10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Jaw Lock

Herbal decoctions for jaw lock are a natural and effective way to alleviate tension, pain, and stiffness in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) area.

These herbal brews work by reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and improving blood circulation to the affected region. Examples of herbal decoctions that help with jaw lock include peppermint, chamomile, and ginger tea, which can be consumed hot or cold depending on personal preference.

By drinking these decoctions, individuals with jaw lock can experience relief from symptoms such as clicking, popping, and limited jaw movement, ultimately improving their quality of life and reducing stress and discomfort.

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

1. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian decoctions helps with jaw lock because it has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to relax tense muscles in the face and jaw.

The natural sedative properties of valerian root can also promote a sense of calmness and reduce stress and anxiety, common triggers for bruxism and jaw locking.

By soothing the nervous system and relaxing facial muscles, valerian decoctions can provide relief from jaw lock and promote overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis decoctions that help with jaw lock.

• Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid, a sesquiterpene, has been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative effects, which can help alleviate muscle tension in the jaw, contributing to jaw lock.
• Valeranone: Valeranone, a sesquiterpene, has been found to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the TMJ, thereby alleviating jaw lock symptoms.
• Isovaleric acid: Isovaleric acid, a fatty acid, has been reported to have a muscle relaxant effect, which can help relax the muscles in the jaw, making it easier to move the jaw without pain or stiffness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make decoctions for jaw lock.

• Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis are the most commonly used part in decoctions for jaw lock due to their high concentration of valerenic acids, which provide a sedative effect and relieve muscle tension.
• Stems: The stems of Valeriana officinalis contain a small amount of valerenic acids, but in combination with the roots, they can enhance the effectiveness of the decoction in relieving jaw lock pain.
• Leaves: The leaves of Valeriana officinalis contain some volatile oils and valerenic acids, which contribute to their use in decoctions for jaw lock by providing a mild analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for jaw lock.

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of dried roots or 2-3 pounds of fresh roots of valeriana officinalis in early fall.
2. Clean the roots thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris under cold running water for 10 minutes.
3. Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for better extraction.
4. Combine the chopped roots with 4 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
5. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half to create a strong decoction.

2. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop decoctions helps with jaw lock because they contain flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce tension in the muscles of the face and jaw.

The decoction's soothing and calming effects also help to relax the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), alleviating pressure and discomfort that may be contributing to jaw locking.

Additionally, the gentle warmth of the decoction can help to loosen and release any knots or tautness in the jaw muscles, promoting a sense of relief and comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata decoctions that help with jaw lock.

• Isovitexin: Isovitexin has flavonoid properties that help to relax muscles and reduce spasms, making it beneficial in alleviating jaw lock symptoms.
• Lignans: Lignans in Passiflora incarnata decoctions have a sedative effect, which can help to reduce anxiety and muscle tension that often contribute to jaw lock.
• Harmane: Harmane, an alkaloid constituent, has been found to possess antispasmodic properties, helping to relax the muscles involved in jaw lock, thereby providing relief.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make decoctions for jaw lock.

• Barks: The barks are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate jaw lock.
• Roots: The roots are used because they contain a high amount of passion flower extract, which has a sedative and anti-anxiety effect that can help relax jaw muscles.
• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their flavonoid and alkaloid content, which has a relaxing effect on muscles and can help reduce jaw tension.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for jaw lock.

1. Harvest 4 to 8 ounces of fresh or dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves for decoction.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 2 cups of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the plant material in the boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes to release active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a separate container.

3. Bacopa monnieri

Brahmi decoctions helps with jaw lock because it possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce muscle tension and spasms in the jaw.

The decoction's adaptogenic compounds also work to calm the nervous system, which is often linked to jaw clenching and locking.

By relaxing the jaw muscles and reducing inflammation, Brahmi decoctions can provide relief from discomfort and stiffness associated with TMJ disorders, promoting a healthier and more relaxed oral cavity.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri decoctions that help with jaw lock.

• Bacosides: Bacosides, a group of triterpenoid saponins, may help with jaw lock by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation in the jaw muscles, thus alleviating tension.
• Bacopasides: Bacopasides, another group of triterpenoid saponins, may contribute to reducing jaw lock symptoms by modulating the body's stress response and promoting a sense of calm.
• Monnierin: Monnierin, a phenolic glycoside, may help with jaw lock by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation in the jaw area.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make decoctions for jaw lock.

• Leaves: They are rich in bacosides, which are the primary active compounds responsible for the medicinal properties of Bacopa monnieri.
• Roots: They contain a higher concentration of bacosides compared to leaves and other parts, making them a preferred choice for decoctions.
• Stems: They are also a source of bacosides and are often used in combination with leaves and roots to enhance the effectiveness of the decoction.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic brahmi for jaw lock.

1. Gather 500g of dried bacopa monnieri roots and stems from a trusted supplier.
2. Weigh out 10-15g of dried material for a single serving and place it in a saucepan.
3. Add 1 liter of water to the saucepan and heat it over a low flame for 30 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the cooled decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

4. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender decoctions helps with jaw lock because its calming properties can ease tension in the muscles of the face, neck, and shoulders.

The soothing qualities of lavender can also reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for jaw locking. Additionally, the decoction's anti-inflammatory effects may help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ).

By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, English lavender decoctions can provide relief from jaw lock and promote overall oral health and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia decoctions that help with jaw lock.

• Linalool: This terpene helps relax muscles and reduce inflammation in the jaw joint, thereby alleviating jaw lock symptoms.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene has a calming effect, which can help reduce muscle tension and spasms in the jaw area, contributing to jaw lock relief.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, providing relief from jaw lock.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make decoctions for jaw lock.

• Leaves: Lavandula angustifolia leaves are used due to their calming properties, which can help ease jaw tension and discomfort associated with jaw lock.
• Flowers: Lavandula angustifolia flowers are used for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help reduce pain and relax the muscles in the jaw area.
• Stems: Lavandula angustifolia stems are used due to their ability to provide a gentle, soothing effect on the jaw muscles, helping to alleviate lockjaw symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for jaw lock.

1. Gather 1 tablespoon dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and place them in a clean glass container.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 1 cup boiling water in the container to create decoction.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another container to remove solids.
5. Store the cooled decoction in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Piper methysticum

Kava decoctions helps with jaw lock because it relaxes the muscles in the jaw, neck, and face, reducing tension and discomfort.

The antioxidants and flavonoids present in kava have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to ease spasms and stiffness that lead to jaw locking.

Additionally, kava's ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress can also contribute to its effectiveness in alleviating jaw lock symptoms, allowing for smoother, more comfortable movements of the jaw and facial muscles.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum decoctions that help with jaw lock.

• Tirucallol: Tirucallol is a triterpenoid saponin that contributes to the relaxation of jaw muscles by reducing muscle spasms and tension, which may help alleviate jaw lock symptoms.
• Piperlongumine: Piperlongumine is an alkaloid that has shown potential in reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, which may help alleviate jaw pain and discomfort associated with jaw lock.
• Piper nigrum lignans: Piper nigrum lignans are a type of phenolic compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the jaw muscles, contributing to a reduction in jaw lock symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make decoctions for jaw lock.

• Roots: The roots are considered the most medicinal part of Piper methysticum, containing the highest concentration of active compounds that help to relieve jaw lock and other muscle spasms.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes, or underground stems, of the plant are also used to make decoctions for jaw lock, as they contain compounds that help to relax muscles and reduce pain.
• Leaves: The leaves of Piper methysticum are sometimes used to make decoctions for jaw lock, as they contain smaller amounts of the active compounds found in the roots and rhyzomes, which still provide some relief from muscle spasms and pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for jaw lock.

1. Harvest 100g of dried piper methysticum root material from a reputable supplier or cultivate it yourself.
2. Crush 20-30g of the harvested root material into small pieces using a mortar and pestle.
3. Combine the crushed root pieces with 1 liter of boiling water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10-15 minutes or longer.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to collect the decoction.

6. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with jaw lock because it contains flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling in the jaw and alleviate tension.

The decoction's antioxidant compounds also help to relax the muscles surrounding the jaw, reducing spasms and stiffness. Additionally, the decoction's calming effects can soothe anxiety and stress-related jaw clenching.

By addressing the underlying causes of jaw lock, maidenhair tree decoctions provide natural relief from discomfort and pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with jaw lock.

• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could help reduce inflammation and relax muscle spasms in the jaw, alleviating jaw lock symptoms.
• Terpenoids: Bilobalide has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce muscle tension and spasms in the jaw, providing relief from jaw lock.
• Ginkgo flavone glycosides: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could help reduce inflammation and promote relaxation in the jaw muscles, alleviating jaw lock symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for jaw lock.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba, as they contain the highest concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have medicinal properties.
• Seeds: The seeds of Ginkgo biloba are used to treat various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases and memory impairments.
• Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba are used to treat various health issues, including respiratory problems and skin conditions.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for jaw lock.

1. Measure out 2 to 4 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves per 250ml of water for decoction.
2. Combine the measured ginkgo biloba leaves with the water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 30 to 60 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids.
5. Discard the solids and drink the decoction warm or at room temperature immediately.

7. Tilia platyphyllos

Broad-leaved lime decoctions helps with jaw lock because of its unique blend of flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and relax muscle tension.

The decoction's natural analgesic properties also help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with jaw locking.

Additionally, the herbal remedy can help improve oral function by reducing spasms in the jaw muscles, allowing for a more comfortable and normal range of motion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos decoctions that help with jaw lock.

• Terpenoids: Terpenoids, particularly flavonoids and triterpenoids, in Tilia platyphyllos decoctions help with jaw lock by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling and pain in the jaw area.
• Tannins: Tannins present in the decoctions act as an astringent, helping to reduce inflammation and relieve tension in the muscles of the jaw, thereby alleviating jaw lock symptoms.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, in Tilia platyphyllos decoctions possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to ease pain and inflammation associated with jaw lock.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make decoctions for jaw lock.

• Leaves: They are used to make decoctions for jaw lock because of their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Buds: They are used to make decoctions for jaw lock because of their pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Barks: They are used to make decoctions for jaw lock because of their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for jaw lock.

1. Harvest 10-20 fresh leaves and flowers of tilia platyphyllos in the early morning when dew is still present.
2. Rinse the harvested tilia platyphyllos leaves and flowers gently with cold running water to remove dirt.
3. Combine 1 cup of fresh tilia platyphyllos leaves and flowers with 2 cups of boiling water in a pot.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes over low heat allowing the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.

8. Humulus lupulus

Hops decoctions helps with jaw lock because of its unique ability to relax the muscles in the face, particularly the masseter and temporalis muscles responsible for jaw tension.

The anti-inflammatory properties of hops also help to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Additionally, the soothing effects of hops decoctions can calm anxiety and stress that often exacerbate jaw lock issues.

By promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension, herbal hops decoctions provide a natural solution for alleviating jaw lock symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus decoctions that help with jaw lock.

• Humulone: This sesquiterpene helps with jaw lock by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the jaw, thereby alleviating tension and pain.
• Lupulone: This sesquiterpene is believed to have a sedative effect, which can help in relaxing the jaw muscles, reducing spasms, and relieving jaw lock.
• Xanthohumol: This prenylated flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help in reducing pain and inflammation associated with jaw lock, as well as promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make decoctions for jaw lock.

• Flowers: They are used to make decoctions due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe the jaw and relieve pain.
• Stems: They are used to make decoctions because their bitter compounds have a numbing effect that can help alleviate jaw pain and discomfort.
• Leaves: They are used to make decoctions due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce swelling and prevent infection in the jaw area.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops for jaw lock.

1. Weigh out 5 grams of dried humulus lupulus flowers and place them in a heat-resistant container.
2. Combine 250 milliliters of water with the dried flowers in the container and stir well.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes or until it reaches a gentle boil.
4. Remove the container from heat and let it steep for 30 minutes to allow for maximum extraction.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to discard solids.

9. Cannabis sativa

Marijuana decoctions helps with jaw lock because they provide rapid relaxation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) muscles, which often become tense and inflamed due to clenching or grinding.

The herbal compounds in marijuana decoctions, such as myrcene and caryophyllene, work synergistically to reduce inflammation, ease muscle spasms, and promote a sense of calm, allowing for a more comfortable jaw and reduced lock.

Regular use can also help alleviate underlying stress and anxiety that may be contributing to the condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cannabis sativa decoctions that help with jaw lock.

• Myrcene: This terpene helps with jaw lock by reducing inflammation and relaxing muscle spasms in the jaw, thus alleviating tension and discomfort.
• Cannabidiol: This non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with jaw lock, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.
• Limonene: This terpene has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the jaw, thus alleviating jaw lock and promoting relaxation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marijuana used to make decoctions for jaw lock.

• Rhyzomes: They contain a compound called sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce jaw pain and inflammation.
• Leaves: They are a rich source of cannabidiol (CBD), which has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects that may help alleviate jaw lock pain.
• Buds: They contain high concentrations of THC and CBD, which may help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation, potentially providing relief from jaw lock.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marijuana for jaw lock.

1. Gather 1 ounce of dried cannabis sativa flowers and leaves and store in a cool dark place.
2. Measure out 1 cup of water for every 2 grams of cannabis sativa flowers.
3. Boil the water and then add the measured cannabis sativa flowers.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes to release the plant's active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

10. Hydrangea arborescens

Treetop hydrangea decoctions helps with jaw lock because of its natural ability to relax the muscles in the face, particularly the masseter muscle responsible for jaw clenching.

The soothing properties of treetop hydrangea calm inflammation and reduce tension, allowing for a gentle release of the jaw. This relaxation also extends to other areas of the body, promoting overall wellness and reducing stress-induced facial tightness.

Regular consumption of treetop hydrangea decoctions can lead to improved jaw mobility and a reduced incidence of lockjaw-like symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrangea arborescens decoctions that help with jaw lock.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with jaw lock by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, which can contribute to the relief of jaw pain and tension.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Hydrangea arborescens decoctions may help with jaw lock by exhibiting analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the jaw and surrounding areas.
• Coumarins: Coumarins present in Hydrangea arborescens decoctions have antispasmodic properties, which can help relax muscles and reduce spasms in the jaw, providing relief from jaw lock and related discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of treetop hydrangea used to make decoctions for jaw lock.

• Roots: Roots are commonly used in herbal medicine due to their concentrated bioactive compounds, which may provide therapeutic benefits.
• Leaves: Leaves are another part of the plant that might be used, as they often contain similar bioactive compounds found in the roots.
• Barks: Barks are sometimes used in herbal medicine, as they can contain bioactive compounds that may be beneficial for various health issues.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic treetop hydrangea for jaw lock.

1. Harvest hydrangea arborescens roots in the fall when the plant is dormant and store them in a dry location for later use.
2. Dry the roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 24 hours to preserve their medicinal properties.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces and measure out 20 grams for a decoction.
4. Combine the chopped roots with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat for 10 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the liquid in a glass bottle in the refrigerator.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for jaw lock?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with jaw lock is a blend of ginger, turmeric, and willow bark.

Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and ease pain, while turmeric's curcumin aids in healing and relaxation. Willow bark, rich in salicin, acts as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent. This trio of decoctions can be consumed as a warm drink or applied topically as a paste to help alleviate jaw lock and promote overall oral health.

Regular use may help prevent recurring episodes.

What ailments similar to jaw lock are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to jaw lock that are treated with herbal decoctions are various musculoskeletal and respiratory conditions.

For instance, herbal decoctions can help alleviate symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), arthritis, sciatica, fibromyalgia, bronchitis, asthma, and chronic coughs.

These decoctions often combine anti-inflammatory herbs like ginger, turmeric, and willow bark with warming spices such as cinnamon and cardamom to reduce pain and stiffness while promoting relaxation.