimes used to make tinctures, possibly due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties, which could contribute to the relief of painful swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried urtica dioica leaves and stems in late spring or early summer when they are in full growth.
2. Chop or bruise the harvested material to release its oils and prepare it for the extraction process using a sharp knife.
3. Combine 1 part of the prepared urtica dioica material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass container.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the container every day or two.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container and discard the solids.

6. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with painful swallowing because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The herb's active compounds, such as taraxasterol and taraxerin, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the mucous membranes of the throat and esophagus, alleviating discomfort and pain associated with conditions like acid reflux, laryngitis, and esophagitis.

By reducing swelling and irritation, dandelion tinctures promote a healthy healing process, allowing for smoother and more comfortable swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These compounds, including quercetin and kaempferol, help to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response, which can contribute to the relief of painful swallowing.
• Sesquiterpene lactones: Compounds like taraxasterol and arabinoside exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to alleviate swelling and discomfort in the throat and esophagus.
• Phenolic acids: Polyphenols such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with swallowing disorders.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for painful swallowing.

• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for painful swallowing due to their bitter and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for painful swallowing due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
• Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for painful swallowing due to their anti-inflammatory and sedative properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh dandelion roots and leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Wash the harvested dandelion roots and leaves with filtered water to remove dirt.
3. Chop the dandelion roots and leaves into small pieces with a sharp knife.
4. Combine the chopped dandelion roots and leaves with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
5. Steep the dandelion mixture in the vodka for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.

7. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with painful swallowing because it contains a unique combination of anti-inflammatory and soothing compounds.

The aloe vera gel's mucilages coat and calm the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing irritation and inflammation caused by conditions such as acid reflux, laryngitis, or post-surgery swelling. This natural remedy also increases saliva production, helping to lubricate and moisten the throat, making it easier to swallow.

As a result, patients experience significant relief from discomfort and pain associated with swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Aloe vera, such as aloin and aloe-emodin, help reduce inflammation and pain in the throat, thereby alleviating painful swallowing.
• Phenolics: Phenolic compounds, including aloin and aloe-emodin, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe the mucous membranes and reduce pain associated with swallowing.
• Saponins: Saponins present in Aloe vera, such as aloin and aloe-emodin, possess anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help calm the throat and reduce the discomfort associated with painful swallowing.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the primary source of Aloe vera gel, which is used to make tinctures due to its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the throat.
• Barks: The barks of the Aloe vera plant contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making them useful in creating tinctures that can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes of the throat.
• Roots: The roots of Aloe vera are used to make tinctures that contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the throat, making it easier to swallow.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest mature aloe vera leaves weighing approximately 3-4 pounds for their gel and medicinal properties.
2. Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and soak them in 80 proof vodka or ethanol at a 1:3 ratio for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
4. Add a small amount of glycerin to the liquid to help preserve the aloe vera properties and prevent spoilage.
5. Store the herbal aloe vera tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before using it.

8. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with painful swallowing because of its unique ability to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.

The herbal extract contains mucilages, which are natural emollients that lubricate and calm irritated tissues, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Additionally, marshmallow tincture's demulcent properties create a protective barrier on the affected area, shielding it from further irritation and allowing for easier swallowing.

This natural remedy can bring relief to individuals experiencing painful swallowing due to conditions such as acid reflux, esophagitis, or postoperative recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: Mucilages help with painful swallowing by forming a protective and soothing barrier on the mucous membranes of the throat, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, particularly galactomannans, contribute to the soothing effect by forming a protective film on the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and inflammation in the throat.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate painful swallowing by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the throat, promoting healing and soothing the affected area.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are commonly used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used for their mucilage properties, making them an effective remedy for painful swallowing by coating and soothing the irritated tissues.
• Barks: The barks of Althaea officinalis contain mucilages and other compounds that aid in relieving painful swallowing by providing a protective barrier and reducing inflammation in the throat.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh roots of althaea officinalis in the morning for optimal potency.
2. Clean the roots thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove dirt and debris from the harvest site.
3. Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
4. Combine 1 part of chopped roots with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
5. Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to extract the root's medicinal properties.

9. Ruscus aculeatus

Dog holly tinctures helps with painful swallowing because of its soothing properties, which can ease discomfort in the throat and mouth.

The tannins present in dog holly work to reduce inflammation and irritation, making it easier for dogs to swallow food and water without pain or difficulty. Additionally, the natural anti-inflammatory compounds in the tincture help to calm down any underlying infections or irritations that may be contributing to painful swallowing.

As a result, dog holly tinctures provide relief and comfort to dogs experiencing discomfort while eating and drinking.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ruscus aculeatus tinctures that help with painful swallowing.

• Saponins: These compounds may help with painful swallowing by reducing inflammation and modulating immune responses, which can contribute to the development of throat pain.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds may help with painful swallowing by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.
• Flavonoids: These compounds may help with painful swallowing by possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce throat irritation and pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dog holly used to make tinctures for painful swallowing.

• Leaves: The leaves are primarily used due to their purported anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate painful swallowing.
• Roots: The roots are also used for their potential to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with painful swallowing.
• Stems: The stems of Ruscus aculeatus are sometimes used in herbal remedies, but their use is less common than the leaves and roots for treating painful swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh ruscus aculeatus leaves and stems in the early morning when dew is still present on the plant.
2. Clean and chop the harvested leaves and stems into small pieces to release their active compounds.
3. Combine the chopped ruscus aculeatus with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass container to create a 1:5 ratio.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the container daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container, discarding the solids and storing the tincture in a cool dark place.

10. Equisetum arvense

Field horsetail tinctures helps with painful swallowing because of its remarkable anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant's rich concentration of flavonoids, saponins, and silica helps to reduce inflammation in the mucous membranes, alleviating discomfort and pain associated with sore throats and swollen tonsils. Additionally, the tincture's natural antiseptic and antimicrobial agents work to combat infections, promoting a healthy environment for the throat and esophagus.

This synergistic combination of compounds makes field horsetail tinctures an effective herbal remedy for soothing painful swallowing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense tinctures that help with painful swallowing.

• Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with conditions that cause painful swallowing, such as esophagitis or esophageal strictures.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Equisetum arvense have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the esophageal mucosa from damage and reduce pain caused by inflammation or irritation.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with conditions that cause painful swallowing, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make tinctures for painful swallowing.

• Roots: The roots of Equisetum arvense are used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that can help in alleviating pain and inflammation.
• Stems: The stems of Equisetum arvense are used because they contain silica and other compounds that can help in soothing and calming the throat and mouth area.
• Leaves: The leaves of Equisetum arvense are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help in reducing pain and discomfort associated with swallowing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh equisetum arvense rhizomes and roots in the morning after the dew has evaporated with a 1:3 to 1:5 ratio.
2. Chop the harvested equisetum arvense plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped equisetum arvense plant material with 80% to 95% ethanol or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily for 10 minutes.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

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

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

Slippery Elm soothes and protects the mucous membranes, while Licorice Root reduces inflammation and discomfort. Marshmallow Root adds its anti-inflammatory properties and mucilage, which helps to calm the throat and esophagus.

This synergistic combination can be taken in a 2:1:1 ratio, or as directed by a healthcare professional, to alleviate painful swallowing and promote digestive health.

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

Ailments similar to painful swallowing that are treated with herbal tinctures are various esophageal conditions, such as acid reflux, heartburn, and GERD.

Herbs like marshmallow root, slippery elm, and licorice root soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the esophagus, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

Additionally, herbs like ginger and peppermint may help to calm digestive issues that can contribute to painful swallowing.