10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Dry Lips

Herbal decoctions for dry lips are a natural and effective way to soothe and moisturize chapped, cracked, or irritated lips.

By infusing herbs like calendula, chamomile, and honey in hot water, these decoctions create a gentle, non-irritating remedy that calms and hydrates the skin. Examples include sipping on a cup of warm chamomile tea with honey to soften dry lips, or applying a compress soaked in calendula decoction to reduce inflammation.

These herbal remedies can significantly improve daily lives by providing long-lasting relief from discomfort, allowing individuals to enjoy activities like eating, speaking, and socializing without the distraction of chapped lips.

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

1. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold decoctions helps with dry lips because of its remarkable anti-inflammatory properties.

The flavonoids and polyphenols present in the herb have been shown to soothe and calm chapped, cracked, or irritated skin, including the delicate lip area. As a result, it provides instant relief from discomfort, reducing redness and swelling while also moisturizing and nourishing the lips.

The decoction's antioxidant properties further help to protect the lips from environmental stressors, promoting healthy and hydrated skin.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with dry lips.

• Phenolic acids: Help to soothe and protect dry lips by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of skin lesions.
• Flavonoids: Act as antioxidants to combat oxidative stress, which contributes to dryness and irritation of the lips, and also possess anti-inflammatory properties to calm irritation.
• Beta-sitosterol: A triterpenoid that helps to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, which can aid in the recovery of dry, chapped lips.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for dry lips.

• Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
• Leaves: They contain compounds that help to soothe and calm dry, chapped lips.
• Roots: They have been used traditionally to make decoctions for dry lips due to their ability to promote wound healing and tissue regeneration.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dry lips.

1. Collect 20-30 dried calendula officinalis flowers and rinse them gently under cool running water.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 2 cups of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass cup.
3. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes then strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve.
4. Discard the solids and transfer the liquid to a clean glass container for storage.
5. Refrigerate the decoction at 40 degrees fahrenheit or below for up to 3 days.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe decoctions helps with dry lips because they provide intense hydration and nourishment to the skin.

The aloe vera gel contains vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like calcium and potassium, which work together to lock in moisture and soothe dryness.

As the decoction is applied to the lips, it creates a protective barrier that shields against environmental stressors and wind damage, leaving lips feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with dry lips.

• Glucomannans: These polysaccharides help retain moisture in the skin, reducing dryness and irritation of the lips.
• Salicylic acid: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm dry, chapped lips.
• Aloin: A anthraquinone glycoside with emollient properties, which help lock in moisture and provide a protective barrier against environmental stressors that can exacerbate dry lips.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for dry lips.

• Leaves: Rich in soothing and moisturizing properties, Aloe vera leaves are commonly used to create decoctions for dry lips due to their ability to hydrate and calm the skin.
• Gel from leaves: Specifically, the gel extracted from Aloe vera leaves is the primary ingredient used in many lip care products, including decoctions, due to its high water content and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Pulp from leaves: The pulp of Aloe vera leaves, rich in vitamins and minerals, is also used to make decoctions for dry lips as it helps to nourish and moisturize the skin.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for dry lips.

1. Harvest 5-7 medium-sized aloe vera leaves and cut them into small pieces to release their medicinal properties.
2. Soak the aloe pieces in 2 cups of water for at least 2 hours to allow them to infuse.
3. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the pulp and fibers.
4. Bring the strained liquid to a boil and then reduce heat to simmer for 10-15 minutes to concentrate the mixture.
5. Allow the decoction to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Helichrysum italicum

Curry plant decoctions helps with dry lips because of its remarkable ability to soothe and moisturize.

The herb contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant that calms inflammation and reduces dryness. When applied topically as a decoction, curry plant helps to lock in moisture, providing long-lasting relief from chapped and cracked lips.

Its antimicrobial properties also prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that can exacerbate lip dryness, promoting healthy and hydrated lips.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Helichrysum italicum decoctions that help with dry lips.

• Neryl acetate: This terpene has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce redness and irritation associated with dry, chapped lips.
• Italidione: This sesquiterpene has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help soothe and protect dry, cracked lips from further damage.
• Caffeic acid: As a phenolic compound, caffeic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the soothing and moisturizing effects of Helichrysum italicum decoctions on dry lips.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of curry plant used to make decoctions for dry lips.

• Leaves: Helichrysum italicum leaves are commonly used to make decoctions for dry lips due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: Helichrysum italicum flowers are often used in decoctions for dry lips because of their soothing and moisturizing effects.
• Stems: Helichrysum italicum stems are also used to make decoctions for dry lips due to their astringent and antiseptic properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curry plant for dry lips.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of helichrysum italicum flowers at their peak potency in the morning.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a warm oven at 60°c for 2-3 hours or with a food dehydrator.
3. Grind 5-7 grams of dried helichrysum italicum flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 2 teaspoons of the ground powder in 200ml of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a fine mesh and discard the solids after 30 minutes to an hour.

4. Symphytum officinale

Comfrey decoctions helps with dry lips because of its emollient and moisturizing properties.

The allantoin present in comfrey soothes and protects the lips, locking in moisture to leave them feeling soft and supple. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory compounds in comfrey help reduce redness and irritation, while its antioxidant properties combat free radicals that can cause dryness and chapping.

As a result, regular use of a comfrey decoction as a lip balm or additive can provide long-lasting relief from dry, cracked lips.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Symphytum officinale decoctions, particularly verbenalin, help to soothe dry lips by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing, thereby alleviating dryness and discomfort.
• Saponins: Saponins present in Symphytum officinale have emollient properties that help to moisturize and protect dry lips, reducing the risk of further irritation and promoting a healthy lip environment.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids like gallic acid in Symphytum officinale decoctions exhibit antioxidant properties that help to protect dry lips from oxidative stress, promoting the recovery of the lip tissue and reducing inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make decoctions for dry lips.

• Leaves: The leaves of Symphytum officinale are commonly used in decoctions for dry lips due to their soothing and moisturizing properties.
• Roots: The roots of Symphytum officinale are also used in decoctions for dry lips because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce lip dryness and irritation.
• Flowers: The flowers of Symphytum officinale are occasionally used in decoctions for dry lips as they have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help to calm and moisturize dry lips.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for dry lips.

1. Harvest 5-10 grams of dried symphytum officinale root or 20-30 grams of fresh plant material.
2. Crush the dried material or chop the fresh plant into smaller pieces.
3. Combine the crushed or chopped plant material with 200-250 milliliters of water in a saucepan.
4. Boil the mixture for 5-10 minutes then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

5. Plantago major

Plantain decoctions helps with dry lips because of its natural emollient properties, which deeply moisturize and soothe chapped lips.

The anti-inflammatory compounds in plantain help to reduce redness and swelling, while its antioxidants protect the lip tissue from environmental stressors. As a result, plantain decoctions provide long-lasting relief from dry, flaky lips, leaving them soft, smooth, and comfortable.

Regular use can also promote healthy skin cell turnover, further reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the lips.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major decoctions that help with dry lips.

• Apolypodins: These triterpenoid saponins help with dry lips by soothing and calming the skin, reducing inflammation and irritation.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to protect the skin from oxidative stress and reduce dryness and irritation of the lips.
• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help to calm and moisturize dry lips, reducing discomfort and promoting healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make decoctions for dry lips.

• Leaves: Rich in mucilages, which help to soothe and moisturize dry, chapped lips.
• Roots: Contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which aid in healing dry, cracked lips.
• Seeds: Have emollient properties, helping to soften and protect dry, irritated skin around the lips.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for dry lips.

1. Harvest fresh or dried leaves of the medicinal plant with scissors or a sharp knife.
2. Rinse the harvested plant material under cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Combine the cleaned plant material with 1 quart or 960 milliliters of cold water.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat then reduce the heat to low and simmer.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.

6. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with dry lips because of its soothing and moisturizing properties.

The antioxidants and flavonoids present in chamomile work together to calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and discomfort. As a natural humectant, chamomile decoction also attracts and retains moisture, providing long-lasting hydration to dry and chapped lips.

By using chamomile decoctions as a lip balm or oral rinse, individuals can experience relief from dryness and itchiness, leaving their lips feeling soft, smooth, and comfortable.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid compound helps to soothe and calm dry, irritated skin, reducing inflammation and promoting hydration.
• Bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol, bisabolol has anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties that help to lock in moisture and protect dry lips from further irritation.
• Chamazulene: A sesquiterpene, chamazulene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce redness and soothe dry, chapped lips, promoting healthy skin regeneration.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for dry lips.

• Flowers: They are used due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that help to calm and moisturize dry lips.
• Leaves: They contain apigenin, an antioxidant that aids in soothing and protecting dry, chapped lips.
• Seeds: They have antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing of dry, cracked lips.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for dry lips.

1. Harvest 1 ounce of fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers or 2 ounces of dried flowers for decoction.
2. Dry the flowers in a single layer on a paper bag or parchment paper for 24 hours.
3. Combine the dried flowers with 32 ounces of cold water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or until it reaches 160 degrees fahrenheit.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container for storage.

7. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with dry lips because they provide a soothing and nourishing solution for chapped and cracked skin.

The herbal extract contains glycyrrhizin, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties that calm and moisturize the lips. Additionally, licorice root has been shown to stimulate collagen production, promoting healthy lip tissue growth and elasticity.

As a result, regular use of licorice decoctions can help to hydrate and rejuvenate dry, chapped lips, leaving them soft, smooth, and refreshed.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Licorice glycosides: These compounds help to soothe and moisturize dry lips by promoting hydration and reducing inflammation.
• Glycyrrhizin: As a potent anti-inflammatory, glycyrrhizin reduces redness and irritation associated with dry, chapped lips, promoting a healthy environment for healing.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have antioxidant properties that help protect the lips from environmental stressors, promoting skin health and preventing further irritation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for dry lips.

• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are commonly used to make decoctions for dry lips due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound with emollient properties that soothes and moisturizes the skin.
• Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra leaves are used in decoctions for dry lips because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help to calm and protect the skin.
• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are also used due to their antiseptic properties, which help to prevent infections and promote healing in dry, chapped lips.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for dry lips.

1. Gather 5-10 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
2. Boil one liter of water and add the cleaned glycyrrhiza glabra roots to the boiling water.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes allowing the roots to infuse.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh to remove the roots and any impurities.
5. Allow the decoction to cool down and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

8. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort decoctions helps with dry lips because of its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbs' active compounds, such as hyperforin and flavonoids, have natural soothing effects that calm irritated skin and reduce inflammation. When applied topically as a decoction, St John's Wort can help to lock in moisture and soften chapped lips, providing instant relief from dryness and discomfort.

Additionally, its antimicrobial properties can help to prevent infection and promote healthy lip tissue.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum decoctions that help with dry lips.

• Hyperforin: Hyperforin exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm dry, irritated lips.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, has antioxidant properties that help protect and moisturize dry lips from environmental stressors.
• N-o-methyl hypericin: N-O-Methyl hypericin has been found to have antiseptic properties, which can help reduce bacterial infections that may contribute to dry, chapped lips.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make decoctions for dry lips.

• Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their high flavonoid content, which provides anti-inflammatory properties and helps soothe dry lips.
• Flowers: Flowers are often used in decoctions for dry lips because they contain hyperforin and hypericin, which have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: Stems are used in some decoctions for dry lips due to their ability to provide moisturizing and protective properties for the skin.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 part dried hypericum perforatum flowers and 2 parts boiling water in a heat resistant container.
2. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the herb's active compounds to infuse.
3. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve into a clean container.
4. Discard the solids and store the liquid in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Drink 1 to 2 tablespoons of the decoction 2 to 3 times a day as needed.

9. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle decoctions helps with dry lips because they provide an intense dose of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to hydrate and nourish the skin.

The anti-inflammatory properties of nettle help to soothe and calm irritated lips, reducing redness and discomfort. Additionally, the decoction's humectant properties attract and retain moisture, leaving lips feeling soft, smooth, and supple.

As a natural remedy, stinging nettle decoctions offer a gentle and effective way to combat dry, chapped lips without harsh chemicals or artificial ingredients.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with dry lips.

• Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds help to soothe and moisturize dry lips by providing a protective barrier against moisture loss and promoting hydration.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly caffeic acid and ferulic acid, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and irritation associated with dry lips.
• Ascorbic acid: Ascorbic acid is a potent antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from oxidative stress, promote collagen production, and improve skin hydration, all of which can contribute to healthier and more hydrated lips.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for dry lips.

• Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in soothing dry lips.
• Roots: The roots contain urticine, a compound that helps to reduce swelling and inflammation, which can be beneficial for dry, chapped lips.
• Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica contain saponins and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to heal and protect dry lips.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for dry lips.

1. Gather 1/2 cup of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems or 2 tablespoons of dried leaves.
2. Chop the fresh leaves and stems into small pieces to release their active ingredients and oils.
3. Combine the chopped fresh leaves and stems with 1 quart of boiling water or dried leaves with 2 cups of boiling water.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids and discard the solids.

10. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow decoctions helps with dry lips because of their unique ability to lock in moisture.

The mucilages present in marshmallow roots create a protective barrier on the skin, trapping hydration and soothing dryness. This natural shield also helps to reduce inflammation and irritation, allowing the lips to recover from the harsh effects of environmental stressors.

As a result, marshmallow decoctions provide long-lasting relief from chapped and cracked lips, leaving them soft, smooth, and supple.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: Mucilages help to soothe and protect dry lips by forming a protective barrier on the skin's surface, reducing inflammation, and promoting moisture retention.
• Althaea polysaccharides: Althaea polysaccharides have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness and irritation associated with dry lips, promoting a calm and comfortable skin environment.
• Glucuronic acid: Glucuronic acid, a component of mucilages, helps to retain moisture in the skin, reducing dryness and flakiness of the lips, and promoting a smooth and supple texture.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for dry lips.

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are the most commonly used part for making decoctions to soothe dry lips, as they contain high amounts of mucilage that provides hydration and protection.
• Leaves: The leaves of Althaea officinalis are also used to make decoctions due to their ability to retain moisture, which helps to keep the skin hydrated and relieved from dryness.
• Stems: The stems of Althaea officinalis are occasionally used for decoctions, as they contain smaller amounts of mucilage, which still provides some soothing and protective benefits for dry lips.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for dry lips.

1. Harvest 2-4 ounces of dried root of the plant with white latex-containing roots.
2. Crush 1 tablespoon of the harvested root into small pieces using a mortar and pestle.
3. Combine the crushed root with 2 cups of boiling water in a saucepan.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes then strain the liquid through a cheesecloth.
5. Discard the solids and store the cooled decoction in a clean glass container.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for dry lips?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with dry lips is a blend of aloe vera, chamomile, and honey.

Aloe vera soothes and hydrates the skin, while chamomile calms inflammation and reduces redness. Adding honey, known for its antibacterial and moisturizing properties, enhances the healing process.

This combination can be made by steeping dried aloe vera and chamomile in hot water, then straining and mixing with honey to create a soothing, protective balm for dry, chapped lips.

What ailments similar to dry lips are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to dry lips that are treated with herbal decoctions are various skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis.

Herbal decoctions rich in antioxidants like green tea and chamomile can soothe irritated skin, while those containing aloe vera and licorice root can help reduce inflammation and itching.

Decoctions made from herbs like calendula and comfrey can also promote wound healing and skin regeneration.