By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Jaw Lock
Herbal tinctures for jaw lock are concentrated plant extracts used to alleviate tension and discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding muscles.
By soothing inflammation and relaxing tight muscles, these herbal remedies help to release tension in the jaw, reducing symptoms of TMJ disorders such as jaw locking, clicking, or grinding. Examples of helpful herbs include willow bark, which reduces pain and inflammation, and passionflower, which calms nervous tension and promotes relaxation.
For individuals struggling with chronic jaw pain, herbal tinctures can significantly improve their quality of life by allowing for comfortable eating, speaking, and even sleeping.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for jaw lock, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Valeriana officinalis
- 2. Passiflora incarnata
- 3. Bacopa monnieri
- 4. Lavandula angustifolia
- 5. Piper methysticum
- 6. Ginkgo biloba
- 7. Tilia platyphyllos
- 8. Humulus lupulus
- 9. Cannabis sativa
- 10. Hydrangea arborescens
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for jaw lock?
- What ailments similar to jaw lock are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian tinctures helps with jaw lock because they promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension.
The herb's natural sedative properties can calm an overactive nervous system, which is often linked to bruxism or teeth grinding. By relaxing the muscles of the face and jaw, valerian tincture can help alleviate the pressure and discomfort associated with a locked jaw, allowing for smoother, more efficient chewing and swallowing.
Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce pain and swelling in the jaw and surrounding areas.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis tinctures that help with jaw lock.
- Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid has a sedative effect that can help relax jaw muscles, reducing tension and spasms that cause jaw lock.
- Valeranone: Valeranone is a GABA receptor agonist, which can help slow down nerve impulses and reduce muscle spasms in the jaw, alleviating jaw lock.
- Valerenol: Valerenol is a sesquiterpene with sedative and antispasmodic properties, which can help calm the nervous system and relax the jaw muscles, providing relief from jaw lock.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make tinctures for jaw lock.
- Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis are rich in valerenic acid and other compounds that have a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to relax muscles and alleviate jaw lock.
- Leaves: The leaves of Valeriana officinalis contain valerenic acid and other flavonoids that contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with jaw lock.
- Flowers: The flowers of Valeriana officinalis contain valerenic acid and other compounds that have a relaxing effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate muscle tension and jaw lock.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for jaw lock.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh or dried roots of valeriana officinalis on a dry sunny day.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and combine with 3 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking it every day for 1-2 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
- Label the tincture and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years or as directed by a healthcare professional.
2. Passiflora incarnata
Maypop tinctures helps with jaw lock because of its unique ability to relax the muscles in the jaw, face, and neck.
The herb contains a compound called passionflower, which has a sedative effect on the nervous system, calming down tension and reducing stress-induced clenching.
By soothing these areas, maypop tincture can alleviate symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, such as jaw pain, stiffness, and clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with jaw lock.
- Herniarin: Herniarin is a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with jaw lock.
- Hesperidin: Hesperidin is a flavanone glycoside with a sedative effect, which can help calm nervous system and reduce muscle tension, potentially alleviating jaw lock symptoms.
- Isovitexin: Isovitexin is a flavone glycoside with a sedative and anti-anxiety effect, which can help reduce stress and anxiety that may contribute to jaw lock and other muscle tension issues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make tinctures for jaw lock.
- Roots: They contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and alkaloids, which are responsible for the plant's therapeutic effects.
- Leaves: The leaves of Passiflora incarnata are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which contribute to their sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: The bark of the plant contains a combination of flavonoids and alkaloids that have been shown to have a calming effect and help with muscle relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for jaw lock.
- Harvest the fresh or dried flowers and leaves of passiflora incarnata when they are in full bloom and at peak potency.
- Clean and prepare the passiflora incarnata material by gently washing it with cold water to remove any debris.
- Combine the prepared passiflora incarnata material with a solvent like 80 proof vodka at a 1:2 ratio by weight.
- Steep the mixture in a clean glass jar for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container and store it in a cool dark place.
3. Bacopa monnieri
Brahmi tinctures helps with jaw lock because of its ability to calm and relax the nervous system, which is often linked to tension in the face and jaw.
The herb's adaptogenic properties help to reduce stress and anxiety, allowing for a more relaxed state that doesn't contribute to bruxism or teeth grinding.
Additionally, Brahmi's natural anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe and calm the jaw muscles, providing relief from pain and discomfort associated with jaw lock.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri tinctures that help with jaw lock.
- Bacosides: Bacosides are a group of saponins found in Bacopa monnieri, which may help alleviate jaw lock by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, thus promoting relaxation in the jaw muscles.
- Bacopaside ii: Bacopaside II is a triterpenoid saponin with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may contribute to its ability to soothe jaw lock by reducing muscle tension and promoting pain relief.
- Monnierin: Monnierin is a phenylethanoid glycoside with potential neuroprotective and anxiolytic properties, which may help alleviate jaw lock by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, thus reducing muscle tension in the jaw.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make tinctures for jaw lock.
- Leaves: They contain the highest concentration of bacosides, which are the key compounds responsible for the herb's medicinal properties.
- Roots: They are also rich in bacosides, making them a popular choice for tincture production.
- Stems: They may contain some bacosides, although in lower concentrations compared to leaves and roots.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic brahmi for jaw lock.
- Harvest fresh bacopa monnieri leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them completely for later use.
- Combine 100 grams of dried bacopa monnieri with 500 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for six to eight weeks to allow the extraction process.
- Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container to remove solids.
- Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in the refrigerator to slow down the degradation process.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender tinctures helps with jaw lock because of its calming and relaxing properties, which can soothe muscle tension in the face and neck.
The tincture's sedative effects can help to reduce stress and anxiety, common triggers for jaw locking. Additionally, lavender's analgesic and anti-inflammatory compounds may also contribute to its pain-relieving properties, providing welcome relief from the discomfort associated with locked jaws.
By promoting relaxation and reducing tension, English lavender tinctures offer a natural solution for alleviating jaw lock and related symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with jaw lock.
- Linalool: Linalool is a terpene that helps with jaw lock by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation in the jaw muscles, which can contribute to tension headaches and jaw pain.
- Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate is a terpene that has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate anxiety and stress that may contribute to jaw lock and tension in the jaw muscles.
- Lavandulol: Lavandulol is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the jaw and surrounding areas, providing relief from jaw lock.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for jaw lock.
- Leaves: Used for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties to help relax the jaw muscles.
- Flowers: Utilized for their soothing and antispasmodic effects to ease jaw tension and pain.
- Roots: Employed for their grounding and antispasmodic properties to stabilize the nervous system and reduce jaw lock.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for jaw lock.
- Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak bloom for maximum potency within 4-6 weeks.
- Dry the harvested flowers using a food dehydrator at 95°f for 4-6 hours to preserve the plant material.
- Measure out 1 part of dried flowers to 2 parts of 80% ethanol by volume to create the tincture base.
- Combine the measured dried flowers with the ethanol base in a glass jar and seal it for a 2-3 week maceration period.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle for storage.
5. Piper methysticum
Kava tinctures helps with jaw lock because they contain a unique compound called kavalactones, which have a calming effect on the nervous system.
When consumed, these compounds help to relax the muscles of the face and jaw, reducing tension and stiffness associated with bruxism (teeth grinding) and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
As a result, herbal kava tinctures can provide relief from jaw lock, allowing individuals to speak, eat, and sleep more comfortably without the discomfort and pain caused by tense facial muscles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum tinctures that help with jaw lock.
- Kavalactones: Kavalactones, particularly kawain and methysticin, have anxiolytic and analgesic properties that can help alleviate tension and pain associated with jaw lock, reducing muscle spasms and inflammation in the TMJ.
- Flavokawain b: This kavalactone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and pain in the TMJ, contributing to the relief of jaw lock symptoms.
- Methysticin: Myrsticin has a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce muscle tension and pain associated with jaw lock, promoting relaxation and reducing the severity of TMJ symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make tinctures for jaw lock.
- Roots: The roots of Piper methysticum contain the highest concentration of kavalactones, which are believed to provide the plant's medicinal properties and are often used in tinctures to alleviate jaw lock.
- Leaves: The leaves of Piper methysticum contain lower amounts of kavalactones compared to the roots and rhizomes, but they are still used in tinctures for their potential ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate jaw lock symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for jaw lock.
- Harvest and dry 3-4 ounces of fresh piper methysticum leaves and roots for 2-3 weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Chop the dried piper methysticum material into fine pieces using a sharp tool for efficient tincture production.
- Combine the chopped piper methysticum material with 80 proof vodka or glycerin in a 1:5 ratio in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily to enhance extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids.
6. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with jaw lock because it contains compounds that have a profound impact on the muscles of the face, particularly those involved in jaw movement.
The tannins and flavonoids present in the tincture work to relax and soothe tense muscle fibers, reducing spasms and tension that can lead to jaw lock. As the muscles release their grip, the jaw is able to move freely once again, alleviating discomfort and pain.
This natural remedy offers a safe and effective way to address jaw lock and promote overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with jaw lock.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, in Ginkgo biloba tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with TMJ disorders.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids, such as bilobalide and ginkgolides, in Ginkgo biloba tinctures have antioxidant properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the TMJ, contributing to pain relief.
- Ginkgolide b: Ginkgolide B is a terpenoid in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the TMJ, alleviating pain and discomfort associated with jaw lock.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for jaw lock.
- Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, potentially alleviating jaw lock symptoms.
- Buds: The buds of Ginkgo biloba contain flavonoids and terpenoids similar to its leaves, which may help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, potentially alleviating jaw lock symptoms.
- Seeds: The seeds of Ginkgo biloba contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, potentially alleviating jaw lock symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for jaw lock.
- Gather 1 part ginkgo biloba leaves and 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar for maceration.
- Combine the ginkgo biloba leaves with 80 proof vodka in a 1:2 ratio in the jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow infusion.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Transfer the ginkgo biloba tincture to glass dropper bottles and store them in a cool dark place.
7. Tilia platyphyllos
Broad-leaved lime tinctures helps with jaw lock because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb contains compounds that can reduce muscle tension and relax the jaw, thereby alleviating symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
Additionally, the tincture's ability to soothe irritated tissues and reduce inflammation in the face and neck area can help to release physical and emotional tension, allowing for a more comfortable and relaxed jaw and overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos tinctures that help with jaw lock.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help to reduce inflammation and relax smooth muscle, which can contribute to the relief of jaw lock symptoms.
- Terpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and relaxant properties, which can help to alleviate tension in the jaw and surrounding muscles.
- Rosmarinic acid: This antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound has been shown to have analgesic and anti-spasmodic effects, which can help to reduce pain and tension in the jaw and surrounding areas.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make tinctures for jaw lock.
- Leaves: They are often used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help soothe and calm jaw and facial pain.
- Buds: They are used because of their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing, which can be beneficial in treating jaw lock and related issues.
- Barks: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with jaw lock.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for jaw lock.
- Harvest tilia platyphyllos flowers in early summer when in full bloom for a high essential oil content.
- Dry tilia platyphyllos flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 2-3 weeks.
- Combine 1 part dried tilia platyphyllos flowers with 2 parts 95% grain alcohol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle for storage.
8. Humulus lupulus
Hops tinctures helps with jaw lock because of its natural ability to relax the muscles in the face, particularly those responsible for tension and stiffness in the jaw.
The antispasmodic properties of hops help to calm and soothe the jaw joint, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Additionally, the calming effects of hops can also promote relaxation and reduce stress, which are common triggers for jaw locking.
By using an herbal hops tincture, individuals may experience relief from chronic jaw tension and improved overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus tinctures that help with jaw lock.
- Xanthohumol: This prenylated chalcone flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant properties, which can help alleviate jaw lock by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the jaw.
- 8-prenylnaringenin: This prenylated flavonoid has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve pain and reduce swelling in the jaw, making it easier to manage jaw lock.
- Lupulone: This hopane triterpenoid has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the jaw, providing relief from jaw lock.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make tinctures for jaw lock.
- Flowers: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax muscles and reduce pain.
- Buds: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and relax muscles, making them effective for jaw lock relief.
- Leaves: They possess antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to ease muscle tension and alleviate jaw lock symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops for jaw lock.
- Gather 100g of dried humulus lupulus flowers and store them in an airtight container.
- Combine the humulus lupulus with 500ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store 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 another clean glass container.
- Label and store the final tincture in a cool dark place, ready for use.
9. Cannabis sativa
Marijuana tinctures helps with jaw lock because they contain cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive compound that targets the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for facial and jaw muscle contractions.
The tincture's bioavailable CBD absorbs quickly into the bloodstream, calming muscle spasms and tension in the jaw, neck, and face.
This natural relief from TMJ disorder and teeth grinding can bring instant comfort to those suffering from jaw lock, allowing them to chew, eat, and sleep with ease once again.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cannabis sativa tinctures that help with jaw lock.
- Myrcene: A terpene that may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with jaw lock, making it easier to move the jaw and alleviate tension.
- Cannabidiol: A non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid that may help reduce anxiety and stress, which can contribute to jaw lock and TMD, and may also have anti-inflammatory properties to alleviate pain.
- Beta-caryophyllene: A sesquiterpene that may help reduce inflammation and pain in the jaw joint, as well as exhibit antispasmodic properties to ease muscle tension and spasms associated with jaw lock.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marijuana used to make tinctures for jaw lock.
- Leaves: High in CBD, leaves are often used to create tinctures due to their potential pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Buds: Rich in THC, buds are commonly used to create tinctures for their potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate jaw lock symptoms.
- Seeds: Containing CBD, seeds are often used to make tinctures for their potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help reduce jaw lock pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marijuana for jaw lock.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of fresh cannabis sativa flowers at peak potency and store them in an airtight container immediately.
- Combine the harvested flowers with 80 proof vodka in a glass jar with a 1:5 ratio by weight.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks shaking the jar every few days gently.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a new glass bottle and discard the solids completely.
- Allow the tincture to mature for 2-4 weeks after straining before using it sublingually as desired.
10. Hydrangea arborescens
Treetop hydrangea tinctures helps with jaw lock because its unique composition of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and phenolic acids, has a profound impact on the musculature of the face.
The tincture's soothing properties can effectively calm the jaw muscles, reducing tension and spasms that often lead to jaw locking.
Additionally, hydrangea's anti-inflammatory effects may help alleviate any underlying inflammation or irritation in the joint, promoting relaxation and relief from discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrangea arborescens tinctures that help with jaw lock.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Hydrangea arborescens tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce swelling and pain associated with jaw lock or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Saponins: Saponins in Hydrangea arborescens tinctures may help reduce inflammation and relax muscles, which can contribute to jaw lock by alleviating tension and discomfort in the TMJ and surrounding areas.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides in Hydrangea arborescens tinctures may have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the body's response to inflammation and promote healing in the TMJ and surrounding tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of treetop hydrangea used to make tinctures for jaw lock.
- Leaves: Used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Roots: Used in traditional medicine for their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Barks: Used in traditional medicine for their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic treetop hydrangea for jaw lock.
- Harvest hydrangea arborescens roots in late fall or early spring when they are most potent and contain high concentrations of bioactive compounds.
- Clean and dry the harvested roots thoroughly to prevent contamination and promote even extraction.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for efficient solvent penetration.
- Steep 1 part of the chopped root material in 2 parts of 80 proof vodka or high proof neutral spirit for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container to remove all plant residue.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for jaw lock?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with jaw lock is a blend of Passionflower, Valerian Root, and Kava.
Passionflower helps to calm and relax the nervous system, reducing tension and anxiety that can contribute to jaw lock. Valerian Root promotes deep relaxation and eases muscle tension, while Kava reduces inflammation and pain.
This combination can be taken sublingually or added to water to help alleviate jaw lock symptoms and promote overall relaxation and well-being.
What ailments similar to jaw lock are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to jaw lock that are treated with herbal tinctures are various conditions characterized by muscle spasms, tension, and pain.
These include headaches such as migraines and tension headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, and fibromyalgia. Herbal tinctures containing ingredients like skullcap, passionflower, and lavender can help relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and alleviate discomfort associated with these conditions.
Additionally, tinctures made from valerian root, chamomile, and ginger may also provide relief from insomnia, anxiety, and digestive issues that can contribute to jaw lock.