By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Dry Mouth
Herbal capsules for dry mouth are natural supplements designed to alleviate the symptoms of xerostomia, or dry mouth.
They work by stimulating saliva production and soothing oral tissues, reducing discomfort, and preventing dental problems. Examples of herbal capsules that help with dry mouth include those containing sage, peppermint, and licorice root, which have been shown to effectively reduce symptoms.
For individuals suffering from dry mouth, these capsules can improve their ability to speak, eat, and sleep comfortably, leading to a significant improvement in their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for dry mouth, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Salvia officinalis
- 2. Melissa officinalis
- 3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 4. Myrrhis odorata
- 5. Sambucus nigra
- 6. Althaea officinalis
- 7. Calendula officinalis
- 8. Lavandula angustifolia
- 9. Mentha x piperita
- 10. Thymus vulgaris
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for dry mouth?
- What ailments similar to dry mouth are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Salvia officinalis
Sage capsules helps with dry mouth because they contain salivary enzymes that stimulate saliva production, replenishing the natural balance of moisture in the mouth.
The herb's active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and carnacic acid, have been shown to increase the production of saliva, which can help alleviate symptoms of dry mouth, including discomfort, sticky or tacky feelings, and difficulty chewing or swallowing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis capsules that help with dry mouth.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
- Salvianolic acid: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce inflammation and protect the oral mucosa, thus alleviating dry mouth and promoting a healthy oral environment.
- Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent infections in the mouth, thereby alleviating dry mouth symptoms and promoting oral health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make capsules for dry mouth.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help to soothe and moisturize the mouth.
- Leaves: Contain antimicrobial properties that help to reduce bacteria and inflammation in the mouth, relieving dry mouth symptoms.
- Leaves: Have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the mouth, providing relief for dry mouth sufferers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for dry mouth.
- Harvest 25-30 grams of dried salvia officinalis leaves from a trusted source.
- Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar.
- Mix 1:1 ratio of salvia officinalis powder to a carrier agent like cellulose or starch.
- Fill empty gelatin or vegetarian capsules with approximately 0.5 grams of the mixture.
- Store the filled capsules in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat.
2. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm capsules helps with dry mouth because they contain rosmarinic acid, a compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation in the salivary glands.
This anti-inflammatory property helps to increase saliva production, which can alleviate symptoms of dry mouth such as sticky or dry feeling in the mouth and difficulty chewing and swallowing.
Additionally, lemon balm's calming effects on the nervous system may also help to relax the muscles involved in speaking and eating, further reducing discomfort associated with dry mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis capsules that help with dry mouth.
- Linalool: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and moisturize the oral tissues to reduce dry mouth symptoms.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the oral mucosa from damage and promote saliva production to alleviate dry mouth.
- Volatile oils: A mixture of terpenes and esters that exhibit anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties, which can help reduce stress and anxiety-related dry mouth symptoms by promoting relaxation and saliva production.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make capsules for dry mouth.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and possess anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and moisturize the oral cavity.
- Flowers: They contain compounds like linalool and rosmarinic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, reducing dry mouth symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis are also rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which contribute to their soothing and protective effects on the oral mucosa.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for dry mouth.
- Dry 50 grams of melissa officinalis leaves in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix 250 milliliters of distilled water with 50 grams of the powder in a saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes and then let it cool.
- Fill 100-count gelatin capsules with 250 milligrams of the cooled mixture and seal them.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice capsules helps with dry mouth because they contain the herb Glycyrrhiza glabra, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth.
This can help to reduce inflammation and irritation caused by a dry mouth, allowing for a healthier and more comfortable oral environment.
Additionally, licorice root has been shown to have antibacterial properties, which can help to combat gum disease and bad breath associated with dry mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules that help with dry mouth.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin acts as a natural demulcent, coating the mucous membranes and protecting them from irritants, thereby relieving dry mouth symptoms.
- Licodione and its derivatives: As flavonoids, they have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with dry mouth.
- Asperuloside: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the mucous membranes, promoting the healing of dry, irritated tissues and alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make capsules for dry mouth.
- Roots: They contain a high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps to soothe and moisturize the oral cavity.
- Leaves: They possess anti-inflammatory properties and contain antioxidants that aid in soothing dry mouth and promoting oral health.
- Barks: They have been used to treat various oral health issues, including dry mouth, due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for dry mouth.
- Harvest 100g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and sift to remove debris.
- Grind 50g of the sifted roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
- Mix the ground powder with 100g of vegetable cellulose powder and 50g of gelatin in a bowl.
- Use a capsule machine to fill the mixture into 100 empty capsules.
- Store the filled capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place for 2 months before consuming.
4. Myrrhis odorata
Sweet cicely capsules helps with dry mouth because they contain Myrrhis odorata, a plant-based extract that has been traditionally used to soothe oral mucous membranes.
The antioxidants and flavonoids present in sweet cicely help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the mouth, alleviating symptoms of dry mouth such as burning sensations, sticky saliva, and difficulty eating or speaking.
By promoting healthy oral tissues, sweet cicely capsules can bring relief to individuals suffering from this common condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Myrrhis odorata capsules that help with dry mouth.
- Terpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the mouth, which can contribute to dry mouth symptoms.
- Flavonoids: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, quercetin may help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing dryness and discomfort.
- Phenolic acids: This phenolic acid has been shown to have a protective effect on the mucous membranes and may help stimulate saliva production, which can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sweet cicely used to make capsules for dry mouth.
- Roots: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and moisturize the mouth.
- Leaves: They are used due to their ability to provide relief from dry mouth symptoms through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- (no other part is commonly used, but) buds: They are sometimes used, but their use is less documented; however, they might have similar benefits as the roots and leaves.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sweet cicely for dry mouth.
- Harvest 500 grams of dried aerial parts of myrrhis odorata in the early morning after the dew has dried.
- Dry the harvested material in a low-temperature oven at 40 degrees celsius for 2 hours to remove excess moisture.
- Mix the dried material with 500 grams of gelatin in a food processor until well combined.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the mixture using a capsule filling machine and a dosage of 500 mg per capsule.
- Store the capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
5. Sambucus nigra
Elder capsules helps with dry mouth because they contain natural compounds that stimulate saliva production.
The bioactive compounds in elderberry, such as anthocyanins and flavonoids, have been shown to increase salivation and improve oral hydration. By promoting a healthy balance of saliva levels, elder capsules can help alleviate symptoms of xerostomia (dry mouth), reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues associated with dry mouth.
Additionally, elderberry's anti-inflammatory properties may also soothe and calm irritated oral tissues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra capsules that help with dry mouth.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with dry mouth by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the mouth, which can increase saliva production and soothe dry, irritated tissues.
- Sambunigrin: As a glycoside, sambunigrin may help stimulate salivary gland secretion and promote the production of saliva, which can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
- Ellagic acid: This polyphenolic compound has antioxidant properties that may help protect the oral mucosa from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to dry mouth, while also promoting a healthy oral environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make capsules for dry mouth.
- Flowers: The flowers of Sambucus nigra are used because they are rich in antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth.
- Leaves: The leaves of Sambucus nigra are used because they contain tannins and other compounds that can help reduce inflammation and soothe dry mouth.
- Buds: The buds of Sambucus nigra are used because they contain similar compounds to the leaves and flowers, which can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for dry mouth.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried sambucus nigra flowers and leaves on a dry day.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material for 2 days to remove any moisture.
- Grind the dried plant material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 2 minutes.
- Mix 1 part of the powdered plant material with 2 parts of gelatin or vegetable capsules in a bowl.
- Fill gelatin or vegetable capsules with the mixture and seal them using a capsule filling machine.
6. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow capsules helps with dry mouth because they contain mucilages, which are natural soothing agents that help to lubricate and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth.
When taken as a supplement, these mucilages can help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the mouth, providing relief from dryness and discomfort.
Additionally, marshmallow capsules may also help to stimulate saliva production, further aiding in the restoration of natural moisture levels in the mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis capsules that help with dry mouth.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, providing relief from dry mouth symptoms.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the mouth and promote the production of saliva to combat dry mouth.
- Gallic acid: Gallic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the mucous membranes in the mouth from damage and promote the production of saliva to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make capsules for dry mouth.
- Roots: They are the primary source of mucilages, which provide soothing and protective properties for dry mouth.
- Leaves: They contain mucilages and other compounds that contribute to their soothing and moisturizing effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for dry mouth.
- Harvest fresh roots of althaea officinalis for medicinal use in amounts of 50-100 grams.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm place for 1-2 weeks at 50-60°c temperature.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powder with a binding agent like gelatin in a ratio of 1:1.
- Fill a capsule mold with the powder mixture and seal the capsules for 5-10 minutes.
7. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold capsules helps with dry mouth because they contain the herb Calendula officinalis, which has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth.
The capsules' anti-inflammatory effects help to reduce inflammation and irritation caused by xerostomia (dry mouth), alleviating symptoms such as dryness, stickiness, and burning sensations.
Additionally, pot marigold's antioxidant properties may also help to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to dry mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis capsules that help with dry mouth.
- Saponins: These compounds help to stimulate saliva production and improve oral hydration, which can alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
- Flavonoids: As potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, flavonoids can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the oral cavity, which may contribute to relief from dry mouth.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids have been shown to possess antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent infections that may exacerbate dry mouth, while also promoting a healthy oral environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make capsules for dry mouth.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and moisturize the mouth.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain bioactive compounds that can help reduce inflammation and promote oral health.
- Seeds: They are used because they contain antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can help protect the mouth and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dry mouth.
- Harvest 20-30 dried calendula officinalis flowers for the capsules and clean them thoroughly.
- Dry the flowers further in a low-temperature oven at 100°f for 2 hours to maintain potency.
- Grind the dried flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 1 minute.
- Fill gelatin capsules with 250-500mg of the calendula powder and seal them immediately.
- Store the herbal capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place for up to 1 year.
8. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender capsules helps with dry mouth because they contain a soothing compound called linalool, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties.
When ingested, this compound helps to reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, alleviating symptoms of dry mouth. Additionally, the calming effects of English lavender also promote relaxation and reduced stress levels, both of which can contribute to increased saliva production and improved oral hydration.
By addressing the underlying causes of dry mouth, these capsules provide natural relief for those suffering from this common condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia capsules that help with dry mouth.
- Linalool: This terpene acts as a mild anxiolytic and helps reduce stress, which can be a contributing factor to dry mouth. By promoting relaxation, linalool can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and protect the oral mucosa, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy environment that can help alleviate dry mouth.
- Caffeic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the mouth, promoting a healthy oral environment and alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make capsules for dry mouth.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe and moisturize the mouth.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain similar compounds to the flowers, such as flavonoids and terpenes, which help to calm and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth.
- Stems: They are used due to their high content of mucilage, a natural substance that helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing dryness and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for dry mouth.
- Harvest 100g of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers when they are free of contaminants and in optimal condition.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 2 hours to maintain their potency.
- Weigh 60g of the dried flowers and mix with 30g of a gelatin capsule filler.
- Fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with the flower-gelatin mixture using a capsule filling machine.
- Store the filled capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 years.
9. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint capsules helps with dry mouth because they contain menthol, a natural ingredient that stimulates saliva production.
When taken orally, peppermint oil is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the salivary glands, increasing moisture levels in the mouth. This can help alleviate symptoms of dry mouth, such as sticky or rough feeling, bad breath, and difficulty speaking or eating.
Additionally, peppermint's cooling sensation can provide temporary relief from discomfort associated with dry mouth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita capsules that help with dry mouth.
- Menthol: Menthol helps to stimulate saliva production, thereby alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
- Limonene: Limonene has been shown to have expectorant properties, which can help to increase saliva flow and reduce dry mouth.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing dryness and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make capsules for dry mouth.
- Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are commonly used to make capsules for dry mouth due to their high content of menthol, which helps to stimulate saliva production.
- Buds: The buds of Mentha x piperita are used to make capsules for dry mouth as they contain a high concentration of menthone, an antiseptic and expectorant that helps to relieve dry mouth symptoms.
- Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are also used to make capsules for dry mouth due to their cooling and soothing properties, which help to calm dry mouth irritation and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for dry mouth.
- Harvest 100g of fresh leaves of mentha x piperita on a sunny morning after dew has dried.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 30°c for 2 hours to remove moisture.
- Grind 50g of dried leaves into a fine powder using a high-speed blender for 30 seconds.
- Mix 1g of the ground powder with 4g of gelatin in a small bowl to create the capsule filling.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the mixture from step 4 using a manual capsule filler and seal securely.
10. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme capsules helps with dry mouth because they contain the natural antibacterial properties of thyme, which can help to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the mouth.
The capsules' antioxidant-rich compounds also work to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to dryness and irritation.
By promoting healthy oral flora and reducing inflammation, herbal thyme capsules can help to restore a healthy balance to the mouth, alleviating symptoms of dry mouth and promoting a sense of comfort and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris capsules that help with dry mouth.
- Thymol: Thymol acts as a natural expectorant and helps to stimulate saliva production, which can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the mouth and promote healthy saliva production.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect the mouth from further irritation and promote saliva production.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make capsules for dry mouth.
- Leaves: They are used because of their high content of volatile oils, particularly thymol, which has antimicrobial properties that help soothe and moisturize the mouth.
- Flowers: They are used for their fragrance and flavor, which can contribute to the overall sensation of oral health and comfort.
- Roots: They are used as a complementary part to the leaves, as they may contain additional bioactive compounds that can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for dry mouth.
- Harvest 250 grams of dried thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers to ensure sufficient material for encapsulation.
- Dry the harvested material in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried thymus vulgaris into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder for 5 minutes.
- Mix 1:1 ratio of thymus vulgaris powder with 250 milligrams of vegetable capsule powder to create the filling.
- Fill 100 empty capsules with the thymus vulgaris mixture using a manual capsule filler and seal them immediately.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for dry mouth?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with dry mouth is a blend of Licorice root, Marshmallow root, and Slippery Elm.
Licorice root helps to soothe and moisturize the mucous membranes, while Marshmallow root provides anti-inflammatory properties to reduce discomfort and promote saliva production. Slippery Elm, rich in mucilages, coats and protects the oral mucosa, providing long-lasting relief from dry mouth symptoms.
This combination helps to restore moisture and promote overall oral health.
What ailments similar to dry mouth are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to dry mouth that are treated with herbal capsules are gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease, and acid reflux.
Herbal supplements like slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root help soothe digestive tract inflammation, reduce irritation, and promote healthy mucous production.
These natural remedies can also address respiratory concerns like bronchitis, asthma, and chronic coughs by loosening mucus and reducing inflammation in the airways.