10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Dry Mouth

Herbal tinctures for dry mouth are concentrated liquid extracts of plants, herbs, or botanicals used to treat symptoms of dry mouth.

These natural remedies help to stimulate saliva production and provide relief from discomfort, pain, and difficulty speaking or eating. Examples of herbal tinctures that can be effective against dry mouth include peppermint, sage, and licorice root.

By using these tinctures, individuals suffering from dry mouth due to medication side effects, radiation therapy, or other conditions can experience significant improvements in their daily lives, such as reduced discomfort during meals and improved overall oral health.

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

1. Sambucus nigra

Elder tinctures helps with dry mouth because they contain bioactive compounds that have a profound impact on oral health.

The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of elderberry help to reduce inflammation in the mouth, alleviating symptoms of dry mouth such as burning sensations and difficulty swallowing.

Additionally, the antioxidants present in elder tincture work to combat free radicals that can contribute to dry mouth, promoting a healthy balance of saliva production and overall oral well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms by reducing inflammation in the oral cavity.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the oral mucosa and saliva glands from oxidative stress and damage, thus alleviating dry mouth.
• Isoflavones: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the oral mucosa and saliva glands from oxidative stress and damage, thus alleviating dry mouth and promoting saliva production.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used to make tinctures for dry mouth due to their demulcent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and moisturize the mucous membranes.
• Leaves: They are used to make tinctures for dry mouth due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent infections in the mouth.
• Fruits (also known as elderberries): They are used to make tinctures for dry mouth due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect and soothe the mucous membranes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in the summer months when they are in full bloom.
2. Clean and dry the harvested sambucus nigra flowers and leaves using paper bags or a dehydrator.
3. Combine one part sambucus nigra flowers and leaves with one part 80 proof vodka in a glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid from the jar through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container.

2. Myrrhis odorata

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

The tannins and flavonoids present in sweet cicely have been shown to increase salivary flow, helping to combat xerostomia (dry mouth) caused by various factors such as medications, radiation therapy, or systemic diseases.

Additionally, sweet cicely's anti-inflammatory properties can reduce inflammation and irritation in the mouth, providing relief from discomfort associated with dry mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Furanocoumarins: These compounds have been found in Myrrhis odorata and may help to stimulate saliva production, which can alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
• Coumarins: Similar to furanocoumarins, coumarins may also have a saliva-stimulating effect, which can help to reduce the symptoms of dry mouth.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the mouth and gums, a common contributor to dry mouth.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Myrrhis odorata are used to make tinctures for dry mouth due to their ability to stimulate saliva production.
• Leaves: The leaves of Myrrhis odorata are used to make tinctures for dry mouth due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
• Stems: The stems of Myrrhis odorata are used to make tinctures for dry mouth due to their ability to stimulate digestive enzymes and help to increase saliva production.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh or 2 parts of dried myrrhis odorata leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Chop the harvested material into smaller pieces and combine with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
3. Steep the mixture in a clean glass jar for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the liquid to small dark glass bottles and store in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

3. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow tinctures helps with dry mouth because of its unique ability to stimulate saliva production.

The plant's bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have a natural effect on the mucous membranes, increasing moisture levels in the mouth. This can provide relief for individuals suffering from xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, which is often caused by medication, hormonal changes, or other health conditions.

By promoting saliva production, yarrow tinctures can help soothe and moisturize the mouth, reducing discomfort and improving overall oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Chlorogenic acid: Chlorogenic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the mouth, potentially alleviating symptoms of dry mouth.
• Apigenin: Apigenin is a flavonoid that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce inflammation and combat infections that may contribute to dry mouth.
• Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate is a terpene that has been found to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth, potentially alleviating symptoms of dry mouth.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties to help soothe and moisturize the mucous membranes in the mouth.
• Stems: Utilized for their antimicrobial properties to combat bacterial growth that can contribute to dry mouth.
• Flowers: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy saliva production.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh achillea millefolium flowers and leaves by cutting them in the morning.
2. Dry the harvested material in a warm dark place for 1 to 2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
3. Combine 1 part of dried achillea millefolium with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.

4. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with dry mouth because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The herb, also known as calendula, contains flavonoids and terpenes that help to reduce inflammation in the mucous membranes, which can become irritated due to dryness.

Additionally, the antioxidant properties of pot marigold help to protect the mouth from further damage caused by free radicals, promoting a healthier oral environment and alleviating symptoms of dry mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Calendula officinalis tinctures help alleviate dry mouth by reducing inflammation and improving oral mucosa health.
• Carotenoids: Carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene, in Calendula officinalis tinctures have antioxidant properties that help protect the oral mucosa from oxidative stress, contributing to a healthy oral environment and relief from dry mouth.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as caffeic acid, in Calendula officinalis tinctures exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help maintain a healthy oral microbiome and reduce inflammation associated with dry mouth.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and moisturize the oral cavity.
• Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect and heal the oral tissues affected by dry mouth.
• Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent infections in the oral cavity.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated for best potency.
2. Dry the flowers in a single layer at 25 degrees celsius for 7 to 10 days.
3. Combine 1 part dried flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Shake the jar vigorously for 10 minutes then store it in a cool dark place for 6 weeks.
5. Strain the mixture through a coffee filter into another clean glass container discard the solids.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with dry mouth because it contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties.

This compound has been shown to stimulate saliva production and help soothe irritated mucous membranes in the mouth. Additionally, licorice root has been traditionally used to treat digestive issues such as indigestion and heartburn, which can also contribute to dry mouth symptoms.

By using an herbal licorice tincture, individuals may experience relief from dry mouth discomfort and improved oral health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin helps with dry mouth by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, promoting saliva production.
• Licoricidin: Licoricidin helps with dry mouth by possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect the mucous membranes and promote saliva production.
• Isoliquiritigenin: Isoliquiritigenin helps with dry mouth by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat, promoting saliva production and reducing the risk of oral infections.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They contain glycyrrhizin, a compound responsible for the soothing and moisturizing effects on the mucous membranes.
• Leaves: They are rich in glycosides, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, helping to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
• Stems: They contain bioactive compounds that help to stimulate saliva production and reduce inflammation in the mouth, making them useful for dry mouth tinctures.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of glycyrrhiza glabra roots in early spring or fall and clean them thoroughly with water.
2. Chop 1 part of the cleaned roots into small pieces and dry them in a well-ventilated area for 2 weeks.
3. Combine 1 part of the dried root pieces with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass container.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the container every day.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container discarding the solids.

6. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel tinctures helps with dry mouth because of its unique ability to stimulate saliva production.

The herb's natural oils and compounds, such as anethole and fenchone, have a direct impact on the salivary glands, increasing their activity and output. As a result, fennel tincture can help to hydrate and moisten the mouth, reducing symptoms of dryness, discomfort, and inflammation associated with xerostomia.

This natural remedy provides fast and effective relief for individuals experiencing chronic or temporary dry mouth issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Anethole: This phenolic compound has been shown to stimulate saliva production, helping to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
• Foeniculin: A lignan found in Foeniculum vulgare, foeniculin has been reported to have anti-inflammatory properties and may contribute to the relief of dry mouth by reducing inflammation in the oral cavity.
• Selinene: A sesquiterpene, selinene has been identified as a potential saliva stimulant, which can help increase saliva production and alleviate dry mouth symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Seeds: Fennel seeds are commonly used due to their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and relieve dry mouth symptoms.
• Leaves: Fennel leaves are used for their expectorant and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote saliva production, alleviating dry mouth.
• Roots: Fennel roots are utilized for their demulcent properties, which help to protect and soothe the mucous membranes in the mouth, relieving dryness and discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25-30g of fresh foeniculum vulgare plant material in the morning when the dew is still present.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at room temperature for 7-10 days.
3. Combine 25-30g of dried plant material with 250ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids.

7. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with dry mouth because of its natural ability to stimulate saliva production.

The menthol content in peppermint has a cooling effect on the mucous membranes, which can help increase salivary flow and provide temporary relief from dryness. Additionally, peppermint's antibacterial properties can also help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of bacteria that can contribute to dry mouth.

Overall, peppermint tinctures can provide fast-acting and natural relief for individuals suffering from dry mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Menthol helps with dry mouth by acting as a local anesthetic, reducing inflammation and providing temporary relief from dryness and discomfort in the mouth and throat.
• Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the oral cavity, which can contribute to dry mouth, and also has antimicrobial properties that can help to prevent infections.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the oral cavity, which can contribute to dry mouth, and also has antimicrobial properties that can help to prevent infections and promote healing.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the primary source of menthol and menthone, which are responsible for peppermint's decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: The stems are used for their high concentration of menthol and other volatile oils, making them effective for relieving dry mouth and reducing inflammation.
• Roots: The roots contain a higher concentration of menthol and other compounds than the leaves, making them a popular choice for creating tinctures for dry mouth and digestive issues.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh mint leaves in the morning when the plant is at its highest oil content approximately 1 pound of leaves.
2. Gently wash the mint leaves with cold water to remove dirt and debris without bruising the leaves.
3. Combine the mint leaves with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar at a ratio of 1:5.
4. Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar every few days.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and store in a cool dark place.

8. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm tinctures helps with dry mouth because it possesses natural soothing properties that calm and relax the salivary glands, thereby increasing saliva production.

The herb's antibacterial properties also help to reduce inflammation in the mouth, which can exacerbate dryness. Additionally, lemon balm's ability to reduce stress and anxiety can also contribute to its benefits, as a dry mouth is often a symptom of these conditions.

By using an herbal lemon balm tincture, individuals can experience relief from dry mouth symptoms and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable oral environment.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant properties that help soothe and moisturize the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing dryness and discomfort.
• Linalool: As a terpene, linalool has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help reduce inflammation and fight off infections in the mouth, thereby alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene also has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and irritation in the mouth, promoting a healthy environment that can help alleviate dry mouth.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Melissa officinalis are commonly used to make tinctures for dry mouth because they contain high concentrations of bioactive compounds that help stimulate saliva production.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make tinctures for dry mouth due to their ability to act as a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, helping to soothe and protect oral tissues.
• Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis are sometimes used to make tinctures for dry mouth as they contain compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent infections and promote healing in the mouth.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in late summer when the plant is in full bloom.
2. Clean and dry the melissa officinalis material by gently shaking off excess water.
3. Combine 1 part of dried melissa officinalis with 2 parts of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it daily for 4 to 6 weeks.
5. Filter the tincture into a clean glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place.

9. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme tinctures helps with dry mouth because of its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb's compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to stimulate saliva production and reduce inflammation in the mouth. This can provide relief from dryness, discomfort, and even bad breath.

Additionally, thyme tinctures may also help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the mouth, promoting a healthy oral environment and reducing the risk of infection.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Thymol: Thymol has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the mouth and promote saliva production, alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth, reducing dryness and discomfort.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and promote the health of the salivary glands, leading to increased saliva production and relief from dry mouth.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high concentration of thymol, a compound known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe dry mouth.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth.
• Buds: The buds are used for their concentrated thymol content and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in treating dry mouth and promoting a healthy oral environment.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers at peak potency during early morning.
2. Clean and dry the thymus vulgaris material thoroughly using a dehydrator set at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours.
3. Chop the dried thymus vulgaris material into small pieces and mix with 80 proof vodka in a 1:2 ratio by weight.
4. Store the mixture in a glass jar and let it steep in a dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids, then transfer the tincture to dark glass dropper bottles for storage.

10. Salvia officinalis

Sage tinctures helps with dry mouth because of its natural ability to stimulate saliva production.

The essential oils present in sage, such as thujone and camphor, have been shown to increase salivary flow by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, which regulates digestion and oral function. This increased saliva production can help to moisten the mouth, reducing symptoms of dry mouth and discomfort associated with this condition.

Additionally, sage's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic acid helps alleviate dry mouth by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe and protect oral mucosa.
• Carnosic acid: As a terpene, carnosic acid can help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress in the oral cavity, contributing to relief from dry mouth symptoms.
• Salvianolic acid a: This water-soluble polyphenol has antioxidant properties that can help protect the oral mucosa from oxidative damage and promote the healing of dry, irritated tissues.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of salvene, a compound that helps stimulate saliva production.
• Flowers: The flowers are also used due to their content of salvianolic acids, which may contribute to their anti-xerostomia (dry mouth) properties.
• Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis contain a significant amount of essential oils, including thujone, which may help in alleviating dry mouth symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the fresh leaves of salvia officinalis in the morning after the dew has dried for optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a warm oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours or until crisp.
3. Combine 1 part dried leaves with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar for infusion.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with dry mouth is a blend of slippery elm, aloe vera, and licorice root.

Slippery elm helps soothe and protect the mucous membranes, while aloe vera provides anti-inflammatory properties to reduce irritation. Licorice root adds a natural expectorant to help loosen and clear mucus, promoting saliva production and hydration.

This synergistic blend can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms and promote overall oral health.

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

Ailments similar to dry mouth that are treated with herbal tinctures are digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Herbal remedies like slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root help soothe the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of dryness and discomfort.

Other conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, and stress-related disorders, can also be treated with herbal tinctures that promote relaxation and reduce inflammation.