By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For White Tongue
Herbal tinctures for white tongue are natural remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms associated with this condition.
White tongue, also known as leukoplakia, is a common issue where the tongue becomes coated in a thick, white layer of cells that can be caused by various factors such as poor oral hygiene, smoking, or nutritional deficiencies. Herbal tinctures like goldenseal and myrrh have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the appearance of white patches on the tongue, promoting healthy oral flora and alleviating bad breath and discomfort.
By using these tinctures, individuals can enjoy improved oral health, enhanced self-confidence, and a fresher sense of overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for white tongue, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Calendula officinalis
- 4. Echinacea angustifolia
- 5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Symphytum officinale
- 8. Althaea officinalis
- 9. Eucalyptus globulus
- 10. Rosmarinus officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for white tongue?
- What ailments similar to white tongue are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree tinctures helps with white tongue because of its antimicrobial properties that help to combat the underlying fungal or bacterial infections responsible for the condition.
The tannins present in tea tree oil have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, a common fungus associated with white tongue.
Additionally, the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil may also help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes, promoting a healthy oral environment and reducing the appearance of white tongue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia tinctures that help with white tongue.
- Cymene: Cymene has antimicrobial properties that may help combat the bacteria or fungi causing the white tongue condition, promoting a healthy oral environment.
- Cineole: Cineole's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the mouth, alleviating symptoms of white tongue.
- Linalool: Linalool's antimicrobial and antifungal properties may aid in controlling the growth of pathogens that contribute to white tongue, promoting a balanced oral microbiome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make tinctures for white tongue.
- Leaves: Known for their antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, which can be beneficial for various skin and mucous membrane issues.
- Buds: Used for their potential antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in soothing and healing various skin irritations.
- Leaves: Also used for their potential antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, which can be beneficial for various skin and mucous membrane issues, including potentially soothing a white tongue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for white tongue.
- Gather 250g of melaleuca alternifolia leaves and stems in a clean container to ensure quality.
- Combine the leaves and stems with 750ml of 95% ethanol in a glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks to allow infusion and extraction.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a separate container to remove solids and achieve clarity.
- Filter the liquid through activated charcoal and then through a coffee filter to achieve clarity and purity.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with white tongue because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and soothe irritations in the mouth and throat.
The tannins present in aloe vera also help to shrink bacteria and fungi that can cause white patches on the tongue. Additionally, aloe's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can damage oral tissue, promoting a healthy balance of flora in the mouth.
As a result, aloe tinctures can effectively treat white tongue symptoms, restoring a smooth and pink appearance to the tongue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with white tongue.
- Anthraquinones: These glycosidic compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce the growth of Candida and other pathogens that can contribute to white tongue.
- Furanocoumarins: This class of phenolic compounds exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, which can help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and promoting healing of the affected area.
- Saponins: These triterpenoid compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce the severity of white tongue by combating the underlying causes of the condition, such as oral thrush or other fungal infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for white tongue.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and reduce white tongue symptoms.
- Buds: Aloe vera buds are also used, as they contain a higher concentration of mucilages and other compounds that can help to coat and soothe the tongue, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- (not applicable as you asked for 2-3, if you want 3 then) stems: Aloe vera stems are sometimes used, as they contain a combination of compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and promote the growth of healthy tissue in the mouth, including the tongue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for white tongue.
- Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves select mature leaves with thick fleshy texture and green color.
- Chop aloe vera leaves into small pieces weighing 1 pound or 450 grams total.
- Combine chopped aloe vera with 80 to 100 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking jar every day.
- Strain aloe vera tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
3. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with white tongue because of its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The herb contains flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, alleviating symptoms such as soreness and redness associated with white tongue. Additionally, pot marigold's antifungal properties help combat Candida albicans, a common fungal infection that can cause white tongue.
By reducing inflammation and combating fungal overgrowth, pot marigold tinctures can promote a healthy oral environment, leading to a reduction in the appearance of white tongue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with white tongue.
- Phenolics: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause white tongue, while also soothing and calming the mucous membranes.
- Carotenoids: These pigments have antioxidant properties that help to protect the mucous membranes from oxidative stress and damage, promoting healthy tissue and reducing the appearance of white tongue.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that can cause white tongue, promoting a healthy oral environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for white tongue.
- Flowers: They are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe and reduce inflammation in the oral cavity, addressing white tongue symptoms.
- Leaves: The leaves contain antimicrobial properties that help combat oral infections and promote a healthy oral environment, which can help resolve white tongue.
- Roots: The roots of Calendula officinalis are known to have antiseptic and astringent properties, which can help reduce inflammation, combat infections, and promote healing in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for white tongue.
- Harvest fresh flowers of calendula officinalis at peak bloom for optimal potency.
- Clean and dry the flowers immediately to prevent spoilage and contamination.
- Use a 1:2 ratio of flower to solvent and combine 250ml of the solvent with 500g of the flowers.
- Steep the mixture in a glass container for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container.
4. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with white tongue because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tannins and polyphenols present in the herb have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, a common fungus that can cause white tongue. Additionally, the antiseptic properties help to reduce inflammation and soothe the affected area, promoting healthy gums and a clean, pinkish-white tongue.
As a result, Kansas coneflower tinctures provide a natural remedy for reducing the appearance of white tongue and maintaining oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with white tongue.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly echinacoside and echinulin, have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the presence of bacteria or other pathogens that contribute to white tongue.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy oral environment.
- Alkylamides: These compounds, including echinacein and isoechinacein, have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help boost the body's immune response and reduce inflammation, potentially alleviating symptoms of white tongue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for white tongue.
- Roots: They are the primary part used for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat infections and inflammation associated with white tongue.
- Leaves: They contain compounds that help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and discomfort in the mouth and throat.
- Barks: They are sometimes used in combination with roots to enhance the overall effect of the tincture, providing additional anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for white tongue.
- Harvest fresh roots of echinacea angustifolia in late fall when plant is dormant with a spade.
- Clean and wash the roots to remove dirt and debris with cold running water.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and dry them in a low-temperature oven at 100 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours to preserve.
- Combine the dried roots with 80 proof vodka in a ratio of 1 part roots to 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks then strain and discard the solids.
5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with white tongue because it has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing inflammation and irritation.
The licorice root extract also possesses antimicrobial properties, which help to eliminate any underlying infections or bacteria that may be contributing to the condition.
Additionally, licorice tinctures can help to restore the natural balance of flora in the mouth, promoting a healthy oral environment and reducing the appearance of white tongue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with white tongue.
- Licorice saponins: They help reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the mouth, which can become irritated and inflamed due to conditions like oral thrush or a fungal infection that may cause white tongue.
- Flavonoids: They possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with white tongue, promoting overall oral health and reducing symptoms.
- Glycyrrhizin: It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the underlying infections or inflammation that may be contributing to the development of white tongue, promoting a healthy oral microbiome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for white tongue.
- Roots: Rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and promotes healing.
- Roots: Glycyrrhizin in roots also has antibacterial properties, helping combat underlying infections.
- Roots: Additionally, the roots are a primary source of antioxidants that help protect the mucous membranes and promote tissue repair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for white tongue.
- Harvest clean and dry the roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in a well-ventilated area with a clean tool.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase their surface area.
- Combine one part of the chopped roots with two parts of a high proof solvent such as ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks or until the roots are fully extracted.
- Strain the tincture through a coffee filter into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with white tongue because of its unique ability to stimulate saliva production and promote healthy digestion.
The bitter compounds present in dandelion root help to stimulate the taste buds, increasing salivary flow and reducing the buildup of bacteria that can cause a white coating on the tongue.
Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce redness and swelling associated with white tongue, promoting a healthier and more balanced oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with white tongue.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in dandelion tinctures have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth, potentially addressing the cause of a white tongue.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpenoid saponin found in dandelion that has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat oral infections and maintain a healthy oral microbiome, reducing the likelihood of a white tongue.
- Inulin: Inulin, a polysaccharide found in dandelion, has prebiotic properties that can help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the mouth, maintaining a healthy oral microbiome and potentially preventing conditions that lead to a white tongue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for white tongue.
- Leaves: Due to their bitter compounds, which may help stimulate digestion and alleviate digestive issues often associated with white tongue.
- Roots: As they are rich in inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber, which may help support gut health and reduce inflammation.
- Flowers: As they contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce swelling in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for white tongue.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers on a sunny morning for optimal potency.
- Chop 1 part of the fresh taraxacum officinale material into small pieces to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped taraxacum officinale material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional gentle shaking.
- Strain the liquid mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
7. Symphytum officinale
Comfrey tinctures helps with white tongue because it has potent antibacterial properties that can help combat the overgrowth of yeast and bacteria in the mouth, which often causes a white or grayish coating on the tongue.
Additionally, comfrey's anti-inflammatory compounds can reduce swelling and irritation in the mucous membranes, allowing for a healthy balance of flora to be maintained.
This natural remedy can provide relief from symptoms associated with white tongue, promoting a clean and healthy oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale tinctures that help with white tongue.
- Isoalantolactone: This sesquiterpene lactone is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the oral mucosa, addressing the underlying cause of white tongue.
- Alkaloids: These phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, which can help combat oxidative stress and infections that may contribute to the development of white tongue.
- Saponins: These triterpene saponins have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the oral cavity, potentially alleviating symptoms of white tongue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make tinctures for white tongue.
- Leaves: Used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth.
- Roots: Utilized for their expectorant and antiseptic properties, which aid in clearing mucus and reducing bacterial growth in the mouth.
- Flowers: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for white tongue.
- Harvest fresh symphytum officinale roots in late summer or early fall when they are most potent.
- Clean and dry the harvested roots in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Chop the dried symphytum officinale roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a herb cutter.
- Steep 1 part chopped symphytum officinale roots in 2 parts high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle discard the solids.
8. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with white tongue because they provide a soothing, anti-inflammatory effect on the mucous membranes of the mouth.
The saponins present in marshmallow root have been shown to reduce inflammation and irritation, helping to alleviate symptoms such as swelling, redness, and pain associated with white tongue.
Additionally, the demulcent properties of marshmallow tinctures create a protective barrier that shields the tongue from irritants and soothes any existing discomfort, promoting healthy oral mucosa and a clear tongue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with white tongue.
- Mucilages: Mucilages in Althaea officinalis help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing inflammation and promoting healing of the white patches associated with white tongue.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Althaea officinalis possess antimicrobial properties, which may help combat the underlying bacterial or fungal infections contributing to white tongue.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Althaea officinalis have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the mouth, alleviating symptoms of white tongue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for white tongue.
- Roots: They are rich in mucilage, a soothing agent that helps reduce inflammation and provides relief for sore throats and white tongue.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and fight off the underlying infection causing white tongue.
- Barks: They also contain mucilage and other compounds that may help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with white tongue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for white tongue.
- Harvest fresh roots of the plant with a minimum of 10 percent moisture content by weight.
- Dry the harvested roots in a temperature-controlled environment at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces with a size of about 1-2 millimeters.
- Combine the chopped roots with 50 percent ethanol by volume in a ratio of 1:3 for 4 weeks.
- Filter the tincture through a 0.2 micron filter and store it in a dark glass bottle.
9. Eucalyptus globulus
Tasmanian blue gum tinctures helps with white tongue because it possesses antimicrobial properties that effectively combat Candida albicans, a common cause of oral thrush and white tongue.
The tannins present in the tincture also help to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the mouth, promoting a healthy balance of flora and reducing symptoms such as redness, swelling, and thickening of the tongue coating.
As a result, the tincture can help restore a clean and pink appearance to the tongue, improving overall oral health and wellbeing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus tinctures that help with white tongue.
- Eucalyptol: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that help combat the bacteria and fungi causing the white coating on the tongue, promoting a healthy oral environment.
- Catechin: As a phenolic compound, catechin exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may aid in reducing inflammation and eliminating the bacteria that contribute to white tongue.
- Caffeic acid: This phenolic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the mouth, contributing to the healing and prevention of white tongue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make tinctures for white tongue.
- Leaves: These are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and combat bacteria.
- Buds: The buds of Eucalyptus globulus contain a high amount of essential oils, which are used to create tinctures that can help to reduce the severity of white tongue.
- Barks: The bark of Eucalyptus globulus contains a high amount of tannins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and treat white tongue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for white tongue.
- Harvest fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated, using clean scissors or pruning shears.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer, away from direct sunlight and heat, for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part dried eucalyptus globulus leaves with 2 parts 95% grain alcohol in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to macerate for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day or two.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.
10. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary tinctures helps with white tongue because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and irritation in the mouth.
The herb's antimicrobial compounds also combat bacteria and fungi that can cause an overgrowth of yeast on the tongue, leading to a white coating.
Additionally, rosemary tincture's natural antibacterial properties help to eliminate bad breath and restore a healthy balance of flora in the oral cavity, promoting a pink and healthy-looking tongue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis tinctures that help with white tongue.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that can cause white tongue, promoting a healthy oral environment.
- Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat the underlying causes of white tongue, such as oral infections and inflammation.
- Cineole: This terpene has expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the mouth, which can aid in reducing white tongue symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make tinctures for white tongue.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have antimicrobial properties that help combat oral infections and inflammation associated with white tongue.
- Flowers: They contain essential oils and flavonoids that can help soothe and reduce inflammation in the oral cavity, contributing to a healthy oral environment.
- Stems: They also contain essential oils and flavonoids, which can help promote oral health and reduce the symptoms of white tongue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for white tongue.
- Harvest the fresh or dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated with 1 part of leaves.
- Combine the rosmarinus officinalis leaves with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Shake the jar daily to facilitate the extraction of the active compounds from the rosmarinus officinalis.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container to remove the plant material.
- Store the final tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years in a glass dropper bottle.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for white tongue?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with white tongue is often a blend of Echinacea, Goldenseal, and Clove.
Echinacea helps to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. Goldenseal has antibacterial properties that target the underlying infection. Clove provides antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe the affected area.
Additionally, incorporating tinctures like Licorice root and Sage can aid in soothing the mucous membranes and promoting a healthy oral environment.
What ailments similar to white tongue are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to white tongue that are treated with herbal tinctures are thrush, oral candidiasis, and mouth ulcers.
Herbal tinctures containing antifungal properties like tea tree oil, garlic, and goldenseal have been used to combat fungal overgrowth in the mouth, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
Other remedies may also target underlying imbalances, such as stress and digestive issues, which can contribute to oral health problems.