By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Difficulty Chewing
Herbal tinctures for difficulty chewing are liquid extracts made from plants and botanicals that can help alleviate issues related to chewing, such as dry mouth, pain, or stiffness.
These tinctures work by stimulating saliva production, reducing inflammation, and improving muscle function. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with difficulty chewing include Sage, Slippery Elm, and Marshmallow Root. For instance, Sage has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce gum swelling and pain, while Slippery Elm helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth.
By using these tinctures, individuals struggling with difficulty chewing can regain confidence in their ability to eat and enjoy their favorite foods, improving overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for difficulty chewing, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Echinacea angustifolia
- 3. Calendula officinalis
- 4. Curcuma longa
- 5. Ulmus rubra
- 6. Althaea officinalis
- 7. Aloe vera
- 8. Zingiber officinale
- 9. Mentha x piperita
- 10. Sambucus nigra
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for difficulty chewing?
- What ailments similar to difficulty chewing are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with difficulty chewing because of its soothing properties that ease inflammation and irritation in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.
The herbal extract contains glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and pain associated with conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
This natural remedy also helps to relax tense muscles and calm irritated mucous membranes, making it easier to chew and swallow food.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with difficulty chewing.
- Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures may help reduce inflammation and swelling in the mouth and throat, making it easier to chew and swallow.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes in the mouth and throat, reducing discomfort while chewing.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and pain in the mouth and throat, making it easier to chew and swallow food.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and relax the muscles in the jaw and mouth.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are sometimes used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing, likely due to their supposed ability to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra may be used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing, possibly due to their potential anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for difficulty chewing.
- Gather 100g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots, 70% vodka or glycerin as solvent, and a clean glass jar.
- Combine the dried roots with 500ml of vodka or glycerin in a 1:5 ratio in the glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 6 to 8 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles, label and store in a cool dark place.
2. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with difficulty chewing because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce swelling in the mouth and throat.
The tincture's ability to soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes can also ease discomfort and pain associated with gum disease or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, making it easier for individuals to chew and enjoy their meals without discomfort.
Additionally, Kansas coneflower's antimicrobial properties can help combat bad breath and other oral health issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with difficulty chewing.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew and swallow.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Echinacea angustifolia may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the oral cavity, promoting a healthy environment for oral function and potentially alleviating difficulty chewing.
- Saponins: Saponins have been found to exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help combat oral infections and promote a balanced oral microbiome, reducing the risk of inflammation and discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing.
- Roots: Rich in compounds that may help with inflammation and pain relief, which can be beneficial for conditions that cause difficulty chewing.
- Leaves: Contain chemicals that may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe mouth and gum issues.
- Stems: May contain compounds that contribute to the plant's overall anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, potentially aiding in conditions that cause difficulty chewing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for difficulty chewing.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in late fall or early spring when the plant is dormant, typically around 30 grams.
- Clean the roots thoroughly and chop them into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped roots with 80 proof vodka in a 1:2 ratio, such as 30 grams of roots to 60 milliliters of vodka.
- Steep the mixture in a dark glass jar for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking it every day or two, to allow for extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids and reserving the liquid.
3. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with difficulty chewing because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling in the mouth and throat.
The tincture's antimicrobial agents also combat bacterial infections that can cause soreness and discomfort, allowing for easier food consumption. Additionally, pot marigold's soothing effects calm irritated tissues, making it simpler to chew and swallow.
By reducing inflammation and alleviating discomfort, herbal pot marigold tinctures provide relief from difficulty chewing and promote a healthier oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with difficulty chewing.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and pain associated with difficulty chewing, thereby making it easier to perform the action.
- Flavonoids: As antioxidants, flavonoids can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which may contribute to difficulty chewing, and promote overall oral health.
- Tannins: Tannins have astringent properties that may help reduce inflammation and bleeding in the mouth, which can make it easier to chew and swallow food.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe mouth and gum inflammation.
- Leaves: They are used due to their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help reduce gum inflammation and promote healing.
- Stems: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and promote overall oral health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for difficulty chewing.
- Harvest the flowers by cutting them with scissors at the base of the stem early in the morning.
- Dry the flowers in a warm place for 1-2 weeks or by using a dehydrator at 95°f.
- Combine 100g of dried flowers with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it every day for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle.
4. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with difficulty chewing because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain in the mouth and jaw.
The curcumin in turmeric tincture also acts as a natural analgesic, providing relief from discomfort and stiffness. Additionally, turmeric's antioxidant properties help to soothe and calm irritated tissues, making it easier to chew and swallow food with ease.
This can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or fibromyalgia that affect the mouth and jaw.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with difficulty chewing.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, helps with difficulty chewing by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the oral cavity, which can contribute to conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Volitin: Volitin, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with difficulty chewing, such as in conditions like trigeminal neuralgia.
- Beta-curcumene: Beta-curcumene, a sesquiterpene, possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help relieve pain and discomfort in the jaw and mouth, making it easier to chew and swallow.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing.
- Roots: The Roots of Curcuma longa are also widely used in tinctures for difficulty chewing, as they contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the oral cavity.
- Buds: The Buds of Curcuma longa are sometimes used in tinctures for difficulty chewing, as they are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe and calm the oral tissues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for difficulty chewing.
- Harvest mature turmeric roots at dawn when the moisture content is at its lowest peak.
- Wash the roots thoroughly in cool water to remove dirt and debris from the harvest.
- Chop the washed roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a root cutter.
- Steep the chopped roots in a neutral solvent like ethanol or glycerin at a 1:5 ratio for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container and discard the solids.
5. Ulmus rubra
Slippery elm tinctures helps with difficulty chewing because of its unique mucilaginous properties, which soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat.
When taken as a supplement, the herb coats and lubricates the affected areas, reducing inflammation and discomfort caused by conditions such as dry mouth, gum disease, or oral surgery. This natural coating also helps to ease the passage of food through the digestive system, making eating and swallowing easier.
As a result, slippery elm tinctures can provide relief from difficulty chewing and promote overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra tinctures that help with difficulty chewing.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the mouth, making chewing and swallowing easier.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe mouth ulcers, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain associated with difficulty chewing.
- Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds can help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in the mouth, promoting healing and comfort that makes eating and chewing less painful.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing.
- Barks: Used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing due to its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing due to its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Buds: Used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing due to its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for difficulty chewing.
- Harvest ulmus rubra leaves and twigs in late spring or early summer when plant is in full growth.
- Chop 1 part ulmus rubra plant material to 1 part vegetable glycerin in a clean glass jar.
- Combine chopped plant material and glycerin in the jar and let it sit at room temperature for 2 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
- Transfer the liquid herbal tincture into dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place.
6. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with difficulty chewing because of its soothing properties that calm inflammation in the mouth and throat.
The extract's mucilaginous compounds coat and protect the mucous membranes, reducing discomfort and pain associated with gum disease, dry mouth, and sore throats. As a result, it becomes easier to chew food without experiencing discomfort or pain.
This natural remedy promotes healthy digestion and reduces the risk of swallowing difficulties, allowing individuals to enjoy their meals without distress.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with difficulty chewing.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides in Althaea officinalis tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the mouth, making it easier to chew and swallow.
- Gallic acid: Gallic acid is a phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth, alleviating symptoms of difficulty chewing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing.
- Roots: They are used to make tinctures because they contain mucilage, a thick, protective substance that soothes and lubricates the mucous membranes, making it easier to chew and swallow.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures because they also contain mucilage, which helps to calm inflammation and promote healing in the mouth and throat, making it easier to chew and swallow.
- Barks: They are used to make tinctures because they contain mucilage and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for difficulty chewing.
- Harvest 1 part of dried roots of althaea officinalis from a clean and dry environment for long-term storage.
- Grind 1 part of the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Combine the ground roots with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar for 2 weeks.
- Shake the jar containing the mixture 2 times a day for 2 weeks to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids for long-term storage.
7. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with difficulty chewing because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated gums, mouth tissues, and joints.
This relief enables individuals to comfortably chew their food without pain or discomfort. Additionally, aloe's gel-like consistency can help lubricate the mouth, reducing dryness and irritation associated with conditions like dry mouth syndrome.
By alleviating these issues, herbal aloe tinctures provide effective support for individuals experiencing difficulty chewing due to oral health concerns or other underlying causes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with difficulty chewing.
- Aloin: Aloein, a glycoside and anthraquinone derivative, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain associated with difficulty chewing, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, a phenolic compound, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate pain and inflammation in the jaw and mouth, thereby facilitating easier chewing.
- Glucomannan: Glucomannan, a type of polysaccharide, has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that may help reduce swelling and discomfort in the mouth and jaw, making it easier to chew and swallow food.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing.
- Leaves: They are used for tinctures due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help ease pain and discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.
- Rhyzomes: Aloe vera rhyzomes contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making them suitable for tinctures to aid in oral health and ease difficulty chewing.
- Seeds: Aloe vera seeds have been traditionally used to create tinctures that can help soothe and calm the mouth, reducing discomfort and pain associated with difficulty chewing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for difficulty chewing.
- Harvest aloe vera leaves when mature and firm, cutting them from the base of the plant for maximum potency.
- Wash the harvested aloe vera leaves thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris, then pat them dry.
- Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and weigh 250 grams, then combine them with 750 milliliters of 80 percent ethanol.
- Steep the aloe vera and ethanol mixture in a clean glass jar for 2 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container, discard the solids and store the tincture.
8. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with difficulty chewing because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and relax the muscles in the jaw, tongue, and mouth.
The tincture's warm and comforting effects help to reduce stiffness and discomfort associated with conditions such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder and fibromyalgia.
Additionally, ginger's digestive benefits can help to alleviate nausea and bloating that may be exacerbating difficulty chewing, allowing for a smoother and more comfortable eating experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with difficulty chewing.
- Gingerols: These iridoid compounds have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols also possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to the relief of pain and inflammation in the jaw and mouth area.
- Zingiberene: As a terpene, zingiberene has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and inflammation in the jaw and mouth, making it easier to chew and swallow.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing.
- Rhyzomes: The fleshy underground stem of the plant is used, as it contains the highest concentration of active compounds that help in digestion and relief from chewing difficulties.
- Roots: The roots of the plant are also used, as they are known to possess anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing swelling and pain in the mouth and jaw, making chewing easier.
- Barks: The barks of the plant are used, as they contain compounds that help in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the mouth, making it easier to chew and swallow.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for difficulty chewing.
- Gather 100g of freshly harvested zingiber officinale rhizomes and chop them into small pieces.
- Combine the chopped rhizomes with 750ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate container.
- Store the resulting tincture in a dark glass bottle and label it with the date and ingredients used.
9. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with difficulty chewing because it eases digestive discomfort and relaxes the muscles in the jaw.
The cooling sensation of peppermint oil can soothe the gut, reducing inflammation and spasms that may be contributing to pain or stiffness while eating. Additionally, peppermint's calming effects on the nervous system can help reduce anxiety and tension, making it easier to manage and enjoy meals.
As a result, herbal peppermint tinctures can provide relief from chewing difficulties and promote a more comfortable and enjoyable eating experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with difficulty chewing.
- Menthol: Menthol helps with difficulty chewing by acting as a local anesthetic that numbs the affected area, reducing pain and discomfort associated with chewing.
- Menthone: Menthone helps with difficulty chewing by reducing inflammation and pain in the jaw and mouth, making it easier to chew and swallow food.
- Carvone: Carvone helps with difficulty chewing by relaxing the muscles in the jaw and mouth, reducing tension and discomfort that can make chewing and swallowing difficult.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high menthol content, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.
- Buds: They are used for their concentrated menthol content, which can be effective in numbing the pain and inflammation in the mouth and throat, making it easier to chew and swallow.
- Stems: They are used because they contain menthol and other compounds that can help reduce pain and inflammation, allowing individuals with difficulty chewing to more comfortably eat and drink.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for difficulty chewing.
- Harvest 25 grams of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers at peak potency during sunny weather conditions.
- Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
- Mix the chopped plant material with 100 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for six weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the final tincture solution.
10. Sambucus nigra
Elder tinctures helps with difficulty chewing because it contains bioactive compounds that reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat.
The anti-inflammatory properties of elder tinctures soothe and calm irritated tissues, making it easier to chew and swallow food. Additionally, elder tinctures have been shown to strengthen gum tissue and increase saliva production, further aiding in proper digestion and reducing discomfort when eating.
By addressing these underlying issues, elder tinctures can help alleviate symptoms associated with difficulty chewing, such as pain and stiffness in the jaw and face.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with difficulty chewing.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain associated with difficulty chewing, making it easier to perform oral functions.
- Phenolic acids: As a derivative of salicylic acid, Sambucus nigra contains compounds that help reduce inflammation and pain in the mouth and gums, making it easier to chew and swallow food.
- Tannins: These astringent compounds help reduce inflammation and bleeding in the mouth and gums, promoting healing and reducing discomfort associated with difficulty chewing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for difficulty chewing.
- Flowers: The flowers are used due to their anthocyanins and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe mouth and throat issues.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with difficulty chewing.
- Barks: The barks are used due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce bleeding and inflammation in the mouth and gums.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for difficulty chewing.
- Harvest 500g of ripe sambucus nigra berries in late summer when they are dark purple and slightly soft.
- Clean the berries thoroughly by rinsing them in cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Combine the cleaned berries with 1000ml of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar in a 1:2 ratio.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature slowly.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the plant material.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for difficulty chewing?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with difficulty chewing is a blend of Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra), and Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra).
Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the gums, while Slippery Elm's demulcent properties coat and protect the mucous membranes, reducing irritation. Licorice Root's expectorant properties aid in relieving congestion and promoting saliva production, facilitating easier chewing and swallowing.
This synergistic blend can be taken sublingually or added to food and drinks for optimal benefits.
What ailments similar to difficulty chewing are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to difficulty chewing that are treated with herbal tinctures are sore throats, gum inflammation, and mouth ulcers.
Tinctures made from herbs like slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root help soothe and calm these issues. They can reduce swelling, ease discomfort, and promote healing of the mucous membranes in the mouth.
This natural approach can be especially beneficial for individuals who experience chronic or recurring oral health problems.