10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Difficulty Chewing

Herbal decoctions for difficulty chewing are traditional remedies made by steeping herbs in hot water to create a soothing liquid extract.

These herbal decoctions help alleviate symptoms of difficulty chewing, such as numbness, stiffness, or pain in the jaw and mouth, allowing individuals to eat with greater comfort and ease. Examples include slippery elm, meadowsweet, and ginger, which can reduce inflammation and relax tense muscles.

By improving eating experiences, these herbal decoctions enhance overall quality of life for those affected by difficulty chewing, enabling them to enjoy their favorite foods and socialize with loved ones without pain or discomfort.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with difficulty chewing because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that soothes inflammation in the mouth and throat.

This anti-inflammatory property reduces swelling and discomfort, allowing individuals to chew more easily. Additionally, licorice root has been shown to have anxiolytic properties, which can help alleviate anxiety-related jaw tension, often a contributing factor to difficulty chewing.

By calming these underlying issues, herbal licorice decoctions provide relief for those struggling with this common symptom.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with difficulty chewing by reducing inflammation and pain in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew and swallow.
• Liquiritigenin: As a flavonoid compound, liquiritigenin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing discomfort and difficulty chewing.
• Licoricidin: This isoflavone may help with difficulty chewing by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of oral wounds and ulcers, making it easier to chew and swallow.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for difficulty chewing.

• Roots: They are a primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making them effective in alleviating difficulty chewing.
• Leaves: The leaves contain glycosides and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain associated with difficulty chewing.
• Flowers: The flowers possess flavonoids and phenolic acids that may contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, potentially aiding in the relief of difficulty chewing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for difficulty chewing.

1. Harvest 10-20 roots of glycyrrhiza glabra preferably in the spring and summer seasons to ensure optimal potency.
2. Clean and dry the roots thoroughly to prevent contamination and ensure proper extraction of active compounds.
3. Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for efficient extraction in decoction.
4. Combine 5-10 grams of the chopped roots in 1 liter of water and bring to a boil to initiate extraction process.
5. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow for complete extraction of the active compounds into the water.

2. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow decoctions helps with difficulty chewing because of its unique ability to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.

The herb's gel-like substance forms a protective barrier that lubricates the oral cavity, reducing inflammation and irritation caused by conditions such as dry mouth, gum disease, or oral thrush.

This allows individuals with difficulty chewing due to discomfort or pain to regain their ability to properly masticate their food, improving overall digestion and nutrition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: Mucilages, such as galactomannans and arabinogalactans, help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, including arabinose, galactose, and rhamnose, have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help to calm irritated tissues and ease the pain associated with difficulty chewing.
• Glycosides: Glycosides, such as althaea glycosides, have been reported to have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help to reduce swelling and discomfort in the mouth and throat, making it easier to chew and swallow.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for difficulty chewing.

• Roots: They are rich in mucilage, a thick, protective substance that helps soothe and protect irritated tissues in the mouth and throat.
• Leaves: They contain similar mucilaginous properties as the roots, making them effective in reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.
• Stems: Although less commonly mentioned, some sources suggest that the stems of Althaea officinalis also contain mucilage, although to a lesser extent than the roots and leaves.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for difficulty chewing.

1. Weigh 10-20 grams of dried root material and place it in a clean glass container.
2. Combine the weighed root material with 250 milliliters of cold water in the container.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat for 10 to 20 minutes or until it reduces by half.
4. Remove the container from the heat source and let it steep for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

3. Ulmus rubra

Slippery elm decoctions helps with difficulty chewing because of its unique mucilaginous properties.

When consumed, slippery elm forms a soothing, protective coating on the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat, reducing inflammation and irritation that can make eating painful or challenging. This coating also lubricates the oral cavity, making it easier to chew and swallow food.

Additionally, slippery elm's anti-inflammatory compounds help to relax and calm the muscles involved in chewing, allowing for more comfortable and efficient eating.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra decoctions that help with difficulty chewing.

• Tannins: Tannins in Ulmus rubra decoctions may help with difficulty chewing by providing anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and pain in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew and swallow.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Ulmus rubra decoctions may help with difficulty chewing by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that promote healing and reduce inflammation in the oral cavity, thus alleviating discomfort associated with chewing.
• Alkaloids: Alkaloids like Berberine in Ulmus rubra decoctions may help with difficulty chewing by acting as antimicrobial agents that prevent infections and inflammation in the mouth and throat, thereby facilitating smooth and comfortable chewing and swallowing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make decoctions for difficulty chewing.

• Barks: The inner bark is used to make decoctions for digestive issues, including difficulty swallowing, as it forms a protective barrier in the digestive tract.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make decoctions that can help soothe gastrointestinal issues, which may be related to difficulty chewing.
• Roots: The roots are used to make decoctions that can aid in digestive health and may help alleviate symptoms of difficulty swallowing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for difficulty chewing.

1. Gather 1 to 2 pounds of fresh or dried ulmus rubra bark for decoction preparation.
2. Chop 2 to 3 tablespoons of the gathered bark into small pieces to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped ulmus rubra bark with 4 cups of water in a large saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 30 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.

4. Aloe vera

Aloe decoctions helps with difficulty chewing because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The gel-like substance extracted from the aloe vera plant contains bioactive compounds that can reduce swelling and inflammation in the mouth, jaw, and throat muscles. This relief allows individuals to chew more comfortably, making it easier to eat and digest food.

Additionally, aloe decoctions can soothe sore gums, tongue, and cheeks, further alleviating discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Aloin: Aloin is a type of anthraquinone glycoside that helps to break down and soften food, making it easier to chew and swallow.
• Saponins: Saponins are a group of triterpenoid glycosides that have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to reduce inflammation and pain in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew and swallow food.
• Glycoproteins: Glycoproteins are a type of polysaccharide that may help to stimulate saliva production, which can aid in breaking down food and making it easier to chew and swallow.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for difficulty chewing.

• Leaves: The gel from Aloe vera leaves is often used as it contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm the mouth, making it easier to chew and swallow.
• Stems: The latex from Aloe vera stems is sometimes used to make decoctions that can help reduce inflammation and pain in the mouth and throat, making it easier to chew and swallow.
• Roots: The roots of Aloe vera are occasionally used to make decoctions that can help stimulate digestion and improve oral health, which can aid in difficulty chewing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for difficulty chewing.

1. Harvest 2-3 fresh aloe vera leaves from a mature plant with thick green leaves.
2. Clean the leaves with lukewarm water to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
3. Peel the outer skin of the leaves to expose the clear gel inside.
4. Chop the peeled leaves into small pieces and soak them in 2 cups of water for 30 minutes.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to obtain the decoction.

5. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold decoctions helps with difficulty chewing because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The decoction's active compounds, such as calendic acid and triterpenoids, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain in the mouth and throat, making it easier to chew food. Additionally, pot marigold has antiseptic qualities that help combat bacterial infections that may be contributing to the difficulty chewing.

By soothing and healing inflamed tissues, pot marigold decoctions can provide relief from discomfort and improve overall oral function.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and pain in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew and swallow.
• Flavonoids: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, quercetin can help alleviate pain and inflammation in the oral cavity, improving chewing and eating abilities.
• Saponins: Saponins may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth and gums, which can contribute to difficulty chewing. Their anti-inflammatory properties can also help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with chewing.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used to make decoctions due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe mouth and gum inflammation associated with difficulty chewing.
• Leaves: Leaves are used to make decoctions as they contain flavonoids and saponins, which may help reduce inflammation and ease pain in the mouth and gums.
• Stems: Stems are used to make decoctions due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can aid in healing mouth sores and reducing inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for difficulty chewing.

1. Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning when the petals are fully open.
2. Dry the flowers in a warm dark place for 2 to 3 weeks to preserve their potency.
3. Crush the dried flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
4. Combine 1 teaspoon of the calendula powder with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass cup.
5. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes then strain and discard the solids before serving.

6. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with difficulty chewing because of its anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated gums, tongues, and cheeks.

The warm, comforting liquid also relaxes tense jaw muscles and eases pain caused by inflammation or infection. Additionally, ginger's natural digestive enzymes help stimulate saliva production, which aids in breaking down food for smoother swallowing and easier chewing.

This holistic approach can bring relief to those struggling with conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or mouth sores, allowing for a more comfortable and enjoyable eating experience.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with difficulty chewing.

• Gingerols and shogaols: These compounds, particularly 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the jaw and mouth, making it easier to chew.
• Curcuminoids: Curcumin, a major curcuminoid in ginger, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help to reduce swelling and oxidative stress in the jaw and mouth, thereby alleviating difficulty chewing.
• Terpenoids: Terpenoids, such as zingiberene and bisabolol, have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce inflammation and infection in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew and swallow food.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for difficulty chewing.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most used part due to their high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which are known for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.
• Roots: Roots are often used in decoctions for their ability to warm the body and improve digestion, which can help ease the symptoms of difficulty chewing caused by digestive issues or poor nutrient absorption.
• Buds: Buds are utilized in some decoctions for their mild and gentle warming effect, which can help stimulate digestion and alleviate some of the discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for difficulty chewing.

1. Harvest 1-2 teaspoons of dried zingiber officinale rhizomes from a reliable source.
2. Crush the dried zingiber officinale rhizomes into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Boil 1 cup of water in a saucepan over high heat for 5-7 minutes.
4. Add 1 teaspoon of the zingiber officinale powder to the boiling water and stir gently.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid reduces slightly.

7. Curcuma longa

Turmeric decoctions helps with difficulty chewing because it contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that reduces pain and inflammation in the mouth and jaw.

This can alleviate conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which often cause discomfort or stiffness when eating, speaking, or even opening the mouth.

By reducing inflammation and alleviating pain, turmeric decoctions can make it easier to chew, swallow, and enjoy a normal diet.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa decoctions that help with difficulty chewing.

• Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with difficulty chewing, thereby promoting comfort and relaxation.
• Demethoxycurcumin: A bioactive curcuminoid that has potent antioxidant properties, which help protect the mouth and gums from oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to easier chewing.
• Volatile oils: A terpene-rich fraction of Curcuma longa essential oil that has antimicrobial properties, helping to control oral infections and maintain oral hygiene, which can contribute to improved chewing ability.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for difficulty chewing.

• Rhyzomes: They are commonly used as it contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and pain in the mouth and jaw.
• Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa have been traditionally used to make decoctions for difficulty chewing due to their warm and drying properties, which can help reduce swelling and ease pain in the mouth.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used to make decoctions for difficulty chewing as they are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe and calm the mouth and jaw.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for difficulty chewing.

1. Harvest fresh or dried root of curcuma longa to prepare the herbal decoction.
2. Cut 1-2 teaspoons of the dried root or 2-3 teaspoons of fresh root into small pieces.
3. Combine the root pieces with 1 cup of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids.

8. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint decoctions helps with difficulty chewing because it relaxes the muscles in the jaw, temples, and face.

The menthol in peppermint has a soothing effect on the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the face and jaw to the brain. This relief can help reduce tension and pain associated with conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or fibromyalgia, making it easier to chew and swallow food.

The decoction's calming effects also promote a sense of relaxation, reducing overall stress and anxiety that can exacerbate oral motor difficulties.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with difficulty chewing.

• Menthol: Menthol is a terpene that helps with difficulty chewing by numbing the pain and reducing inflammation in the jaw and mouth, providing relief from dental issues and muscle spasms.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease pain in the jaw and mouth, making it easier to chew.
• Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the jaw and mouth, making it easier to chew and swallow.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for difficulty chewing.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high menthol content, which helps to numb and relax the jaw and mouth muscles.
• Roots: The roots of peppermint are often used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and pain in the jaw and mouth.
• Stems: The stems of peppermint contain a high concentration of menthol and other compounds that can help to ease tension and discomfort in the jaw and mouth.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for difficulty chewing.

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the morning for maximum oil content and potency.
2. Chop 2-3 teaspoons of the harvested plant material into smaller pieces for easier infusion.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 8 oz of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass cup.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half and the flavors have melded together.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container for consumption.

9. Salvia officinalis

Sage decoctions helps with difficulty chewing because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling in the mouth and throat.

This allows for smoother, more efficient food processing, making it easier to chew and swallow. Additionally, sage's expectorant qualities help loosen mucus, further clearing the airways and facilitating proper digestion.

As a result, individuals experiencing difficulty chewing can find relief through regular consumption of herbal sage decoctions, promoting overall digestive health and comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis decoctions that help with difficulty chewing.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound may help with difficulty chewing by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the mouth, which can contribute to pain and discomfort associated with conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
• Salvianolic acid a: This phenolic acid may help with difficulty chewing by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which can reduce pain and swelling in the mouth and jaw.
• Carvacrol: This monoterpene may help with difficulty chewing by acting as an antimicrobial agent, which can reduce the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause infection and inflammation in the mouth and jaw.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make decoctions for difficulty chewing.

• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with chewing difficulties.
• Roots: They are used because of their expected carminative and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help ease digestive issues and discomfort that may cause difficulty chewing.
• Buds: They are used due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe oral infections or inflammation causing chewing difficulties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for difficulty chewing.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of dried salvia officinalis leaves and flowers for decoction preparation.
2. Combine the dried herb with 2 liters of boiling water in a saucepan.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

10. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme decoctions helps with difficulty chewing because of its soothing properties that reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat.

The antimicrobial agents present in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, combat bacterial infections that can cause soreness and pain while eating.

Additionally, thyme's natural anti-inflammatory compounds, like rosmarinic acid, help to alleviate swelling and discomfort in the gums, cheeks, and tongue, making it easier for individuals with difficulty chewing to manage their daily nutrition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris decoctions that help with difficulty chewing.

• Carvacrol: This phenolic compound helps to relax the muscles and reduce spasms, making it easier to chew and swallow food.
• Thymol: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with difficulty chewing, making it more comfortable to eat.
• Bornyl acetate: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties, which can help to relax the muscles and reduce spasms in the jaw and other areas, making it easier to chew and swallow food.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make decoctions for difficulty chewing.

• Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of essential oils and antioxidants that help soothe and relax the muscles in the jaw and mouth.
• Stems: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and ease pain in the jaw and mouth.
• Roots: Used for their antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent infections and promote healing in the mouth and gums.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for difficulty chewing.

1. Harvest 30g of thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them immediately.
2. Crush 10g of the dried leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Combine 2g of the powdered thymus vulgaris with 200ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active ingredients to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container and discard the solids.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for difficulty chewing?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with difficulty chewing is a blend of ginger, slippery elm, and licorice root.

Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce pain and swelling, while slippery elm soothes and protects the mucous membranes, making it easier to swallow and chew. Licorice root adds anti-inflammatory benefits and helps to calm digestive issues, promoting relaxation and reducing discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.

This trio can be brewed together as a decoction to support oral health and alleviate discomfort.

What ailments similar to difficulty chewing are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to difficulty chewing that are treated with herbal decoctions are sore throats, gum inflammation, and mouth ulcers.

Herbs such as slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root are commonly used in decoctions to soothe and protect the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat, reducing pain and discomfort associated with these conditions.