10 Best Herbal Teas For Dry Mouth

Herbal teas for dry mouth are natural remedies that help alleviate dry, irritated mouths by stimulating saliva production.

They work by soothing the oral tissues, reducing inflammation, and promoting moisture. Examples of herbal teas that help include slippery elm, aloe vera, and peppermint.

These teas can significantly improve lives by providing relief from discomfort, reducing the risk of oral infections, and promoting overall oral health.

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

1. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with dry mouth because it stimulates saliva production and has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the mucous membranes.

The saponins and flavonoids present in sage tea have been shown to increase saliva flow and reduce inflammation in the oral cavity, thereby alleviating dry mouth symptoms. Additionally, sage tea's antioxidant properties help protect the oral tissues from oxidative stress, promoting a healthy and moist oral environment.

This makes sage tea a popular natural remedy for dry mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps with dry mouth by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in soothing and protecting the mucous membranes in the mouth.
• Salvianolic acid b: This polyphenolic compound has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to reducing inflammation and promoting the health of the mucous membranes, ultimately helping to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
• Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds help with dry mouth by having astringent properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and tighten the mucous membranes, thereby promoting the production of saliva and helping to soothe dry mouth.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm dry mouth and provide relief.
• Stems: The stems are also used, but to a lesser extent, for their ability to add flavor and contribute to the overall medicinal properties of the tea.
• Flowers: The flowers of Salvia officinalis are used to add flavor and a floral note to the tea, while also providing some medicinal benefits.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh salvia officinalis leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom for optimal flavor and potency.
2. Rinse the harvested salvia leaves and flowers with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Chop the clean salvia leaves and flowers into small pieces to release their oils and flavors.
4. Steep one teaspoon of chopped salvia in a cup of boiling water for five to ten minutes to release the flavors.
5. Strain the tea and serve it hot or iced depending on your preference and add honey if desired.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with dry mouth because of its unique properties.

The root of the plant contains glycyrrhizin, a natural compound that has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on mucous membranes. By reducing inflammation and promoting saliva production, licorice tea can provide relief from dry mouth symptoms. Additionally, its mucilaginous properties help to protect and moisturize the oral cavity, further alleviating discomfort associated with dry mouth.

Regular consumption of licorice tea may help to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizic acid: This triterpenoid saponin helps to increase saliva production and soothe the mucous membranes, alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
• Liquiritigenin: This isoflavonoid has anti-inflammatory properties and can stimulate the secretion of saliva, helping to combat dry mouth.
• Licoricidin: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce inflammation and promote the healing of oral mucosa, ultimately contributing to the relief of dry mouth.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps to soothe and moisturize the mucous membranes, relieving dry mouth symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their mild flavor and additional glycyrrhizin content, contributing to the tea's therapeutic properties.
• Barks: The barks are also used for their glycyrrhizin content, as well as their astringent properties, which help to reduce inflammation and dryness in the mouth.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest glycyrrhiza glabra roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full maturity.
2. Dry the harvested roots for 2 weeks in a warm place or using a food dehydrator at 40 degrees celsius.
3. Crush the dried roots into fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle for 2 minutes.
4. Measure out 1 to 2 teaspoons of the powdered root per 8 ounces of boiling water for tea.
5. Steep the tea for 5 to 10 minutes and strain before serving to enjoy the herbal tea.

3. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with dry mouth because of its natural ability to stimulate saliva production.

The menthol present in peppermint tea acts as an expectorant, loosening mucus and increasing the flow of saliva. This helps to moisturize the mouth, reducing the sensation of dryness and discomfort. Additionally, peppermint tea's refreshing and cooling sensation can help to soothe and calm the mouth, providing relief from dry mouth symptoms.

This natural remedy can be a gentle and effective solution for dry mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Menthol helps with dry mouth by providing a temporary analgesic and anesthetic effect on the mucous membranes, reducing pain and discomfort associated with dry mouth.
• Menthone: Menthone has a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect on the mucous membranes, which helps to reduce inflammation and promote the production of saliva, thereby alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
• Limonene: Limonene exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi in the mouth, contributing to the development of dry mouth.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part for making teas due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which provide a cooling sensation and help relieve dry mouth.
• Stems: The stems contain a smaller amount of essential oils compared to the leaves, but still contribute to the overall flavor and aroma of the tea.
• Roots: Although not as widely used as leaves, roots of Mentha x piperita can be used to make teas, particularly in traditional medicine, due to their ability to stimulate digestive processes and help with dry mouth relief.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1/4 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves or 2 teaspoons of dried leaves for the tea.
2. Heat 8 ounces of water in a kettle or saucepan to a boil at 212 degrees fahrenheit.
3. Steep the leaves in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the oils and flavors.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the leaves.
5. Serve the tea hot or iced and enjoy within 30 minutes to 1 hour of preparation.

4. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, teas helps with dry mouth because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea has been traditionally used to calm the nervous system and reduce stress, which can contribute to dry mouth. The antioxidants and flavonoids present in the tea have a hydrating effect on the mouth, promoting saliva production and reducing inflammation in the salivary glands.

This results in a refreshing and calming sensation, alleviating the discomfort associated with dry mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps with dry mouth by exerting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation in the salivary glands and promoting saliva production.
• Linalool: A terpene that contributes to the soothing and calming effects of Melissa officinalis, helping to reduce anxiety and stress, which can be a contributing factor to dry mouth.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect the salivary glands and promote saliva production, thereby alleviating dry mouth symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Melissa officinalis for teas due to their high content of rosmarinic acid, which helps to soothe and moisturize the mouth and throat.
• Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis contain similar properties to the leaves, making them a suitable alternative for teas to combat dry mouth.
• Flowers: The flowers of Melissa officinalis are also used in teas to provide a calming effect and help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1/4 cup of melissa officinalis leaves and flowers and wash them thoroughly with cold water.
2. Steep the herbs in 1 quart of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their oils.
3. Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large container.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste to balance the bitter flavor of the melissa officinalis.
5. Serve the tea immediately and let it steep for 5-10 minutes before drinking.

5. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, also known as rosemary, teas helps with dry mouth because of its natural ability to stimulate saliva production.

The herb contains compounds like rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to have a positive effect on the salivary glands. This increase in saliva production helps to counteract the symptoms of dry mouth, such as a dry, sticky sensation in the mouth and throat.

Regular consumption of rosemary tea may provide relief from dry mouth and promote oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene helps to stimulate saliva production and improve oral hydration, thereby alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
• Rosmarinic acid: As a polyphenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and dryness in the oral cavity, promoting healthy saliva production.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which may help prevent oral infections and promote a healthy oral environment, thereby contributing to improved saliva production and reduced dry mouth symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make teas for dry mouth.

• Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and essential oils that help stimulate saliva production and soothe dry mouth.
• Flowers: They are a good source of flavonoids and other compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and promote oral health.
• Stems: They contain oils and antioxidants that can help to stimulate saliva production and provide relief from dry mouth symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves in the early morning when they are at their peak fragrance and flavor.
2. Rinse the leaves with filtered water to remove any dirt or debris from the harvest process immediately.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes or until the desired flavor and aroma are achieved slowly.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids to enjoy a refreshing and potentially medicinal herbal infusion.

6. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with dry mouth because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

The plant's flavonoids and saponins help to soothe and moisturize the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with dry mouth. Additionally, Calendula's antiseptic properties help to combat bacterial overgrowth, which can contribute to dry mouth symptoms.

This natural remedy provides a gentle and non-irritating solution to alleviate dry mouth discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Oleanolic acid: Oleanolic acid, a triterpenoid saponin, helps with dry mouth by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which may reduce inflammation in the mouth and promote saliva production.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps with dry mouth by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which may protect the oral mucosa, reduce inflammation, and promote saliva production.
• Calendulin: Calendulin, a triterpenoid saponin, helps with dry mouth by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties and promoting mucosal healing, which may reduce inflammation and promote saliva production in the mouth.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: Used for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties to help reduce dry mouth discomfort.
• Leaves: Used to provide a calming effect and to help stimulate saliva production, alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
• Stems: Used for their mild anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and moisturize the oral mucosa.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 calendula flowers on a dry sunny day to ensure optimal potency and flavor.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer on a paper bag for 7-10 days.
3. Crush 2-3 teaspoons of dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the powdered calendula in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup for serving.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with dry mouth because of its ability to stimulate saliva production.

The plant's leaves and roots contain compounds that have natural diuretic properties, which can help increase blood flow to the salivary glands. This increase in blood flow promotes the production of saliva, thereby alleviating dry mouth symptoms.

Additionally, dandelion tea has anti-inflammatory properties that may also help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, providing further relief from dryness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with dry mouth.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds, particularly quercetin, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and moisturize the oral mucosa to alleviate dry mouth.
• Phenolic acids: Compounds like chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which can aid in reducing inflammation and infection that may exacerbate dry mouth.
• Saponins: These bioactive compounds, such as aucubin, have been found to have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the oral cavity, thereby alleviating dry mouth symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for dry mouth.

• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and having anti-inflammatory properties, the leaves of Taraxacum officinale help to soothe and moisturize the mouth.
• Roots: Containing inulin and other compounds that promote saliva production, the roots of Taraxacum officinale help to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
• Flowers: Acting as a natural expectorant, the flowers of Taraxacum officinale help to stimulate saliva production and reduce dryness in the mouth.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25-30 leaves and flower tops of the plant from a clean and pesticide-free area.
2. Rinse the harvested parts gently with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Chop the rinsed parts into small pieces and combine with 250ml of boiling water in a cup.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the liquid and discard the solids before serving the taraxacum officinale tea.

8. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, teas helps with dry mouth because of its ability to stimulate saliva production.

The tea's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing dryness and discomfort. Additionally, Echinacea's immunomodulatory effects may help to address underlying issues that contribute to dry mouth, such as autoimmune disorders or hormonal imbalances.

As a result, Echinacea purpurea tea can provide relief from dry mouth and promote overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with dry mouth.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help stimulate saliva production and have anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have antioxidant properties that can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing dryness and discomfort.
• Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to increase saliva production and exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make teas for dry mouth.

• Roots: Echinacea roots are used in teas to treat dry mouth because they contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe mouth irritations.
• Leaves: Echinacea leaves are used in teas to treat dry mouth because they have antimicrobial properties that help combat bacteria and fungi causing dryness and irritation.
• Flowers: Echinacea flowers are used in teas to treat dry mouth because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to protect and soothe the mucous membranes in the mouth.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 echinacea purpurea flower heads when they are fully bloomed and in the late morning.
2. Dry the harvested echinacea purpurea flowers in a single layer for 7-10 days at room temperature.
3. Combine 1 tablespoon of dried echinacea purpurea flowers with 8 ounces of boiling water in a teapot.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.

9. Origanum vulgare

Origanum vulgare, also known as wild marjoram, teas helps with dry mouth because of its unique properties.

The herb contains antioxidants and flavonoids that stimulate saliva production, helping to moisten and soothe dry mouth. The tea's anti-inflammatory properties also reduce irritation and inflammation in the mouth, promoting a healthy environment for saliva to flow. Additionally, the expectorant properties of wild marjoram help loosen mucus, further contributing to the relief of dry mouth symptoms.

This herbal remedy offers a natural solution for dry mouth sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps with dry mouth by acting as a natural antioxidant, reducing inflammation, and promoting saliva production.
• Carvacrol: A monoterpenic phenol with antimicrobial properties that can help alleviate dry mouth by inhibiting the growth of bacteria in the mouth, reducing inflammation, and promoting oral health.
• Thymol: A monoterpenic phenol that contributes to the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of Origanum vulgare tea, helping to combat oral infections and promote saliva production to alleviate dry mouth.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make teas for dry mouth.

• Leaves: Known for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which help soothe and moisturize the mouth.
• Flowers: Rich in volatile oils that provide anti-inflammatory effects, reducing dry mouth discomfort and promoting oral health.
• Roots: Contain bioactive compounds that have been traditionally used to treat various oral health issues, including dry mouth.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried origanum vulgare leaves and 1 cup of boiling water for brewing.
2. Steep the origanum vulgare leaves in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release flavors.
3. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to remove solids.
4. Add honey to taste to sweeten the tea if desired for flavor enhancement purposes only.
5. Serve the tea immediately and consume within 30 minutes for maximum potency and effectiveness.

10. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with dry mouth because of its natural ability to stimulate saliva production.

The herb contains compounds such as carvacrol and thymol, which have been shown to increase the flow of saliva in the mouth. This can help to soothe and moisturize the mucous membranes, reducing the symptoms of dry mouth.

Additionally, thyme's antimicrobial properties can help to prevent infections and promote a healthy oral environment, further contributing to its benefits in addressing dry mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Bornyl acetate: This sesquiterpene acts as a natural expectorant, helping to thin and increase saliva production, which can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
• Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the oral cavity and promote saliva production, alleviating dry mouth.
• Carvacrol: A phenolic monoterpenoid, carvacrol exhibits antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the growth of oral bacteria, which can contribute to dry mouth. Additionally, carvacrol may also stimulate saliva production to help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Leaves are used because they contain thymol, a compound with antibacterial properties that helps soothe dry mouth.
• Buds: Buds are used because they have a higher concentration of thymol than the leaves, making them more effective in treating dry mouth.
• Stems: Stems are used because they also contain thymol and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25g of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves or 10g of dried leaves for optimal flavor.
2. Steep the leaves in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release essential oils.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste if desired to balance the bitter flavor.
5. Serve the tea immediately and enjoy the soothing and calming effects within minutes.

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

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

Licorice root soothes and calms the mucous membranes, while Slippery elm coats and protects them from irritation. Marshmallow root adds its anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation and promote healing. This trio works together to hydrate, protect, and soothe the mouth, providing relief from dryness and discomfort.

Regular consumption can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms and promote overall oral health.

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

Ailments similar to dry mouth that are treated with herbal teas are digestive issues such as constipation, bloating, and indigestion.

Teas like peppermint, chamomile, and fennel can soothe the stomach and relax the digestive system, relieving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal disorders.

Additionally, herbal teas like slippery elm and marshmallow root can help to calm inflammation in the mouth and throat, providing relief from conditions such as gum disease, tonsillitis, and laryngitis.