Ayuvedic Treatment for Xerostomia – Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Herbal Supplements

ABSTRACT

XEROSTOMIA is defined as the complaint of dry mouth may or may not accompany an objective sign of hypo salvation (Reduced salivary flow). It is a condition that mostly affects elderly aged 65 or above. This can have a direct impact on the health and quality of life of elderly. Caused by numerous conditions includes side effects of various drugs, diabetics, dehydration, psychological factors, anxiety, stress, and therapeutic radiation of head and neck. The principal cause of Xerostomia includes a variety of systemic disease (endocrine, autoimmune) and local factors. Our main motive is to provide an extensive review of different diagnosis, Pathophysiology, treatment and analysis of Xerostomia.

Introduction

Oral dryness is also called Xerostomia. It is a condition of not having enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. It happens when salivary glands in a mouth resist in making enough saliva to retain the mouth wet. Dry mouth is more prevalent in an aging population. Dry mouth is caused by multiple factors but mainly side effects of medications and head and neck radiation therapy related with Sjogren syndrome characterized by oral and ocular dryness. Dry Mouth is moistly associated with reduced salivary flow or change in composition of saliva. Dry mouth elevates the risk of tooth decay and fungal infection in the mouth because saliva assists unhealthy germs in checks which can further lead to digestive issues.

Causes

• Side effects of medicines – Several medicines can reduce salivary secretion, including those for blood pressure, depression, diuretics, and antihistamines.
• Autoimmune disease – Sjögren’s syndrome causes the immune system to attack and destroy the salivary glands.
• Radiation therapy – The salivary glands may become swollen after exposure during radiation treatment for head and neck cancers. Almost all patients undergoing such therapy develop dry mouth.
• Dehydration – Insufficient body fluids, due to conditions like vomiting, diarrhea, or blood loss, can impair normal bodily functions and contribute to dry mouth.
• Other diseases – Conditions such as HIV, AIDS, Alzheimer’s disease, amyloidosis, and cerebral palsy may also lead to dry mouth.
• Some normal habits – Snoring and sleeping with an open mouth (mouth breathing) can cause dryness in the mouth.

Symptoms

• Bad breath
• Sticky saliva
• Problem while swallowing and chewing
• Problem keeping dentures in position
• Salivary gland infection (Sialadenitis)
• Tongue, lips or cheeks ulcers
• Oral thrush, candidiasis (fungal infection)
• Frequent thirst
• Tingling and burning sensation in mouth
• Dryness in mouth, tongue and cheeks
• Inability to recognize basic tastes in food

Diagnosis

Xerostomia is a common clinical complaint with a variety of causes and complications. It is reported that one in ten dental patients experience dry mouth as regular symptoms.

• A crucial part of assessment is examination of the entire oral cavity.
• Find the root cause of dry mouth by physical examination; look for any signs of a dry and textured tongue and detect abnormalities on internal cheeks or tongue.
• Check production of saliva by pressing the salivary gland.
• Examine any signs of gum disease.
• Particular attention is given to the patient’s past medical history, medication use, or other health conditions like diabetes or stroke.
• Diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome is made from clinical assessments, including salivary gland biopsy.

Treatment

The main purpose of xerostomia management is to improve saliva production, which will further reduce the risk of gum disease.

• For proper hydration, drink plenty of water and sip regularly.
• Avoid consumption of tobacco and alcohol.
• Abstain from having spicy or hard-to-chew foods and drinks.
• Apply petroleum jelly on cracked lips.
• Use sugar-free candies and chewing gums (for saliva secretion).
• Apply saliva substitutes like toothpastes, gel, and mouthwashes.

Ayurveda Overview

Dry mouth can be understood in terms of the balance of body doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Vata doshas are primarily responsible for dryness in the body, and an imbalance in Vata can lead to conditions like dry mouth. Vata doshas manage body moisture, and their disruption can reduce saliva production. Some dietary adjustments can help alleviate dryness caused by Vata imbalance. To boost salivation, add Amla and Triphala to your diet routine. Drinking herbal tea with soothing properties, such as fennel and coriander seeds, can help moisten the mucous membranes.

Herbal Remedies for Xerostomia by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a renowned herbal manufacturing company offering 100% natural, authentic Ayurvedic products. Founded by Dr. Vikram Chauhan, it promotes holistic healing through classical Ayurvedic principles. The company provides herbal supplements, skincare, and wellness solutions, focusing on purity, sustainability, and effectiveness for global health and well-being. They offer the best combination of herbal remedies, and all medications are made naturally without the use of colors, fillers, chemicals, or preservatives.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. ACIDO PLAN SYRUP

This syrup contains standardized extract of Patola (Trichosanthes dioica), Kokum (Garcinia indica), Pittapapada (Fumaria indica), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), and Triphala (Terminalia chebula). It helps to eradicate problems like mouth and cheek ulcers, which are symptoms of xerostomia.

DOSAGE – 1–2 teaspoons twice a day after meals with plain water.

2. NEURO PLAN SYRUP

This syrup is made from ingredients like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Sonth (Zingiber officinale), and Maricha (Piper nigrum). It aids in managing underlying causes of xerostomia such as dehydration, autoimmune diseases, and side effects of medications. It stimulates the remaining salivary glands to produce more natural saliva and supports mouth hydration.

DOSAGE – 1–2 teaspoons twice a day after meals with plain water.

3. GUM CARE POWDER

This powder includes Sonth (Zingiber officinale), Mustak (Cyperus rotundus), Safatika (Alum), and Lavang (Syzygium aromaticum). It has antibacterial properties that reduce the risk of infection in dry mouth. It helps moisturize mucosal surfaces, relieve irritation caused by dryness, and support overall oral health.

USAGE – Massage your gums and teeth gently with 3–6 gm of powder. Rinse the mouth with lukewarm water after 2–3 minutes.

4. CHITRAKADI VATI

These tablets are made from natural herbs like Chitrak Mool Chhal (Plumbago zeylanica), Pipla Mool (Piper longum), Hing (Asafoetida), Ajmod (Trachyspermum ammi), Kali Marich (Piper nigrum), and Sonth (Zingiber officinale). Chitrakadi Vati restores digestive enzyme production, improves food absorption, and soothes stomach acidity. It enhances salivation by stimulating digestive fire (Agni) and promotes the body’s natural fluids to help alleviate dry mouth.

DOSAGE – 1–2 tablets twice a day after a meal with warm water.

CONCLUSION

Xerostomia is a common problem among adults and mostly present in patients treated with certain medications caused by various factors including, medical treatment like radiation therapy, dehydration, and smoking. Symptoms of Xerostomia can range from mild discomfort, unable to wear dentures, to difficulty in speaking and swallowing and tasting. Dry mouth increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to insufficiency of saliva protection and cleaning function. Successful treatments require correct diagnosis, focusing on the underlying cause, managing symptoms and improving saliva production. Include maintaining good oral hygiene, using saliva substitutes (gel, mouthwash) and staying hydrated that stimulate saliva flow. Remedies for patients in Xerostomia mainly are relief of symptoms and prevention of oral complications. Herbal medicine like Chitrakadi vati, Neuro plan syrup and Acido plan Syrup helps simulate remaining salivary glands to produce more saliva. Provide better lubrication for the mouth which helps in speaking and eating. Through proper evaluation and management doctors can prevent further complications of Xerostomia and enhance patient well being.