By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Mouth Ulcers
Herbal tinctures for mouth ulcers are liquid extracts made from plants that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties.
These tinctures help to soothe and heal mouth ulcers by reducing pain, inflammation, and bacteria that can cause further infection. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with mouth ulcers include aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula.
By using these tinctures, individuals who suffer from frequent or painful mouth ulcers can enjoy improved oral health and confidence in their daily lives, reducing the need for conventional treatments like painkillers or antibiotics.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for mouth ulcers, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Hypericum perforatum
- 4. Mentha x piperita
- 5. Camellia sinensis
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 8. Sambucus nigra
- 9. Althaea officinalis
- 10. Echinacea purpurea
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for mouth ulcers?
- What ailments similar to mouth ulcers are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm the affected area.
The aloe vera gel contains natural enzymes that help to break down dead tissue, promoting faster healing and reducing pain. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of aloe vera help to neutralize free radicals, which can exacerbate inflammation and hinder the healing process.
As a result, herbal aloe tinctures provide effective relief from mouth ulcers, allowing for rapid recovery and prevention of further irritation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with mouth ulcers.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, a chromone compound, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers.
- Vitamins and minerals: Aloe vera tinctures contain a range of vitamins (A, C, E, B) and minerals (calcium, potassium, magnesium) that promote wound healing, reduce oxidative stress, and support tissue repair in mouth ulcers.
- Acemannan: Acemannan, a polysaccharide, has immunomodulatory effects that help regulate the immune response, reducing inflammation and promoting the healing process of mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: The leaves of Aloe vera are the most commonly used part for treating mouth ulcers due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds and gel-like substance.
- Roots: The roots of Aloe vera contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making them effective in treating mouth ulcers.
- Stems: The stems of Aloe vera also contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help in reducing pain and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest aloe vera leaves from mature plants with thick green skin and take 100g of leaves for the tincture.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 50c for 2 hours to preserve their medicinal properties.
- Chop the dried leaves into small pieces and combine them with 500ml of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and allow the mixture to steep for 2 weeks to allow for proper infusion.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a separate container and discard the solids after 1 week of storage.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with mouth ulcers because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The tincture contains calendula, a natural extract that reduces swelling and pain associated with mouth ulcers. It also exhibits antibacterial activity, inhibiting the growth of bacteria that can exacerbate ulceration.
Furthermore, pot marigold's antioxidant properties help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of complications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with mouth ulcers.
- Carotenoids: These pigments, particularly beta-carotene, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling associated with mouth ulcers.
- Flavonoids: These compounds possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities that can help prevent infections and promote healing in mouth ulcers.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress in mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and heal mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: They are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair, making them effective in treating mouth ulcers.
- Stems: They are used due to their antioxidant properties, which help protect the mucous membranes and reduce the severity of mouth ulcers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning when they are at their highest oil content and dry them immediately.
- Use a clean glass jar to combine 1 part dried flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka by volume.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks or until the liquid turns a deep yellow color.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before using it to allow the flavors to mature slowly.
3. Hypericum perforatum
St John's wort tinctures helps with mouth ulcers because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The herb contains hyperforin, which has been shown to reduce swelling and pain associated with mouth sores. Additionally, St John's wort's antibacterial properties help combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the development of ulcers.
By reducing inflammation and fighting off infection, St John's wort tinctures can provide fast and effective relief from mouth ulcers, promoting a faster recovery and reduced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with mouth ulcers.
- Hyperforin: Hyperforin has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce the pain, inflammation, and bacterial infection associated with mouth ulcers.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and heal mouth ulcers by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
- Naphthodianthrones: Naphthodianthrones, including hypericin, have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help alleviate pain and promote healing in mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and naphthoquinones, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: Rich in hypericin, a naphthoquinone with antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe mouth ulcers.
- Stems: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, contributing to the overall medicinal properties of the tincture.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for mouth ulcers.
- Gather 250 grams of fresh or 500 grams of dried flowers of hypericum perforatum in a clean glass container.
- Combine the gathered plant material with 1 liter of 25 percent ethanol in a dark glass bottle.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the bottle daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle and label it with the date and contents, store in a cool dark place.
4. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The menthol in peppermint tincture acts as a natural analgesic, reducing pain and discomfort associated with mouth ulcers. Additionally, the tannins present in peppermint help to reduce inflammation and promote healing by constricting blood vessels and decreasing redness. As a result, peppermint tinctures provide quick relief from mouth ulcers, allowing individuals to eat and speak comfortably again.
Its anti-inflammatory properties also help to prevent future occurrences of mouth ulcers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with mouth ulcers.
- Menthol: Menthol's anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes, promoting healing of mouth ulcers.
- Limonene: Limonene exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent infections that may exacerbate mouth ulcers and hinder the healing process.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: They contain menthol and menthone, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and heal mouth ulcers.
- Stems: The stems of peppermint contain menthol and other compounds that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, making them useful for treating mouth ulcers.
- Roots: The roots of peppermint contain menthol and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the morning when dew is still present on the plants.
- Chop the harvested material into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for solvent interaction using sharp knives or scissors.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 80-100 proof vodka in a 1:3 ratio by weight and place the mixture in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and place it in a cool dark environment for 2-6 weeks, shaking the mixture daily to facilitate solvent extraction.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into a clean glass container, discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.
5. Camellia sinensis
Tea tinctures helps with mouth ulcers because they contain potent antimicrobial compounds that directly target the source of the discomfort.
The astringent properties of certain herbs, such as chamomile and calendula, help to reduce inflammation and promote healing by constricting blood vessels and soothing the affected area.
Additionally, the antioxidants present in herbal tea tinctures work to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate the ulceration process, allowing for faster recovery and relief from mouth ulcers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis tinctures that help with mouth ulcers.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the severity and duration of mouth ulcers.
- Theaflavins: These flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing the risk of mouth ulcers.
- Epigallocatechin gallate: As a major component of catechins, EGCG has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to alleviate the symptoms of mouth ulcers and promote wound healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and heal mouth ulcers.
- Buds: The buds are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing, making them effective in treating mouth ulcers.
- Barks: The barks are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat infection and reduce pain associated with mouth ulcers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest the camellia sinensis leaves in the early morning when they are at their highest moisture content and dry them thoroughly with a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours.
- Measure out 250 grams of the dried camellia sinensis leaves and combine them with 750 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a large glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into another large glass jar and discard the solids.
- Store the herbal camellia sinensis tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before using it to allow the flavors to mature.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain associated with these sores.
The tincture's ability to stimulate digestion and promote a healthy gut microbiome also plays a crucial role in preventing oral inflammation and ulcers.
Additionally, dandelion's antioxidant and antimicrobial properties help combat bacteria and viruses that may contribute to the development of mouth ulcers, providing fast and effective relief from discomfort and pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with mouth ulcers.
- Polysaccharides: These complex sugars may help soothe and calm inflammation in the mouth, reducing pain and discomfort associated with mouth ulcers.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce swelling and promote healing in mouth ulcers.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene ester has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate pain and inflammation in mouth ulcers, promoting a faster recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: Used due to their high content of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help soothe and heal mouth ulcers.
- Roots: Used due to their rich content of inulin and other polysaccharides, which can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting the healing process of mouth ulcers.
- Flowers: Used due to their high content of flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help alleviate pain and promote healing of mouth ulcers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the springtime.
- Cut the roots and leaves into small pieces to ensure optimal extraction.
- Combine the chopped taraxacum officinale plant material with 80 to 100 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain associated with these sores.
The tincture's active compound, glycyrrhizin, also has antimicrobial effects, preventing bacterial growth that can aggravate ulceration. Additionally, licorice tincture soothes the mucous membranes, providing a protective barrier against irritants and promoting faster healing.
As a result, herbal licorice tinctures offer a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms of mouth ulcers, promoting comfort and oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with mouth ulcers.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers.
- Liquiritigenin: This isoflavonoid has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help prevent infection and promote healing of mouth ulcers.
- Licoricidin: This flavonoid has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and promote the healing of mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers.
- Roots: They are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that helps in treating mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: They contain glycosides and flavonoids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that aid in healing mouth ulcers.
- Stems: They are rich in saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which work together to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing in mouth ulcers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest 30-40 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots to use in the tincture.
- Combine the harvested roots with 750 milliliters of 45% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks to allow for infusion.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean container.
- Transfer the resulting tincture to glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place.
8. Sambucus nigra
Elder tinctures helps with mouth ulcers because it contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce swelling and promote healing.
The antibacterial properties of elder tincture can also help to eliminate the bacteria that cause these painful sores, allowing for faster recovery.
Additionally, the soothing properties of elder tincture can provide relief from the discomfort and pain associated with mouth ulcers, making it a natural remedy that can offer quick and effective relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with mouth ulcers.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help soothe and reduce inflammation in the mouth, promoting healing of mouth ulcers.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections that may contribute to mouth ulcers.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce pain and promote healing of mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers.
- Flowers: Used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and heal the affected area.
- Leaves: Used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain and promote healing.
- Fruits: Used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers due to their astringent properties, which help reduce inflammation and promote the formation of new tissue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for mouth ulcers.
- Gather 500 grams of fresh sambucus nigra berries and clean them thoroughly with cold water.
- Chop the berries finely and combine them with 250 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow extraction to occur.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another glass container.
- Filter the tincture through a coffee filter and transfer it to a dark glass bottle for storage.
9. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The mucilages present in marshmallows coat and protect the ulcerated area, reducing discomfort and pain. Additionally, the tincture's antimicrobial properties help to combat bacteria that may be contributing to the formation of mouth ulcers.
As a result, the tincture provides quick relief from mouth sores and promotes healing by creating a protective barrier that allows the natural healing process to occur.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with mouth ulcers.
- Mucilages: Mucilages in Althaea officinalis help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, promoting healing and reducing discomfort associated with mouth ulcers.
- Gallic acid: Gallic acid, a phenolic compound in Althaea officinalis, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce swelling, prevent infection, and promote healing of mouth ulcers.
- Ictericin: Ictericin, an alkaloid in Althaea officinalis, is reported to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce pain, prevent infection, and promote healing of mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers.
- Roots: Althaea officinalis roots are the most commonly used part for making tinctures due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and protect mouth ulcers.
- Leaves: Althaea officinalis leaves are also used to make tinctures because they contain a significant amount of mucilage, similar to the roots, which aids in healing and protecting the mucous membranes.
- Stems: Althaea officinalis stems may be used to make tinctures, although less commonly than roots and leaves, as they still contain some mucilage and other beneficial compounds that can help to soothe and protect mouth ulcers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest 1:8 parts of fresh or dried roots and flowers of the plant in the early morning.
- Cleanse the plant material thoroughly by rinsing it with filtered water and gently shaking off excess.
- Use a 70-80 proof ethanol solvent to create a 1:5 plant to solvent ratio in a clean glass container.
- Steep the plant material in the solvent for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
10. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower tinctures helps with mouth ulcers because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and soothe irritated tissues.
The herb's antimicrobial compounds also help combat infections that can contribute to ulcer formation. Additionally, coneflower's antioxidant activity neutralizes free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation and promote healing.
As a result, purple coneflower tinctures provide rapid relief from mouth ulcers' discomfort, pain, and difficulty eating or speaking.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea tinctures that help with mouth ulcers.
- Ishagin: Ishagin, a polysaccharide, may help soothe mouth ulcers by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.
- Cichoric acid: Cichoric acid, a phenolic compound, has antimicrobial properties that may help combat bacterial infections that can exacerbate mouth ulcers.
- Alkylphenol glucosides: Alkylphenol glucosides, a type of saponin, may help reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair, contributing to the healing of mouth ulcers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers.
- Flowers: The flowers of Echinacea purpurea are used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers due to their high content of alkylamides and other compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea purpurea are used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers because they contain echinacosides and other glycosides that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea purpurea are used to make tinctures for mouth ulcers due to their ability to reduce inflammation and fight off infections with their active compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for mouth ulcers.
- Harvest fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves on a sunny day when they are in full bloom.
- Dry the collected plant material in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 1 hour.
- Combine 1 part dried echinacea purpurea with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking it daily to steep.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for mouth ulcers?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with mouth ulcers is a blend of calendula, aloe vera, and myrrh.
Calendula promotes tissue repair and reduces inflammation, while aloe vera soothes and calms the affected area. Myrrh has antimicrobial properties that help prevent infection and promote healing. Combine equal parts of each tincture in water and use it as a mouthwash several times a day.
This combination helps to speed up the healing process and reduces pain and discomfort associated with mouth ulcers.
What ailments similar to mouth ulcers are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to mouth ulcers that are treated with herbal tinctures are various types of skin irritations, such as eczema, acne, and dermatitis.
Herbal tinctures containing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and tea tree oil can help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
They may also be used to treat digestive issues like inflammatory bowel disease and gastritis, where symptoms like mouth sores or ulcers are present.