By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For White Tongue
Herbal decoctions for white tongue are a natural remedy that involves steeping herbs in hot water to create a soothing liquid extract.
These decoctions can help alleviate white tongue symptoms, such as inflammation and infection, by reducing bacteria and fungi growth on the tongue. For example, licorice root and slippery elm decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and soothe irritation.
By using these herbal decoctions, individuals with white tongue can improve their oral health, boost their confidence in social situations, and enjoy better overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for white tongue, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Mentha x piperita
- 2. Salvia officinalis
- 3. Taraxacum officinale
- 4. Althaea officinalis
- 5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 6. Echinacea purpurea
- 7. Calendula officinalis
- 8. Taraxacum kok saghyz
- 9. Achillea millefolium
- 10. Urtica dioica
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for white tongue?
- What ailments similar to white tongue are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint decoctions helps with white tongue because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction can help to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause a buildup of plaque and debris on the surface of the tongue, leading to the characteristic white or creamy coating. Additionally, peppermint's soothing effects can help to calm irritated tongues and promote healthy mouth flora.
By regularly consuming peppermint decoctions, individuals may find relief from the discomfort and unsightly appearance of a white tongue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with white tongue.
- Menthol: Menthol has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the growth of bacteria and inflammation that can cause white tongue.
- Menthone: Menthone has antimicrobial properties that can help combat the bacterial overgrowth that can lead to white tongue.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the mouth, potentially alleviating symptoms of white tongue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for white tongue.
- Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which have antibacterial properties that help combat oral infections.
- Stems: Utilized for their similar properties to leaves, as they also contain essential oils that aid in reducing inflammation and fighting off bacteria.
- Roots: Employed for their robust content of menthol, which helps to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth, promoting a healthy recovery from white tongue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for white tongue.
- Gather 1/4 cup of fresh or 2 tablespoons of dried mentha x piperita leaves for decoction preparation.
- Boil 1 cup of water in a saucepan for 5 minutes before adding the herbs for infusion.
- Combine the gathered mentha x piperita leaves with the boiling water in the saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture for 5-10 minutes over low heat to release the active compounds from the leaves.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup for consumption.
2. Salvia officinalis
Sage decoctions helps with white tongue because of its remarkable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction is able to target the underlying causes of a white tongue, such as bacterial overgrowth or inflammation, and effectively eliminate them.
By reducing the presence of bacteria and soothing irritated tissues, sage decoctions promote a healthy balance in the mouth and throat, allowing for the resolution of white tongue symptoms and restoring a normal tongue appearance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis decoctions that help with white tongue.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with white tongue.
- Ursolic acid: A triterpenoid that exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat the underlying infections and inflammation causing white tongue.
- Salvianolic acid: A phenolic compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting healing and resolution of white tongue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make decoctions for white tongue.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of essential oils, which are responsible for their medicinal properties.
- Roots: The roots of Salvia officinalis contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and combat infection, making them effective in treating white tongue.
- Stems: The stems of the plant contain a high amount of glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe the affected area and reduce discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for white tongue.
- Harvest 25-30 fresh leaves of salvia officinalis in the morning or afternoon when they are at their peak potency.
- Clean the leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris by gently rinsing with cold water.
- Chop the leaves into smaller pieces to increase their surface area for easier extraction.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of chopped salvia officinalis leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove solids.
3. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with white tongue because it has natural antibacterial properties that combat the underlying infections causing the condition.
The bitter compounds in dandelion root also help to stimulate digestion and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to a healthy balance of oral bacteria and a reduction in white tongue symptoms.
Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory effects can soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes, promoting a clear and healthy appearance of the tongue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with white tongue.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpenoid saponin that has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the mouth and tongue, contributing to the resolution of white tongue.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid phenolic compound with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help combat oral infections and inflammation that can contribute to the development of white tongue.
- Phenolic acids: A group of compounds, including caffeic acid and ferulic acid, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect the oral mucosa from oxidative damage and inflammation, potentially alleviating symptoms of white tongue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for white tongue.
- Roots: The roots are often used in decoctions to treat various health issues, including white tongue, due to their purported anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are commonly used in decoctions to help treat conditions like white tongue, as they contain compounds with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Stems: The stems of the plant are sometimes used in decoctions to treat white tongue and other health issues, possibly due to their high water content and potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for white tongue.
- Gather taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in a quantity of 30-60 grams for a standard decoction.
- Rinse the taraxacum officinale roots and leaves with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
- Combine the cleaned taraxacum officinale roots and leaves with 1 liter of boiling water in a pot.
- Simmer the taraxacum officinale mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to extract.
- Strain the taraxacum officinale decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids.
4. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow decoctions helps with white tongue because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The saponins present in marshmallows can help to reduce inflammation in the mouth, which is often associated with white tongue. Additionally, marshmallow decoctions can help to coat and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, allowing them to heal and recover from any irritation or damage that may be contributing to the white tongue.
This natural remedy can provide relief from discomfort and promote a healthy, balanced oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis decoctions that help with white tongue.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy oral environment, which can help alleviate white tongue symptoms.
- Gallic acid: Gallic acid has antimicrobial properties that can help combat oral infections and inflammation that may contribute to white tongue, while also reducing oxidative stress and promoting tissue repair.
- Althaea flavonoids: Althaea flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce swelling and promote healing in the mouth, leading to a reduction in white tongue symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for white tongue.
- Roots: They are used due to their high mucilage content, which helps soothe and protect the mucous membranes.
- Leaves: They are used for their ability to contribute to the overall mucilage content and add to the medicinal properties of the decoction.
- Stems: They are used due to their contribution to the overall mucilage content and the ease of harvesting and processing them.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for white tongue.
- Harvest 10 to 20 grams of dried root of althaea officinalis from a trusted source.
- Rinse the dried root in cold running water to remove any impurities.
- Combine the rinsed root with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a clean saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes over low heat to release the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with white tongue because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling in the tongue, making it a natural remedy for soothing irritated tongues.
The decoction's demulcent qualities also coat and protect the tongue, preventing further irritation and promoting healing. Additionally, licorice root is known to have antimicrobial properties, which help combat fungal and bacterial infections that can cause white patches on the tongue.
By drinking herbal licorice decoctions regularly, individuals can promote a healthy, pink tongue and alleviate symptoms associated with oral thrush and other tongue irritations.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with white tongue.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, may help with white tongue by its anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation in the oral mucosa and promote the recovery of a healthy oral environment.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, a type of phenolic compound, may help with white tongue by their antioxidant properties, which can neutralize free radicals and promote the healing of oral tissues.
- Licoricidin: Licoricidin, a flavonoid glycoside, may help with white tongue by its antimicrobial properties, which can inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that may contribute to oral infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for white tongue.
- Roots: The roots are commonly used as they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and has antimicrobial properties.
- Barks: The barks may be used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes.
- Leaves: The leaves are sometimes used in decoctions for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in soothing the tongue and other affected areas.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for white tongue.
- Gather 5 grams of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra and 2 cups of water for decoction.
- Heat the water in a saucepan over medium heat for 10 minutes to 20 minutes.
- Add the dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra to the hot water and let steep for 10 minutes to 15 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption in 1 to 2 cups doses.
6. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower decoctions helps with white tongue because it contains antioxidants and antimicrobial properties that can help combat the underlying causes of this condition.
The anti-inflammatory compounds in purple coneflower may also reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with white tongue.
Additionally, its antibacterial properties can help eliminate bacteria that may be contributing to the condition, promoting a healthy oral environment and resolving symptoms such as bad breath and taste disturbances.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea decoctions that help with white tongue.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the growth of bacteria or fungi that may be contributing to the white tongue condition.
- Echinacoside: As an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, Echinacoside may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the oral cavity, alleviating symptoms associated with white tongue.
- Cichoric acid: Cichoric acid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat infections and reduce inflammation in the mouth, potentially leading to the improvement of white tongue symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make decoctions for white tongue.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea purpurea are commonly used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Echinacea purpurea leaves are often used in decoctions because of their antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the underlying infection causing the white tongue.
- Flowers: The flowers of Echinacea purpurea are traditionally used in decoctions to take advantage of their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can aid in soothing the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for white tongue.
- Gather 30-60 grams of dried echinacea purpurea root and flowers and clean them thoroughly.
- Crush the dried echinacea purpurea root and flowers into smaller pieces using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the crushed echinacea purpurea with 1 cup of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Simmer the echinacea purpurea decoction for 5-10 minutes or until it reaches a desired strength.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container for storage.
7. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with white tongue because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's flavonoids, such as apigenin and luteolin, possess antibacterial and antifungal activities that can help combat the growth of Candida albicans, a common culprit behind white tongue. Additionally, the decoction's soothing effects can reduce inflammation and discomfort in the mouth and throat, promoting a healthy oral environment and restoring normal tongue color.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to effectively address white tongue and promote overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with white tongue.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and irritation in the mouth, contributing to the disappearance of a white tongue.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds possess antimicrobial properties, which can help eliminate or reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi that may be contributing to the white appearance of the tongue.
- Saponins: These compounds have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the mucous membranes in the mouth from oxidative stress and promote healing, thereby reducing the appearance of a white tongue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for white tongue.
- Flowers: They are rich in flavonoids and carotenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help combat the underlying causes of white tongue.
- Leaves: The leaves contain essential oils and other compounds that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, making them effective in treating white tongue.
- Stems: The stems of Calendula officinalis contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that help reduce inflammation and fight off infections that may be contributing to white tongue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for white tongue.
- Gather dried calendula officinalis flowers in an amount equal to 1-2 teaspoons per cup of water.
- Combine the flowers with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass or ceramic container.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has cooled to a comfortable temperature.
- Strain the liquid through a piece of cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before use or discard it.
8. Taraxacum kok saghyz
Wild potato decoctions helps with white tongue because it has potent antibacterial properties that effectively combat the bacterial and fungal infections that cause this condition.
The decoction's antimicrobial compounds, such as glycosides and saponins, help to reduce the growth of harmful microorganisms on the tongue, allowing for a return to a healthy pink color.
Additionally, wild potato decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe the inflamed mucous membranes that contribute to white tongue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum kok saghyz decoctions that help with white tongue.
- Apolypodial glycosides: These compounds have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the bacterial load and inflammation associated with white tongue, promoting a healthy oral environment.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the oral cavity, reducing the appearance of a white tongue.
- Saponins: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help control the growth of bacteria and fungi that contribute to white tongue, while also reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy oral environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild potato used to make decoctions for white tongue.
- Roots: They are used to make decoctions for their diuretic properties, which can help remove toxins and bacteria from the mouth, potentially addressing a white tongue.
- Leaves: They are used to make decoctions for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth, contributing to a healthy tongue appearance.
- Flowers: They are used to make decoctions for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help soothe and calm the tongue, potentially addressing a white tongue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild potato for white tongue.
- Harvest 3-4 cups of taraxacum kok saghyz roots and leaves fresh from the plant in the morning.
- Wash the harvested material in cold water for 10 minutes to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop the washed material into small pieces and steep it in 6 cups of boiling water.
- Reduce heat to a simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove solids.
9. Achillea millefolium
Yarrow decoctions helps with white tongue because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant's active compounds, such as flavonoids and terpenes, help to reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, which can contribute to the development of a white tongue. Additionally, yarrow's antimicrobial properties help to eliminate harmful bacteria that can cause bad breath and other oral health issues associated with white tongue.
By using a yarrow decoction as a mouthwash or gargle, individuals can promote a healthy oral environment and alleviate symptoms of white tongue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium decoctions that help with white tongue.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce bacterial overgrowth and inflammation in the mouth that contribute to white tongue.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Achillea millefolium have been found to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the oral mucosa and reduce oxidative stress that may lead to white tongue.
- Rosmarinic acid: As a polyphenolic compound with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, rosmarinic acid in Achillea millefolium decoctions may help combat oral infections and inflammation that contribute to white tongue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make decoctions for white tongue.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria associated with white tongue.
- Flowers: The flowers are used for their astringent properties to help reduce swelling and dry up the surface of the tongue, promoting healing.
- Roots: The roots are used for their bitter and antiseptic properties to help stimulate digestion and reduce bacterial growth in the mouth, treating the underlying cause of white tongue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for white tongue.
- Harvest achillea millefolium flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure freshness.
- Gently chop 2 tablespoons of the freshly harvested plant material to release its volatile oils and flavors.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 1 liter of boiling water and let it steep for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids and reserve the liquid.
- Allow the decoction to cool and then refrigerate or freeze it for later use within 24 hours.
10. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle decoctions helps with white tongue because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The decoction's bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and terpenes, penetrate deep into the mucous membranes, soothing irritated tissues and reducing inflammation that can cause a whitish coating to form on the tongue. Additionally, nettle's natural antibacterial and antiviral agents help combat underlying infections that may contribute to the development of white tongue.
Regular consumption of stinging nettle decoctions can promote a healthy oral environment, leading to a reduction in white tongue symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with white tongue.
- Flavonoids: They help with white tongue by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which may reduce inflammation and irritation in the oral mucosa.
- Phenolic acids: They aid in treating white tongue by displaying antioxidant properties, which can neutralize free radicals and promote a healthy oral environment.
- Volatile oils: They help with white tongue by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, which can help eliminate fungal or bacterial infections that may cause oral discomfort and discoloration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for white tongue.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of urticine and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Roots: The roots are used because they contain a higher concentration of medicinal compounds, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which aid in treating oral health issues like white tongue.
- Stems: The stems are used due to their rich content of saponins and other bioactive compounds that help soothe and calm the mouth, gums, and tongue, alleviating white tongue symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for white tongue.
- Harvest the fresh or dried aerial parts of urtica dioica in late spring or early summer when the plant is in full growth.
- Chop the aerial parts into small pieces weighing approximately 1 to 2 ounces per 8 ounces of water.
- Combine the chopped parts with 8 ounces of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to release the herb's medicinal properties.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for white tongue?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with white tongue is a blend of sage, peppermint, and licorice root.
Sage's antibacterial properties help combat infection, while peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling. Licorice root's soothing properties calm the mucous membranes, promoting a healthy balance of good bacteria in the mouth. This combination can be brewed together as a tea and consumed after meals to promote a balanced oral microbiome and alleviate white tongue symptoms.
Regular consumption may lead to a faster recovery.
What ailments similar to white tongue are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to white tongue that are treated with herbal decoctions are various oral infections and diseases, such as gingivitis, stomatitis, and candidiasis.
Herbal decoctions made from plants like turmeric, neem, and clove have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help soothe and heal mouth sores, reduce inflammation, and combat fungal infections.
These herbal remedies can be used to treat various oral health issues, promoting a healthy mouth and reducing the risk of complications.