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Herbs that can be used as a sialagogue

What are sialagogues?

A sialagogue refers to any substance that prompts the salivary glands to increase saliva production. The term stems from the Greek words "sialon," meaning saliva, and "agoguein," meaning to lead or induce. These agents work by stimulating the glands responsible for saliva secretion, aiding in the natural lubrication and moisture of the mouth. 

Sialagogues play a pivotal role in addressing conditions associated with reduced saliva flow, medically termed xerostomia, which can result from various factors including medications, medical treatments, or certain health conditions. These substances encompass a range of natural and synthetic compounds, each with the ability to stimulate the salivary glands differently. Some sialagogues are derived from food items like sour candies or citrus fruits, while others are synthetic drugs developed specifically to encourage saliva production.

What are the benefits of Sialagogues?

The symptoms of allergy depend upon the foreign substance involved, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, animal dander, latex, stings, medication, and certain food. Most of the allergies pose a common set of symptoms, including:

  • Relief from dry mouth
  • Enhanced oral comfort
  • Comfortable denture wear
  • Improved oral health

3 Herbs Recommended for use as a sialagogue

Spilanthes

Spilanthes

Spilanthes, also known as the toothache plant or buzz buttons, is an herb known for its unique properties, one of which includes sialagogue effects. It contains bioactive compounds, particularly spilanthol, which has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes.

Spilanthol present in Spilanthes has been found to have saliva-inducing properties, making it a natural sialagogue. When the herb is chewed or consumed, it can lead to a tingling or numbing sensation in the mouth and has been observed to stimulate saliva production.

Due to this sialagogue effect, Spilanthes has been used in traditional medicine to address conditions such as dry mouth or xerostomia. Use Spilanthes Tincture at least three times daily and get relief from mouth discomfort.

Ginger

Ginger

Ginger has a long history of traditional use in various cultures for its medicinal properties. Among its many health benefits, it's been noted for its ability to encourage saliva production when consumed. Chewing on a small piece of fresh ginger or consuming ginger in various forms like teas, candies, or as a spice in foods, may lead to an increase in saliva flow.

The exact mechanisms behind ginger's sialagogue effects are not fully understood, but some of its bioactive compounds are believed to trigger the salivary glands, prompting an increase in saliva production.

Use Ginger Tincture at least twice daily to support the production of saliva and get relief from dry mouth. 

 

Licorice Root

Licorice Root

Licorice, derived from the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been historically recognized for its medicinal properties. Among its various uses, licorice is believed to have sialagogue properties, meaning it can stimulate saliva production.

The active compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, are thought to contribute to its potential as a sialagogue. When consumed in different forms like teas, lozenges, or extracts, licorice root may stimulate the salivary glands, increasing saliva flow.

However, it's important to note that while licorice has been traditionally used for this purpose, its effectiveness and safety might vary among individuals.

Other Medicinal Plants that act as a sialagogue