10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Jaw Pain

Herbal decoctions for jaw pain are a natural and effective remedy for relieving discomfort, inflammation, and stiffness associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

By steeping herbs such as chamomile, lavender, and peppermint in hot water, the resulting decoction can be sipped or used as a mouthwash to soothe the jaw muscles and reduce pain. For example, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties help calm inflamed joints, while peppermint's analgesic properties numb the area, providing instant relief.

This natural approach improves daily lives by reducing frequent migraines, difficulty chewing, and earaches often linked to TMJ disorders.

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

1. Salvia officinalis

Sage decoctions helps with jaw pain because it contains salvanic acid, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

When consumed as a tea or infusion, sage's compounds can penetrate the bloodstream and reach the face and jaw muscles, reducing inflammation and easing tension.

This natural relief can provide significant comfort to individuals suffering from conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, bruxism, or arthritis-related jaw pain, allowing them to manage discomfort and restore a sense of well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic acid with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate jaw pain.
• Carvacrol: A monoterpenic phenol that has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help relieve jaw pain and discomfort.
• Salvianolic acid a: A phenolic acid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with jaw pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make decoctions for jaw pain.

• Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help reduce jaw pain and inflammation.
• Roots: The roots contain salvinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it effective in soothing jaw pain.
• Buds: The buds have antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent infections that can cause jaw pain and swelling.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for jaw pain.

1. Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried salvia officinalis leaves and flowers for decoction.
2. Combine the salvia officinalis with 1 quart of boiling water and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
4. Discard the solids and store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
5. Take 1/4 cup of the decoction 2-3 times a day as needed to promote relaxation.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with jaw pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

The decoction's soothing and calming effects also ease tension in the jaw muscles, making it a natural remedy for alleviating headaches, facial pain, and clicking or locking sensations.

Additionally, licorice root's analgesic properties help numb the pain, providing quick relief from discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with jaw pain by reducing inflammation and swelling in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), a common cause of jaw pain.
• Licopyrones: These phenolic glycosides have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to alleviate jaw pain and discomfort by reducing inflammation and relaxing the jaw muscles.
• Flavonoids: As an anti-inflammatory compound, quercetin in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions helps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the jaw and surrounding tissues, providing relief from jaw pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for jaw pain.

• Roots: Rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Barks: Contain bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the jaw.
• Leaves: Have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm jaw pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for jaw pain.

1. Harvest 2-3 ounces of fresh or dried root of glycyrrhiza glabra for decoction preparation.
2. Chop the root into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
3. Boil one quart of water in a saucepan over high heat for 10 minutes.
4. Add the chopped root to the boiling water and reduce heat to low.
5. Simmer the mixture for 30-40 minutes to release active compounds from the root.

3. Boswellia serrata

Frankincense decoctions helps with jaw pain because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and ease tension in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

The decoction's soothing effects also calm the facial muscles, allowing for a more relaxed opening and closing of the jaw.

Additionally, frankincense's analgesic properties help to dull any pain or discomfort associated with TMJ disorders, providing relief from headaches, earaches, and facial tenderness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata decoctions that help with jaw pain.

• Acylated terpenoids: These compounds, particularly boswellic acids, help with jaw pain by inhibiting inflammatory enzymes and reducing inflammation in the affected area.
• Α-boswellic acid: This specific boswellic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate jaw pain by blocking the production of inflammatory mediators and reducing swelling.
• Β-boswellic acid: Similar to α-boswellic acid, β-boswellic acid exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that help with jaw pain by inhibiting the production of inflammatory enzymes and reducing oxidative stress.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make decoctions for jaw pain.

• Roots: The roots are used due to their high concentration of boswellic acids, which are responsible for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes are used for their similar composition to roots, also containing boswellic acids that help in reducing inflammation and pain associated with jaw disorders.
• Barks: The barks are used due to their presence of boswellic acids and other compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and providing relief from jaw pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for jaw pain.

1. Harvest 30g of dried boswellia serrata resin from mature trees with clean scissors or pruning shears carefully.
2. Weigh out 3g of the harvested resin and add it to a heat-resistant glass bowl slowly.
3. Combine 1l of distilled water with the resin in the bowl and bring to a boil rapidly.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10-15 minutes gently.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids completely.

4. Syzygium aromaticum

Cloves decoctions helps with jaw pain because of its unique composition.

The eugenol present in cloves has potent anti-inflammatory properties that effectively reduce swelling and ease tension in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Additionally, the warm sensation from the decoction can help relax the muscles surrounding the jaw, providing temporary relief from pain and discomfort.

This natural remedy is especially beneficial for people suffering from TMJ disorders, bruxism, or facial strain, offering a gentle yet effective way to alleviate jaw pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Syzygium aromaticum decoctions that help with jaw pain.

• Eugenol: Eugenol helps with jaw pain by reducing inflammation and acting as a local anesthetic, numbing the pain in the jaw and surrounding areas.
• Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide, a sesquiterpene, helps with jaw pain by reducing inflammation and modulating pain pathways in the body, providing relief from pain and discomfort.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid, help with jaw pain by reducing inflammation, acting as antioxidants, and inhibiting the production of pain-related neurotransmitters, ultimately providing relief from jaw pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of cloves used to make decoctions for jaw pain.

• Buds: The buds are used due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly eugenol, which is known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: The stems are used because they contain a significant amount of eugenol, a natural pain reliever that helps alleviate jaw pain and inflammation.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their mild analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe jaw pain and reduce swelling.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cloves for jaw pain.

1. Harvest 10 grams of syzygium aromaticum leaves and flowers and dry them in the shade for 2 weeks.
2. Grind the dried syzygium aromaticum into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Mix 1 teaspoon of the ground syzygium aromaticum powder with 250 milliliters of boiling water.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes and then strain it using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
5. Discard the solids and store the decoction in a glass bottle in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint decoctions helps with jaw pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

When consumed as a warm beverage, the menthol in peppermint relaxes tense facial muscles, reducing tension and stiffness in the jaw.

Additionally, the decoction's cooling sensation can help ease inflammation and swelling in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), providing relief from pain and discomfort associated with conditions such as temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Menthol helps with jaw pain by numbing the sensory nerves in the jaw, thereby reducing inflammation and pain perception.
• Menthone: Menthone has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling in the jaw, which can contribute to pain relief.
• Limonene: Limonene, a terpene found in mint, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help to reduce jaw pain and inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for jaw pain.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots contain menthol and other compounds that help to reduce pain and inflammation in the jaw.
• Stems: The stems of the plant, like the leaves and roots, are a source of menthol and other bioactive compounds that contribute to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the decoctions.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for jaw pain.

1. Harvest 1-2 bunches of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and stems from a well-maintained garden.
2. Wash the harvested leaves and stems thoroughly with cold running water for 2 minutes.
3. Chop the leaves and stems into smaller pieces and combine them with 4 cups of water in a saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and discard solids.

6. Aloe vera

Aloe decoctions helps with jaw pain because it has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that alleviate tension and discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

The gel-like substance extracted from the aloe plant contains compounds like acemannan, which reduces inflammation and relaxes muscles.

When consumed as a decoction, these compounds help to soothe jaw pain and stiffness caused by conditions such as temporomandibular disorder (TMD) or teeth grinding, allowing for improved mouth function and reduced discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Anthraquinones: These glycosides have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the jaw by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Saponins: These compounds have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate jaw pain by blocking pain signals and reducing inflammation in the affected area.
• Glucomannans: These polysaccharides have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce jaw pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and free radicals that contribute to inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for jaw pain.

• Leaves: They are rich in gel, a soothing and anti-inflammatory substance that can help alleviate jaw pain.
• Leaves: Aloe vera leaves also contain a compound called aloin, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce jaw pain.
• Leaves: The gel from Aloe vera leaves can also help reduce swelling and inflammation in the jaw area, providing relief from pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for jaw pain.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the aloe vera plant to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
2. Harvest a mature aloe vera leaf with a length of about 15-20 centimeters and thickness of 3-5 millimeters.
3. Cut off the outer green skin of the aloe vera leaf to expose the clear gel inside using a sharp knife.
4. Scoop out the clear gel from the aloe vera leaf using a spoon and transfer it to a blender.
5. Blend the aloe vera gel with 2 cups of water for 30 seconds and then strain it using a cheesecloth.

7. Curcuma longa

Turmeric decoctions helps with jaw pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease tension in the jaw muscles.

The curcumin present in turmeric also inhibits the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that contribute to inflammation and pain. Additionally, turmeric's natural analgesic properties help to numb the pain and provide relief from discomfort associated with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ).

By incorporating turmeric decoctions into your daily routine, you can experience significant reduction in jaw pain and improved overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: It helps with jaw pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are common underlying causes of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and other jaw-related disorders.
• Demethoxycurcumin: It helps with jaw pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to inflammation and pain in the jaw and surrounding tissues.
• Bisdemethoxycurcumin: It helps with jaw pain by exhibiting potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the jaw and surrounding tissues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for jaw pain.

• Rhyzomes: Turmeric Rhyzomes are widely used due to their high concentration of curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Leaves: Turmeric Leaves are utilized for their bioactive compounds, which have been shown to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate jaw pain.
• Roots: Turmeric Roots are commonly used due to their rich content of curcuminoids, which have been traditionally used to treat various types of pain, including jaw pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for jaw pain.

1. Grind 1 to 2 teaspoons of fresh or dried curcuma longa rhizomes into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
2. Heat 1 cup of water in a saucepan over medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Add the ground curcuma longa powder to the heated water and stir well to prevent lumps.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes to release the active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

8. Capsicum annuum

Bell pepper decoctions helps with jaw pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and discomfort in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

The decoction's soothing effects also ease tension in the muscles surrounding the jaw, relaxing the area and promoting a sense of calm.

Additionally, the natural antioxidants present in bell peppers help to eliminate toxins that may be contributing to pain and stiffness in the jaw, leading to a significant reduction in discomfort and improvement in overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum decoctions that help with jaw pain.

• Capsaicin: Capsaicin helps with jaw pain by acting as a potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing pain and inflammation associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
• Polyphenols: Polyphenols help with jaw pain by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the TMJ and surrounding tissues.
• Terpenes: Terpenes help with jaw pain by possessing analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the TMJ and surrounding muscles and tissues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make decoctions for jaw pain.

• Leaves: The leaves of Capsicum annuum contain capsaicin, a compound that helps reduce pain by blocking the production of a chemical called substance P.
• Fruits: The fruits (or peppers) of Capsicum annuum contain capsaicin, which helps alleviate jaw pain by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals.
• Seeds: The seeds of Capsicum annuum also contain capsaicin, which aids in pain relief by inhibiting the production of substance P and reducing inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for jaw pain.

1. Gather 20-30 grams of dried capsicum annuum pods and 2 cups of water for decoction.
2. Chop the dried capsicum annuum pods into smaller pieces to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped capsicum annuum pods with water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 30-40 minutes to release active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

9. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with jaw pain because its anti-inflammatory compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, effectively reduce inflammation in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

The warm, comforting liquid soothes stiff muscles and eases tension in the jaw, promoting relaxation and reducing discomfort.

Additionally, ginger's natural analgesic properties help numb pain and ease pressure on the TMJ, providing rapid relief from symptoms such as stiffness, soreness, and clicking sounds associated with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These compounds, particularly 6-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and swelling associated with jaw pain, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
• Shogaols: Shogaols have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the jaw and surrounding areas, making them effective in managing jaw pain.
• Zingiberone: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which contribute to its ability to reduce pain and inflammation in the jaw, making it a valuable constituent in Zingiber officinale decoctions for managing jaw pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for jaw pain.

• Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and pain in the jaw.
• Rhyzomes: Employed for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects to ease jaw pain and discomfort.
• Buds: Utilized for their warming and analgesic properties to relieve tension and pain in the jaw area.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for jaw pain.

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried root of zingiber officinale and place it in a clean glass container.
2. Boil 1 liter of water in a saucepan and pour it over the root in the container.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid reaches a temperature of 95-99 degrees fahrenheit.
4. Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a separate container to remove the root residue.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or consume immediately.

10. Artemisia absinthium

Wormwood decoctions helps with jaw pain because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that target the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for transmitting facial pain.

The herb's bitter compounds also help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the joints and muscles of the jaw, providing relief from tension headaches and migraines.

Additionally, wormwood's analgesic properties can help to numb the pain, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating jaw pain and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium decoctions that help with jaw pain.

• Thujone: Thujone is a terpene found in Artemisia absinthium that may help reduce inflammation and relax muscles, potentially alleviating jaw pain and tension.
• Absinthin: Absinthin is a phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which may help reduce swelling and prevent infection in the jaw area, contributing to pain relief.
• Artemisinin: Artemisinin is a sesquiterpene lactone with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the jaw joint and surrounding tissues, leading to pain relief.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make decoctions for jaw pain.

• Leaves: Artemisia absinthium leaves are commonly used to make decoctions for jaw pain due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: The stems of Artemisia absinthium contain essential oils that help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with jaw pain.
• Roots: Artemisia absinthium roots are often used to make decoctions for jaw pain due to their ability to reduce swelling and ease pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for jaw pain.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh or dried artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers in the morning.
2. Dry the harvested material in a single layer at 105-115 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1/4 cup of dried leaves and flowers with 2 cups of cold water in a saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

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

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with jaw pain is a blend of ginger, turmeric, and chamomile.

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and ease discomfort, while turmeric's curcumin content has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Chamomile, with its soothing and calming properties, helps to relax the jaw muscles and reduce tension. Combine equal parts of each decoction and drink 2-3 times a day to experience relief from jaw pain and inflammation.

Consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.

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

Ailments similar to jaw pain that are treated with herbal decoctions are various oral and facial health issues.

For instance, herbal decoctions can alleviate symptoms of toothache, gum inflammation, and mouth ulcers caused by bacterial infections or dental abscesses.

They may also help soothe tension headaches, migraines, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders that radiate pain to the jaw and face.