By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Inflamed Mouth
Herbal tinctures for inflamed mouth are natural liquid extracts made from plants, roots, and herbs that have been used for centuries to soothe and calm inflamed oral tissues.
These tinctures work by reducing swelling, inflammation, and pain associated with conditions such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and mouth ulcers. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with inflamed mouth include calendula, chamomile, and peppermint, which can be taken sublingually or added to water for a topical rinse.
This natural approach can greatly improve lives by reducing discomfort and promoting overall oral health.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for inflamed mouth, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Hypericum perforatum
- 4. Echinacea angustifolia
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Melissa officinalis
- 7. Matricaria chamomilla
- 8. Curcuma longa
- 9. Zingiber officinale
- 10. Papaver rhoeas
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for inflamed mouth?
- What ailments similar to inflamed mouth are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with inflamed mouth because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes.
The tannins and flavonoids present in pot marigold work together to reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with oral inflammation. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of pot marigold help combat bacterial and viral infections that can contribute to inflamed mouth conditions.
As a result, pot marigold tinctures provide natural relief from mouth sores, gum inflammation, and other painful oral issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with inflamed mouth.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce swelling and pain in the mouth.
- Neryl acetate and geranyl acetate: These sesquiterpene esters possess antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial and fungal infections that may be contributing to mouth inflammation.
- Tricin: This flavonoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can aid in soothing and protecting the oral mucosa from further irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds, such as triterpene saponins and flavonoids.
- Leaves: They are used to create tinctures that can help soothe and reduce inflammation in the mouth, thanks to their ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and other pathogens.
- Roots: They are also used to make tinctures that can help alleviate mouth inflammation, due to their rich content of sesquiterpene lactones, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for inflamed mouth.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh calendula flowers on a dry sunny day with scissors.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer for 1-2 weeks in a warm dark place.
- Combine 1 part dried flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking daily.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with inflamed mouth because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can provide fast and effective relief from mouth sores, gum inflammation, and oral mucositis.
The glycyrrhizin in licorice root has been shown to reduce inflammation by blocking the production of inflammatory enzymes, while also soothing irritated tissues and promoting healing.
As a natural remedy, herbal licorice tinctures can be used topically or taken orally to alleviate pain, discomfort, and swelling associated with inflamed mouth conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with inflamed mouth.
- Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and pain in the mouth.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, which help to combat oral infections and inflammation.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin has a potent anti-inflammatory effect that helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the mouth, and its ability to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis also aids in alleviating pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth.
- Roots: They contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps soothe mouth inflammation.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
- Barks: They possess similar properties to roots, with glycyrrhizin and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for inflamed mouth.
- Harvest 1 part of dried glycyrrhiza glabra root by hand at the end of summer or early fall.
- Crush 1 part of the harvested root into smaller pieces using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Combine the crushed root with 5 parts of 95% ethanol in a clean glass container for 2 weeks.
- Shake the container gently 2 times a day for 14 days to allow the roots to infuse into the ethanol.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the final tincture after 2 weeks.
3. Hypericum perforatum
St john's wort tinctures helps with inflamed mouth because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb contains compounds like hypericin and flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and swelling in the mouth. When used as a tincture, St john's wort can be applied directly to the affected area, providing quick relief from discomfort and pain caused by inflamed gums, tongue, or cheeks.
Its antimicrobial properties also help combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the inflammation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with inflamed mouth.
- Hyperforin: A phenolic compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of mouth inflammation.
- Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which can help combat infections and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
- Quinazolinones: These compounds have shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect tissues from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth.
- Leaves: Known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and calm inflamed mouth tissues.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help to reduce mouth inflammation.
- Stems: Contain bioactive compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in healing and reducing mouth inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for inflamed mouth.
- Harvest fresh hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the plant material in a single layer in a cool dark place for 2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part dried hypericum perforatum with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
4. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with inflamed mouth because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, derived from the plant's active compounds such as ursolic acid and isothiocyanates.
These bioactive molecules effectively reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues in the mouth, providing fast relief from conditions like gingivitis, periodontitis, and oral ulcers.
Additionally, the tincture's antibacterial properties help combat underlying infections that can contribute to chronic inflammation, promoting a healthy balance of oral flora.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with inflamed mouth.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with inflamed mouth conditions.
- Caffeic acid: As a phenolic compound, caffeic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe and calm inflamed tissues in the mouth.
- Alkylamides: These compounds have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth.
- Roots: The roots are primarily used due to their high concentration of alkaloids and glycosides that have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective for soothing inflamed mouth tissues.
- Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and phenolic compounds that exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, which help in reducing inflammation and combating infections in the mouth.
- Buds: The buds contain essential oils and compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help in reducing swelling and alleviating pain in inflamed mouth tissues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for inflamed mouth.
- Harvest 1 part of echinacea angustifolia roots and 2 parts of aerial parts in the fall.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at 40°c for 2 days.
- Use a 1:5 ratio of plant material to 95% ethanol and soak for 2-6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 days.
- Bottle the echinacea angustifolia tincture in dark glass bottles and store at room temperature.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with inflamed mouth because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The bioactive compounds present in dandelion, such as taraxasterol and sesquiterpenoids, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain associated with mouth inflammation. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of dandelion tincture help combat bacterial and fungal infections that can contribute to mouth inflammation.
By using herbal dandelion tinctures, individuals may experience relief from inflamed mouth symptoms, promoting a healthier oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with inflamed mouth.
- Saponins: Saponins have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and ease pain in inflamed mouth tissues.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly Quercetin, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the mouth.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpenoid saponin that has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated mouth tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: Contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
- Roots: Have been traditionally used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe inflamed mouth tissues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for inflamed mouth.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and flowers in the morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Clean the taraxacum officinale roots and flowers thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and debris.
- Combine 1 part of the cleaned taraxacum officinale roots and flowers with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to separate the tincture from the solids.
6. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm tinctures helps with inflamed mouth because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
The herb's soothing effects calm irritated tissues, promoting a healthy balance in the mouth. Additionally, lemon balm's antibacterial qualities help combat underlying infections that may be contributing to inflammation.
As a result, lemon balm tinctures provide swift relief from soreness, redness, and pain associated with inflamed mouth, making it an effective natural remedy for maintaining oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with inflamed mouth.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound that acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and pain in the mouth by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Caryophyllene oxide: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to reduce redness and discomfort in the mouth by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory mediators.
- Limonene: A monoterpene that exhibits antimicrobial properties, helping to combat bacterial infections that may be contributing to mouth inflammation by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and soothe mouth irritations.
- Flowers: Known for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help ease mouth pain and discomfort.
- Roots: Contain compounds that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth, making them suitable for tincture preparation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for inflamed mouth.
- Harvest melissa officinalis leaves and flowers at peak potency during early morning or late afternoon when the dew is still present.
- Clean the harvested melissa officinalis leaves and flowers with a gentle stream of cool water to remove impurities.
- Combine 250 grams of melissa officinalis leaves and flowers with 750 milliliters of 35% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for a minimum of 14 days with occasional gentle shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into a separate container and discard the solids after 21 days for maximum potency.
7. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with inflamed mouth because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated tissues.
The herb's flavonoids and terpenoids work together to reduce swelling and alleviate pain caused by inflammation. Additionally, chamomile's antimicrobial agents help combat bacteria and viruses that can contribute to oral infections and inflammation.
By incorporating chamomile tincture into a daily routine, individuals with inflamed mouth can experience rapid relief from discomfort and promote a healthy oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with inflamed mouth.
- Apigenin: Apigenin acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and pain in the mouth by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Luteolin: Luteolin possesses potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm inflamed tissues in the mouth, reducing redness and discomfort.
- Bisabolol: Bisabolol has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce bacterial growth and alleviate inflammation in the mouth, promoting a healthy oral environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth.
- Flowers: They contain apigenin and other flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making them effective for treating inflamed mouth.
- Leaves: They also contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce swelling and prevent infection in the mouth.
- Seeds: Although less commonly used, the seeds of Matricaria chamomilla are also rich in flavonoids and other compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for inflamed mouth.
- Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning when they are at their highest potency and dry them thoroughly.
- Combine 1 part dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with 2 parts high proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day or two.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
- Store the matricaria chamomilla tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before using allowing the flavors to mature.
8. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with inflamed mouth because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, inhibits pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby decreasing inflammation and promoting healing. Additionally, turmeric's antibacterial properties help combat infections that can cause oral inflammation. As a result, regular use of herbal turmeric tinctures may provide relief from inflamed mouth, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective way to soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with inflamed mouth.
- Curcumin: Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound that helps with inflamed mouth by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress through its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Tumerones: Tumerones are a type of sesquiterpene, which help with inflamed mouth by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Demethoxycurcumin: Demethoxycurcumin is another curcuminoid that helps with inflamed mouth by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thus reducing inflammation and pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth.
- Rhyzomes: These underground stems of Curcuma longa are used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth because they contain a high concentration of curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound.
- Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa are used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth as they have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to soothe and heal the mouth.
- Stems: The stems of Curcuma longa are used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth because they have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for inflamed mouth.
- Harvest fresh curcuma longa rhizomes in the early morning when moisture is at its lowest point.
- Clean the harvested rhizomes with filtered water to remove dirt and impurities thoroughly.
- Chop the rhizomes into small pieces to increase their surface area for better solvent penetration.
- Steep the chopped rhizomes in high-proof vodka at a ratio of 1:5 for 6-8 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter and discard the solids to obtain the final tincture.
9. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with inflamed mouth because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which directly target the source of the discomfort.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, work to reduce swelling and alleviate pain, providing quick relief from symptoms like redness, soreness, and burning sensations.
Additionally, ginger's natural antibacterial and antifungal properties help combat any underlying infections that may be contributing to the inflammation, promoting a healthy mouth environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with inflamed mouth.
- Gingerols: These gingerols, specifically 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce swelling and soothe inflamed mouth tissues.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, particularly 6-shogaol, have potent anti-inflammatory effects, which aid in reducing pain and inflammation associated with mouth infections or irritations.
- Zingiberene: Zingiberene, a sesquiterpene compound found in ginger, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to combat bacterial and fungal infections that may be causing mouth inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth.
- Rhyzomes: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of active compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used in tinctures as they contain similar active compounds as the rhyzomes, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the mouth.
- Leaves: Although less commonly used, the leaves of the plant are sometimes used in tinctures for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and protect the inflamed mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for inflamed mouth.
- Harvest 5-10 pounds of fresh or dried rhizomes, ideally during the early summer months when mature.
- Chop the harvested rhizomes into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Combine the chopped rhizomes with 80-100 proof vodka or glycerin in a 1:3 ratio by weight.
- Seal the mixture in a glass container and allow it to steep for 4-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the tincture from the solids and discard the solids.
10. Papaver rhoeas
Poppy tinctures helps with inflamed mouth because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant-based extract contains a wealth of natural compounds, including salicylic acid, which is known to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the oral cavity. Additionally, poppy tincture has antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections that can contribute to inflamed mouth conditions.
By applying it topically, individuals can experience rapid relief from discomfort, soreness, and inflammation, promoting a healthier and more comfortable mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Papaver rhoeas tinctures that help with inflamed mouth.
- Opioid alkaloids: These compounds, such as morphine and codeine, may help reduce inflammation in the mouth by interacting with opioid receptors and modulating pain perception.
- Flavonoids: As a type of phenolic compound, flavonoids may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and protect the oral mucosa from inflammation.
- Benzyl isothiocyanate: This sulfur-containing compound may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce the severity of mouth inflammation caused by infections or irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of poppy used to make tinctures for inflamed mouth.
- Roots: Rich in alkaloids and glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory properties to soothe inflamed mouth tissues.
- Leaves: Contain papaverine, a natural muscle relaxant that helps reduce inflammation and pain in the mouth.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants that may help reduce swelling and promote healing in inflamed mouth tissues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic poppy for inflamed mouth.
- Harvest 10 percent of the above ground parts of papaver rhoeas on a dry day to avoid contamination.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material within 24 hours of harvesting to prevent spoilage.
- Use a 1:5 ratio of plant material to solvent and macerate the material in a glass container for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container after the maceration period.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place and allow it to mature for at least 2 months before use.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for inflamed mouth?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with inflamed mouth is a blend of peppermint, chamomile, and calendula.
Peppermint's antibacterial properties help reduce inflammation, while chamomile's soothing effects calm the mouth and ease pain. Calendula's anti-inflammatory properties further reduce swelling and promote healing. Mix equal parts of each tincture, typically 5-7 drops, and apply it to the affected area using a cotton swab.
Repeat as needed to alleviate discomfort and promote oral health.
What ailments similar to inflamed mouth are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to inflamed mouth that are treated with herbal tinctures are various oral and throat issues.
These include gum inflammation, tooth abscesses, tonsillitis, and thrush. Herbal tinctures such as goldenseal, echinacea, and myrrh have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and heal irritated mucous membranes in the mouth and throat.
Additionally, tinctures like calendula and tea tree oil may help reduce inflammation and combat infection.