By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Hiccups
Herbal tinctures for hiccups are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, used to calm and soothe hiccup spasms.
These natural remedies help alleviate hiccups by relaxing the diaphragm and reducing irritation in the throat and stomach. Examples of herbal tinctures effective against hiccups include ginger, chamomile, and peppermint.
Drinking a few drops of these tinctures mixed with water or tea can quickly stop hiccups, allowing individuals to breathe easily and resume their daily activities without discomfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for hiccups, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Zingiber officinale
- 3. Piper methysticum
- 4. Foeniculum vulgare
- 5. Melissa officinalis
- 6. Passiflora incarnata
- 7. Cinnamomum verum
- 8. Echinacea angustifolia
- 9. Camellia sinensis
- 10. Matricaria chamomilla
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for hiccups?
- What ailments similar to hiccups are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with hiccups because of its natural relaxant properties, which can soothe the diaphragm and stomach muscles.
The herb's active compound, glycyrrhizin, has been traditionally used to calm spasms and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, making it an effective remedy for hiccup relief.
When taken as a tincture, licorice root extract can quickly ease discomforting hiccups, allowing the body to return to its natural functioning state without interruption.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with hiccups.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with hiccups by relaxing the diaphragm and reducing spasms in the abdominal muscles that may contribute to hiccup episodes.
- Licoricidin: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate irritation or inflammation in the nerves and muscles that control breathing, thus reducing hiccup frequency.
- Licorisen: This isoenzyme inhibitor also known as 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid, may help reduce spasms and inflammation in the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles, leading to a decrease in hiccup episodes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for hiccups.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used to make tinctures for hiccups because they are rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound known for its soothing and anti-spasmodic properties.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for hiccups due to their ability to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation in the throat and digestive tract.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used in tinctures for hiccups because they contain anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic compounds that can help calm the nervous system and stop hiccup spasms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for hiccups.
- Harvest 50g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in the fall season to ensure optimal potency.
- Grind the roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder to enhance extraction.
- Combine the powdered glycyrrhiza glabra with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a glass bottle, discard the solids and store the tincture.
2. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with hiccups because of its natural antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the diaphragm and calm the nerves.
The bioactive compounds present in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to reduce spasms and cramping in the abdominal muscles, helping to alleviate the sudden, involuntary contractions that cause hiccups.
By soothing the digestive system and calming the nervous system, ginger tinctures can quickly bring relief from hiccups, allowing for a return to normal breathing and digestion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with hiccups.
- Gingerols: These compounds may help alleviate hiccup spasms by blocking the acetylcholine receptors, which can contribute to the abnormal muscle contractions that cause hiccups.
- Shogaols: As bioactive compounds similar to gingerols, shogaols may also help reduce hiccup spasms by blocking acetylcholine receptors and inhibiting the abnormal muscle contractions that cause hiccups.
- Zingibain: A proteolytic enzyme found in ginger, zingibain may help relax the diaphragm and other muscles involved in hiccup spasms, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of hiccups.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for hiccups.
- Roots: Although often used interchangeably with rhizomes, roots are sometimes used specifically for their similar medicinal properties, including the ability to reduce inflammation and ease hiccups.
- Barks: Some herbal remedies use the barks of ginger plants, which are said to possess some of the same soothing and anti-inflammatory properties as the rhizomes and roots.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for hiccups.
- Harvest 20-30 roots of the plant with a sharp knife and clean them thoroughly with water.
- Chop the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife and a cutting board.
- Combine the chopped roots with 80-proof vodka in a ratio of 1:2 in a glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
3. Piper methysticum
Kava tinctures helps with hiccups because of its unique ability to relax the diaphragm and reduce muscle spasms.
The active compounds in kava, such as kavalactones, have a calming effect on the nervous system, which helps to soothe the hiccup reflex. By reducing anxiety and tension, kava tinctures can help to calm the diaphragm and stop hiccups in their tracks.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to provide quick relief from hiccups, making it a trusted solution for many people.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum tinctures that help with hiccups.
- Kavalactones: These sesquiterpenes are the primary active compounds in Piper methysticum and have been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which may help to relax the diaphragm and alleviate hiccup spasms.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, potentially contributing to hiccup relief.
- Tirucallane triterpenoids: These compounds have been found to have a sedative effect on the central nervous system, which may help to calm the nervous system and prevent hiccup spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make tinctures for hiccups.
- Roots: They are rich in bioactive compounds that help to relax the diaphragm and stop hiccups.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that can help to soothe the stomach and reduce hiccup episodes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for hiccups.
- Harvest 500g of fresh p methysticum leaves and stems in the early morning when moisture levels are lowest.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at 25 degrees celsius for 2-3 weeks.
- Grind 100g of dried plant material into a fine powder using a high-speed blender or mortar and pestle.
- Mix 1 part of the powdered plant material with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a dark place at room temperature then strain and discard the solids.
4. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel tinctures helps with hiccups because its active compounds, such as anethole and fenchone, have a soothing effect on the digestive system.
When taken orally, these compounds stimulate the diaphragm to contract and relax, thereby helping to eliminate the spasms that cause hiccup episodes. Additionally, fennel tinctures' natural anti-inflammatory properties can also help reduce irritation in the stomach and intestines, which may contribute to hiccups.
By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, herbal fennel tinctures can effectively alleviate hiccup symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with hiccups.
- Anethole: Acts as a relaxant to calm the diaphragm and other muscles involved in hiccup spasms, helping to relieve hiccups.
- Foeniculin: Exhibits anxiolytic and sedative properties, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety that may trigger or exacerbate hiccups.
- Phenolic compounds: Display antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe the digestive system and alleviate irritation that may contribute to hiccups.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for hiccups.
- Seeds: They are used to make tinctures for hiccups due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly anethole, which has been traditionally used to relax the diaphragm and stop hiccup spasms.
- Leaves: Leaves are used to make tinctures for hiccups due to their carminative and antispasmodic properties, which help to calm the digestive system and reduce hiccup contractions.
- Roots: Roots are used to make tinctures for hiccups due to their ability to relax the smooth muscles and reduce spasms, which can contribute to the development of hiccups.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for hiccups.
- Harvest the foeniculum vulgare plants on a dry sunny morning when they are in full bloom.
- Chop the harvested foeniculum vulgare into small pieces using a sharp knife or a herb cutter.
- Combine the chopped foeniculum vulgare with 60% 95 proof vodka in a clean glass jar at a ratio of 1:5.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking to enhance extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm tinctures helps with hiccups because of its natural calming properties.
The herb, native to Europe, has been used for centuries to soothe digestive issues and calm nervous systems. When ingested as a tincture, lemon balm's essential oils work quickly to relax the diaphragm and reduce spasms that cause hiccup contractions. As the body's nervous system calms down, the hiccups naturally subside, allowing for a return to normal breathing patterns.
With its gentle and natural approach, herbal lemon balm tinctures offer an effective remedy for alleviating pesky hiccups.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with hiccups.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antispasmodic properties, which can help relax the diaphragm and stop hiccup spasms.
- Limonene: As a terpene, limonene has anxiolytic and antispasmodic effects, which can help reduce stress and anxiety that may be contributing to hiccups, and also relax the muscles involved in hiccuping.
- Geranial: This citral isomer has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce stress and anxiety that may be triggering hiccups, and also has a sedative effect on the diaphragm to stop hiccup spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for hiccups.
- Leaves: The leaves of Melissa officinalis are commonly used to make tinctures for hiccups because of their calming and anti-spasmodic properties.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to make tinctures for hiccups due to their soothing effects on the nervous system and muscles.
- Roots: The roots are used to make tinctures for hiccups because they contain compounds that can help to relax the diaphragm and stop hiccup spasms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for hiccups.
- Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated to ensure optimal potency.
- Chop 250 grams of melissa officinalis leaves into small pieces and place them in a clean glass jar.
- Combine chopped melissa officinalis with 500 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in the jar and seal it.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow infusion to occur.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and label it.
6. Passiflora incarnata
Maypop tinctures helps with hiccups because they contain compounds that stimulate the nervous system and relax the diaphragm, effectively calming spasms and interruptions to normal breathing.
The gentle, soothing properties of maypop extract can also help ease tension and stress in the abdomen, which are common triggers for hiccup episodes.
By addressing these underlying causes, maypop tinctures provide a natural solution for hiccups that is easy to administer and provides quick relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with hiccups.
- Harmane: Harmane is an alkaloid found in Passiflora incarnata that helps to calm the nervous system and reduce spasmodic contractions, which can contribute to hiccup relief.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Passiflora incarnata, such as vitexin and isovitexin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to reduce irritation in the nerves and muscles, potentially alleviating hiccup episodes.
- Rotundifuran: Rotundifuran, a lignan glycoside, has been identified in Passiflora incarnata and may contribute to its anxiolytic and anti-spasmodic effects, which could help to calm the diaphragm and resolve hiccup spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make tinctures for hiccups.
- Roots: They contain a high concentration of passifloric acid, which is believed to help relax the diaphragm and stop hiccups.
- Leaves: The leaves of Passiflora incarnata are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that have a sedative effect, which can help calm the nervous system and alleviate hiccup spasms.
- Fruits: The fruits of the plant contain passifloric acid, which has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the diaphragm and can help stop hiccups.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for hiccups.
- Harvest passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves at peak potency when in full bloom.
- Dry the passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves completely in a well-ventilated area for 2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part dried passiflora incarnata with 2 parts 80% grain alcohol in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
7. Cinnamomum verum
Ceylon cinnamon tinctures helps with hiccups because of its natural relaxant properties, which help to soothe and calm the diaphragm.
The bioactive compounds present in Ceylon cinnamon, such as cinnamic acid and cinnamaldehyde, work synergistically to reduce muscle spasms and ease breathing. This results in a rapid cessation of hiccups, providing relief from the discomfort and embarrassment that often accompanies this condition.
Regular use of Ceylon cinnamon tincture can also help to prevent recurring hiccup episodes by maintaining a healthy digestive system and promoting overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum tinctures that help with hiccups.
- Cinnamaldehyde: This phenolic compound, present in high amounts in Cinnamomum verum, helps to relax the diaphragm and abdominal muscles, thereby reducing hiccup spasms.
- Caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene terpene has anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant properties, which may help to soothe the irritation in the nerves that can cause hiccups.
- Limonene: This monoterpene terpene has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which may help to reduce the frequency and intensity of hiccup spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make tinctures for hiccups.
- Barks: They contain oils and compounds that help to relax the diaphragm and relieve hiccup spasms.
- Rhyzomes: They have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help to calm the diaphragm and stop hiccup episodes.
- Leaves: They possess compounds that can help to relax the muscles and calm the nervous system, which can contribute to hiccup relief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for hiccups.
- Harvest the required amount of dried cinnamomum verum bark and clean it thoroughly.
- Combine 1 part dried cinnamomum verum bark with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid mixture using a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to a clean glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place indefinitely.
8. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with hiccups because of its natural antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the diaphragm and ease involuntary muscle contractions.
The tincture's soothing effects calm the nervous system, reducing irritability and anxiety that can exacerbate hiccups. Additionally, Kansas coneflower's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce irritation in the throat and esophagus, further alleviating hiccup symptoms.
By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, this herbal remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for soothing hiccups.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with hiccups.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help relax the diaphragm and other muscles involved in breathing, thereby reducing hiccup spasms.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which may help calm the nervous system and reduce hiccup frequency.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including caffeic acid and ferulic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, potentially alleviating hiccup triggers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for hiccups.
- Roots: Echinacea angustifolia roots are used due to their high concentration of phenolic compounds and polysaccharides, which may help soothe and calm the digestive system and potentially alleviate hiccup spasms.
- Leaves: Echinacea angustifolia leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract and potentially stop hiccup spasms.
- Flowers: Echinacea angustifolia flowers are used for their potential anti-spasmodic properties, which may help calm and relax the muscles in the digestive system and prevent hiccup spasms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for hiccups.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall when the plants have completed their growth and dried them for storage.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or root cutter to release their medicinal properties.
- Combine the chopped roots with 80 percent vodka and 20 percent distilled water in a clean glass jar to create the tincture base.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every few days to enhance extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh filter into another clean glass bottle, discarding the solids and storing the tincture in a cool dark place.
9. Camellia sinensis
Tea tinctures helps with hiccups because they contain natural ingredients that stimulate the vagus nerve, which runs from the brain to the abdomen.
The stimulation of this nerve can help to relax the diaphragm and stop the spasms that cause hiccups. Herbal tea tinctures such as ginger, chamomile, and peppermint have been shown to be effective in soothing hiccup episodes and providing quick relief.
By drinking a small amount of the tincture mixed with water or taking it sublingually under the tongue, individuals can experience rapid alleviation from hiccup discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis tinctures that help with hiccups.
- Theaflavins: These polyphenolic compounds, particularly theaflavin-3-gallate, help with hiccups by reducing muscle spasms and inflammation in the diaphragm.
- Catechins: Specifically, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a major catechin in Camellia sinensis, exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate hiccup spasms.
- Tannins: Tannins in Camellia sinensis may help soothe and relax the diaphragm, thereby reducing hiccup spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make tinctures for hiccups.
- Leaves: They are used because of their soothing properties and potential ability to calm the nervous system, which may contribute to hiccup relief.
- Flowers: They are used because they contain compounds that may help to relax the diaphragm and reduce spasms associated with hiccups.
- Stems: They are used because their bioactive compounds may help to regulate the nervous system and reduce irritation that can cause hiccups.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for hiccups.
- Harvest 50g of fresh camellia sinensis leaves at peak potency for best flavor and medicinal properties.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer at 25-30°c for 7-10 days to preserve potency.
- Chop the dried leaves into small pieces using a sharp blade to increase surface area.
- Steep 100g of chopped leaves in 500ml of 45% ethanol at 50-60°c for 14 days.
- Filter the resulting liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle for storage.
10. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with hiccups because of its soothing and calming properties.
The herb contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms. When taken as a tincture, chamomile calms the diaphragm and relieves pressure on the stomach, helping to stop hiccup spasms. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can ease discomfort and irritation in the digestive tract, further contributing to hiccup relief.
By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, chamomile tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for calming hiccups.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with hiccups.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as a muscle relaxant and can help calm the diaphragm, thereby relieving hiccup spasms.
- Luteolin: As a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, luteolin may help reduce irritation and inflammation in the diaphragm and other abdominal muscles that can contribute to hiccups.
- Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help soothe and relax the diaphragm and other muscles involved in hiccup spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for hiccups.
- Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part, as they contain high amounts of apigenin and luteolin, which are known for their calming effects that can help alleviate hiccup spasms.
- Seeds: The seeds are also used in tinctures due to their sedative properties, which can help relax the diaphragm and alleviate hiccup spasms.
- Leaves: The leaves are another part used in tinctures for hiccups, as they contain compounds that can help calm the nervous system and reduce hiccup spasms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for hiccups.
- Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers at the peak of bloom and dry them thoroughly in a dark place.
- Use a clean glass jar and combine 250 grams of dried flowers with 750 milliliters of 80 proof vodka.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the infusion to complete.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
- Label the bottle with the date the tincture was made and store it in a cool dark place.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for hiccups?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with hiccups is Dill (Anethum graveolens) and Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare).
Dill tincture is known for its carminative properties, which help relax the diaphragm and ease spasms. Fennel tincture, rich in anethole, has a soothing effect on the digestive system, reducing irritation and inflammation that may trigger hiccups.
Together, these tinctures can help calm the nervous system and provide quick relief from hiccups.
What ailments similar to hiccups are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to hiccups/tinctures.html">hiccups/tinctures.html">hiccups that are treated with herbal tinctures are various spasmodic conditions such as cramps, tremors, and convulsions.
Tinctures made from herbs like passionflower, valerian root, and kava can help alleviate these symptoms by calming the nervous system and relaxing muscle spasms.
Additionally, tinctures of black haw, wild yam, and cramp bark can also provide relief from menstrual cramps, muscle cramps, and other types of spasmodic discomfort.