10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Dry Mouth

Herbal decoctions for dry mouth are a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to alleviate symptoms of xerostomia, or dry mouth.

By steeping herbs in hot water, these decoctions release beneficial compounds that help stimulate saliva production and soothe the mucous membranes in the mouth. Examples include slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root decoctions, which can improve oral health by reducing inflammation, plaque buildup, and bad breath.

For individuals with dry mouth, these herbal remedies can greatly enhance their daily lives by allowing them to enjoy their favorite foods and drinks without discomfort, improving overall oral function and confidence.

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

1. Sambucus nigra

Elder decoctions helps with dry mouth because they stimulate saliva production, which is essential for maintaining a healthy oral environment.

The elder plant contains flavonoids and polyphenols that have been shown to increase salivary flow and reduce symptoms of xerostomia. Additionally, elder's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing discomfort associated with dry mouth.

By increasing saliva production and reducing inflammation, herbal elder decoctions provide natural relief for individuals suffering from chronic dry mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra decoctions that help with dry mouth.

• Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing dryness and discomfort.
• Phenolic acids: They exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help to alleviate dry mouth symptoms by reducing inflammation and promoting the health of the oral mucosa.
• Volatile oils: These terpenes have antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent infections that may contribute to dry mouth, while also providing a soothing and moisturizing effect on the oral mucosa.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make decoctions for dry mouth.

• Flowers: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids and mucilages, which help to soothe and moisturize the mouth.
• Leaves: They are used because of their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and dryness in the mouth.
• Stems: They are used due to their ability to act as a demulcent, providing a protective layer and helping to retain moisture in the mouth.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for dry mouth.

1. Gather 25-30 grams of dried sambucus nigra flowers and leaves from a trusted herbal supplier or wild harvest.
2. Measure out 1 quart of water and bring it to a rolling boil in a large saucepan over high heat.
3. Add the dried sambucus nigra to the boiling water and reduce the heat to medium-low for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl to remove solids.
5. Allow the decoction to cool completely before transferring it to a dark glass bottle for storage.

2. Myrrhis odorata

Sweet cicely decoctions helps with dry mouth because of its ability to stimulate saliva production and soothe the mucous membranes in the mouth.

The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and irritation, while its expectorant properties loosen and clear mucus from the throat and sinuses, promoting a healthy oral environment.

Additionally, sweet cicely's antimicrobial properties may help combat harmful bacteria that can exacerbate dry mouth symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Myrrhis odorata decoctions that help with dry mouth.

• Flavonoids: They help with dry mouth by possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in soothing and protecting the mucous membranes in the mouth.
• Phenolic acids: They help with dry mouth by exhibiting antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions, which can help reduce inflammation and infection in the mouth, promoting a healthier environment for saliva production.
• Saponins: They help with dry mouth by having a soothing and protective effect on mucous membranes, potentially helping to reduce inflammation and promote the production of saliva.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sweet cicely used to make decoctions for dry mouth.

• Roots: The roots are used to make decoctions for dry mouth due to their stimulating and expectorant properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make decoctions for dry mouth due to their antiseptic and soothing properties.
• Stems: The stems are used to make decoctions for dry mouth due to their expectorant and mucilaginous properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sweet cicely for dry mouth.

1. Harvest 30-60g of fresh or 20-40g of dried myrrhis odorata roots and leaves in early morning.
2. Rinse the harvested material with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Chop the rinsed myrrhis odorata material into smaller pieces to increase its surface area.
4. Steep 5-10g of chopped myrrhis odorata material in 500ml of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

3. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow decoctions helps with dry mouth because they stimulate saliva production, providing natural relief from this uncomfortable condition.

The anti-inflammatory properties of yarrow help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing irritation and discomfort. Additionally, the expectorant qualities of yarrow help loosen and clear away excess mucus, allowing for a healthier oral environment.

By increasing salivation and promoting a balanced oral microbiome, yarrow decoctions can effectively alleviate dry mouth symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium decoctions that help with dry mouth.

• Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation in the mouth and promote saliva production, alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
• Flavonoids: As flavonoids, Achillea millefolium's quercetin and luteolin have shown potential in stimulating saliva production and reducing oxidative stress, which can contribute to dry mouth.
• Terpenes: Bornyl acetate and camphor, terpenes found in Achillea millefolium, exhibit expectorant properties that may help increase saliva production and reduce inflammation in the oral cavity, alleviating dry mouth symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make decoctions for dry mouth.

• Leaves: Dried leaves of Achillea millefolium are commonly used in decoctions for dry mouth because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe the mucous membranes.
• Flowers: The flowers of Achillea millefolium are often used in decoctions for dry mouth due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and promote saliva production.
• Roots: The roots of Achillea millefolium are sometimes used in decoctions for dry mouth because they are rich in saponins and other compounds that can help stimulate saliva production and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for dry mouth.

1. Harvest 25 to 50 grams of fresh achillea millefolium leaves and flowers or 10 to 20 grams of dried plant material.
2. Chop the plant material into smaller pieces to release its medicinal properties and increase its surface area.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass or ceramic container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the plant's active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove the solids.

4. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold decoctions helps with dry mouth because it contains calendula, a natural anti-inflammatory agent that soothes and calms the mucous membranes in the mouth.

This calming effect reduces inflammation and irritation, allowing for the production of saliva to return to normal.

Additionally, the antioxidants present in pot marigold decoctions help to protect the oral cavity from free radicals, which can damage healthy cells and contribute to dry mouth symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with dry mouth.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and moisturize the oral tissues, reducing dry mouth symptoms.
• Phenolic acids: These antioxidants help protect the oral mucosa from oxidative stress, promoting a healthy oral environment and alleviating dry mouth.
• Flavonoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and bacterial growth in the mouth, contributing to dry mouth relief.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for dry mouth.

• Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part due to their high content of mucilage, which provides soothing and protective properties for dry mouth.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used, as they contain similar properties to the flowers, offering relief from dryness and irritation.
• Roots: The roots of Calendula officinalis are sometimes used, although less frequently than the flowers and leaves, as they contain compounds that may contribute to the decoction's soothing effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for dry mouth.

1. Gather 20-30 dried calendula flowers and rinse them gently with cold water for 2 minutes to remove impurities.
2. Combine the rinsed calendula flowers with 4 cups of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
3. Steep the calendula flowers in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture reduces slightly.
4. Strain the calendula decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
5. Store the calendula decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with dry mouth because of its soothing properties, which can help to calm inflammation in the mucous membranes of the mouth.

The flavonoids and glycyrrhizin present in licorice root have been shown to have a direct impact on the saliva glands, stimulating the production of saliva and reducing symptoms of dryness. By doing so, it helps to rehydrate the oral cavity, reducing discomfort and improving overall oral health.

This natural remedy provides a gentle and effective way to alleviate dry mouth, making it an excellent alternative for those looking for a herbal solution.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenoid saponins: This constituent helps to stimulate saliva production by influencing the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, thereby reducing cortisol levels and promoting the release of saliva.
• Flavonoids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate inflammation in the oral cavity and promote the repair of tissues, ultimately contributing to the relief of dry mouth symptoms.
• Phenolic acids: This constituent has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the oral cavity, thereby promoting saliva production and alleviating dry mouth symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for dry mouth.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are most commonly used to make decoctions for dry mouth due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a sweet-tasting compound that has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used in decoctions for dry mouth, but to a lesser extent, as they contain smaller amounts of glycyrrhizin and other active compounds.
• Seeds: Some traditional remedies use the seeds of Glycyrrhiza glabra, although their use is less common, as they contain smaller amounts of glycyrrhizin and other active compounds compared to the roots and leaves.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for dry mouth.

1. Harvest 50-100 grams of glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a trusted supplier and clean them thoroughly under running water.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces and combine them with 2 liters of water in a large saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat then reduce the heat to a simmer for 30-40 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a clean glass bottle for storage.

6. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel decoctions helps with dry mouth because they stimulate saliva production, which is essential for maintaining a healthy oral environment.

The natural licorice flavonoids present in fennel have been shown to increase salivation, reducing the severity of xerostomia (dry mouth) and alleviating related issues such as bad breath and tooth decay.

Additionally, fennel's anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe and calm dry, irritated mucous membranes, providing instant relief from the discomfort associated with a dry mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare decoctions that help with dry mouth.

• Anethole: Anethole is a terpene that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which can help to soothe and moisten the mucous membranes in the mouth, thereby alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
• Foeniculin: Foeniculin is a phenolic compound that has been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to protect the mucous membranes from oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to reduced dry mouth symptoms.
• Fenchone: Fenchone is a terpene that has been found to have carminative and expectorant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote the production of saliva, thereby alleviating dry mouth symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make decoctions for dry mouth.

• Leaves: The leaves of Foeniculum vulgare are the most commonly used part to make decoctions for dry mouth because of their high content of volatile oils, particularly anethole, which helps to stimulate saliva production.
• Seeds: Foeniculum vulgare seeds are also widely used for making decoctions due to their anise-like flavor and the presence of anethole, which has a soothing effect on the mouth.
• Barks: The barks of Foeniculum vulgare are used in decoctions for dry mouth because they contain astringent and antiseptic properties that help to reduce inflammation and promote the healing of mouth ulcers.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for dry mouth.

1. Harvest fresh foeniculum vulgare leaves and flowers in the morning or late afternoon when they are at their peak potency.
2. Gently chop 10-20 grams of the harvested foeniculum vulgare into smaller pieces to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped foeniculum vulgare with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove the solids and discard the solids.

7. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint decoctions helps with dry mouth because its active compounds, such as menthol and rosmarinic acid, have natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the mouth.

This reduces inflammation and irritation, which can contribute to dryness. Additionally, peppermint's cooling sensation can stimulate saliva production, helping to replenish moisture in the mouth and alleviate dryness and discomfort.

As a result, herbal peppermint decoctions provide effective relief for individuals experiencing dry mouth due to various conditions or medications.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: It helps stimulate saliva production and provides a cooling sensation that can aid in soothing a dry mouth.
• Menthone: It has a mild analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, which can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with dry mouth.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the oral cavity, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more moisturized mouth.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for dry mouth.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol, which helps stimulate saliva production and relieve dry mouth.
• Roots: The roots of peppermint are also used to make decoctions, as they contain menthol and other compounds that have a soothing effect on the mucous membranes, reducing dryness.
• Stems: The stems of peppermint are sometimes used to make decoctions, although less frequently than leaves or roots, as they still contain some menthol and other compounds that can help alleviate dry mouth.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for dry mouth.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers to use in the decoction.
2. Dry the harvested material in a single layer at 35-40 degrees celsius for 1-2 hours.
3. Combine 1 tablespoon of dried mentha x piperita with 1 quart of boiling water in a pot.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes before straining it with a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve.
5. Store the cooled decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

8. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm decoctions helps with dry mouth because of its ability to stimulate saliva production.

The herb's soothing properties help to relax the salivary glands, allowing them to function properly and produce more saliva. This can provide relief from the discomfort and pain associated with a dry mouth, such as burning sensations and difficulty speaking or eating.

Additionally, lemon balm decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the oral cavity, further contributing to its effectiveness in alleviating symptoms of dry mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis decoctions that help with dry mouth.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate dry mouth symptoms by reducing inflammation in the mouth and throat.
• Volatile oils: These terpenes have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe and calm irritated tissues in the mouth, reducing dryness and discomfort.
• Melitricine: This alkaloid has been shown to have a mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect, which may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the oral cavity, alleviating dry mouth symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for dry mouth.

• Leaves: Leaves of Melissa officinalis are the most commonly used part to make decoctions for dry mouth because they contain high amounts of rosmarinic acid, which has a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect on the mucous membranes.
• Stems: Stems are also used to make decoctions for dry mouth due to their ability to provide a sustained release of rosmarinic acid and other bioactive compounds.
• Roots: Roots are sometimes used to make decoctions for dry mouth, particularly in traditional herbal medicine, as they are believed to have a grounding and balancing effect on the body's energy.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for dry mouth.

1. Gather 20-30 grams of dried melissa officinalis leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly.
2. Combine the cleaned melissa officinalis with 1 liter of boiling water in a saucepan.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl.
5. Store the decoction in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

9. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme decoctions helps with dry mouth because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive compounds present in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to reduce the growth of bacteria that can contribute to dry mouth symptoms. Additionally, thyme's antioxidant properties help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and irritation associated with dry mouth.

This natural remedy provides relief from dryness, discomfort, and bad breath, promoting a healthier oral environment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris decoctions that help with dry mouth.

• Thymol: Thymol helps with dry mouth by its antimicrobial properties, which reduce inflammation and promote saliva production to counteract dryness.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid may help with dry mouth by its antioxidant properties, which can reduce oxidative stress and promote healthy saliva production and secretion.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol helps with dry mouth by its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce inflammation and promote a healthy oral environment, potentially increasing saliva production and reducing dryness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make decoctions for dry mouth.

• Leaves: The essential oils in the leaves of Thymus vulgaris help to stimulate saliva production and reduce dry mouth symptoms.
• Stems: The stems of Thymus vulgaris contain compounds that help to increase saliva production and alleviate dry mouth.
• Buds: The buds of Thymus vulgaris are used to make decoctions that help to stimulate saliva production and provide relief from dry mouth.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for dry mouth.

1. Gather 20 grams of fresh or dried thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers for the decoction.
2. Combine the thymus vulgaris with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Strain the thymus vulgaris decoction through a cheesecloth into a separate container.
5. Discard the solids and store the thymus vulgaris decoction in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

10. Salvia officinalis

Sage decoctions helps with dry mouth because of its unique composition, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

The decoction's mucilages soothe and lubricate the oral cavity, reducing inflammation and irritation that can cause dryness. Additionally, sage's natural antibacterial properties help combat harmful bacteria that can contribute to dry mouth.

As a result, the decoction provides relief from the discomfort of dry mouth, promoting a healthy and balanced oral environment.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that acts as a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to soothe and moisten the mucous membranes, thus relieving dry mouth symptoms.
• Salvianolic acid: A water-soluble phenolic acid that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and promote saliva production, alleviating dry mouth discomfort.
• Thujone: A terpene with potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help reduce inflammation and infection in the oral cavity, promoting a healthy environment and alleviating dry mouth symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make decoctions for dry mouth.

• Leaves: Leaves are the primary part of Salvia officinalis used for making decoctions to relieve dry mouth due to their high content of saponins, which help to stimulate saliva production.
• Stems: Stems of Salvia officinalis are also used in decoctions to relieve dry mouth due to their ability to increase saliva production and soothe the mucous membranes.
• Roots: Roots of Salvia officinalis are occasionally used in decoctions to relieve dry mouth due to their ability to stimulate digestion and promote the production of saliva.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for dry mouth.

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried salvia officinalis leaves and store them in an airtight container.
2. Measure 1 cup of water in a saucepan and bring it to a boil at 212 degrees fahrenheit.
3. Add the dried salvia officinalis leaves to the boiling water and reduce the heat to low.
4. Simmer the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes and strain the liquid using a cheesecloth.
5. Store the herbal decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for dry mouth?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with dry mouth is a blend of Licorice root, Slippery Elm, and Marshmallow root.

Licorice root's anti-inflammatory properties soothe the mucous membranes, while Slippery Elm's mucilaginous properties provide a protective barrier against dryness. Marshmallow root's demulcent properties help lock in moisture, creating a soothing and protective environment for the mouth. This combination can be consumed as a tea or added to water to help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.

Regular use may promote oral health and comfort.

What ailments similar to dry mouth are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to dry mouth that are treated with herbal decoctions are conditions such as gum inflammation, tooth decay, and bad breath.

Herbal decoctions like neem, turmeric, and myrrh have been traditionally used to reduce inflammation, kill bacteria, and promote oral health.

Decoctions made from these herbs can also help soothe irritated mucous membranes and relieve symptoms of dry mouth, such as sticky saliva and difficulty swallowing.