Natural Ayurvedic Treatment for Sialadenitis and Sialadenosis – Causes, Symptoms & Herbal Remedies

Abstract

Saliva is a vital bodily fluid made by the major salivary glands, i.e., the parotid gland, the submandibular gland, the sublingual gland, and the minor salivary glands situated on the lips, cheeks, tongue, nose, sinuses, and larynx. Saliva helps in various functions like speech, digestion, protects the gums and enamel, strengthens the tooth enamel, washes away the debris, helps in speech, and enhances the taste. In this article, we will be reading about one of the common salivary gland diseases, which are sialadenosis and sialadenitis.

Introduction

Sialadenitis and Sialadenosis are the major salivary gland diseases of the submandibular gland, sublingual gland, and parotid gland. First of all, we will discuss sialadenitis. Sialadenitis is the inflammation of the salivary glands, typically caused by an infection, blockage, or other factors that affect the salivary glands. The salivary glands are responsible for producing saliva, and there are three main pairs: the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands.

Types of Sialadenitis

1. Acute Sialadenitis

Acute sialadenitis is a sudden and painful inflammation of a salivary gland, most commonly affecting the parotid or submandibular glands. This condition is often caused by an infection, which can be either bacterial or viral. Acute sialadenitis is caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

2. Chronic Sialadenitis

Chronic sialadenitis is a long-lasting inflammation of the salivary glands that occurs over time, often with recurring symptoms. Unlike acute sialadenitis, which develops suddenly and is typically linked to infection, chronic sialadenitis develops slowly and can result from a variety of underlying causes. It can affect one or more of the salivary glands, especially the parotid and submandibular glands. It is often caused by an obstruction, such as salivary stones or strictures.

Causes

1. Bacterial Infection

This can occur if the salivary ducts become blocked by a stone or thickened saliva, causing bacteria to grow in the gland.

2. Viral Infection

Mumps can cause swelling and discomfort in the glands.

3. Dehydration

Dehydration can cause reduced saliva flow, making the glands more susceptible to infection.

4. Obstruction

Salivary stones or other blockages can prevent the normal flow of saliva, leading to gland inflammation.

Symptoms

1. Patients have swelling, pain, and tenderness in the affected gland, often on the cheek or under the jaw.

2. Pain that worsens when eating or thinking about food (since this stimulates saliva production).

3. If the infection is severe, then there can be fever and chills.

4. The patient might experience a bad taste.

5. Dryness in the mouth.

Treatment of Sialadenitis

1. If a bacterial infection is diagnosed, antibiotics will be prescribed. This is often the first line of treatment for acute sialadenitis.

2. Increased fluid intake can help encourage saliva flow, which may relieve symptoms.

3. Gently massaging the gland can help promote drainage if there’s no stone or significant obstruction.

4. If there is a salivary stone blocking the duct, it may need to be removed surgically or through a non-invasive procedure.

What is Sialadenosis?

Sialadenosis is a non-inflammatory, non-infectious condition characterized by the swelling of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands, without the presence of infection or obstruction. Unlike sialadenitis, which involves inflammation due to infection or blockages, sialadenosis involves abnormal enlargement of the glands due to other factors.

Types of Sialadenosis

1. Metabolic Sialadenosis

Associated with systemic conditions like diabetes mellitus, alcoholism, liver disease (especially cirrhosis), and malnutrition.

2. Hormonal Sialadenosis

Linked to hormonal imbalances such as those seen in hypothyroidism, pregnancy, or menopause.

3. Drug-Induced Sialadenosis

Caused by medications like antihypertensives, antiepileptics, or psychotropic drugs that affect autonomic innervation.

Causes

1. Chronic Alcoholism

One of the most common causes of sialadenosis, often resulting from changes in the autonomic nervous system and altered saliva production.

2. Endocrine Disorders

Conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, or hyperthyroidism can cause changes in the salivary glands.

3. Autoimmune Disorders

Conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome can affect the salivary glands, though this typically presents with inflammation and dryness.

4. Medications

Certain medications like anticholinergics, antidepressants, or antipsychotics can cause dry mouth (xerostomia) and lead to compensatory enlargement of the salivary glands.

5. Genetic Factors

Some inherited conditions can cause sialadenosis, such as certain types of metabolic disorders (e.g., Wilson’s disease, where copper accumulates in the body).

6. Neurogenic Cases

Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction Disorders affecting the autonomic nervous system can lead to abnormal salivation and gland enlargement.

7. Stress or Anxiety

In some cases, chronic stress or anxiety can lead to dysfunction in the salivary glands, resulting in their enlargement.

Symptoms

1. The most prominent symptom is bilateral, non-tender swelling of the salivary glands, especially the parotid glands, and no pain.

2. Dry mouth (Xerostomia) can make it difficult to speak or swallow, and may also cause a sticky feeling in the mouth.

3. The patient might experience a bad taste in the mouth due to reduced saliva flow.

4. Dry mouth and difficulty in swallowing lead to the sensation of increased thirst.

5. Due to a lack of sufficient saliva, swallowing food or liquids can become more challenging.

Treatment of Sialadenosis

1. Sialadenosis can be treated by addressing the underlying causes.

2. Increased fluid intake can help encourage saliva flow, which may relieve symptoms.

3. In case of infections, surgery can be done to drain abscesses and remove the stone and blockages.

4. If a bacterial infection is diagnosed, antibiotics will be prescribed.

Complications of Sialadenosis and Sialadenitis

1. In severe cases, there can be the formation of an abscess.

2. Cellulitis is also one of the complications where the swelling spreads to the fascial planes of the neck.

3. Facial nerve damage is also one of the complications during the time of the surgery.

4. Ludwig’s angina, where the swelling develops in the floor of the mouth, causing a life-threatening condition.

Home Remedies for Sialadenosis and Sialadenitis

1. Hydration

Water has health benefits. Drinking water only hydrates oral tissues, but also lips, throat, and gums.

2. Lemon

Lemon has citric acid in it, which helps in the production of saliva by the salivary glands. This can provide relief from the discomfort of dry mouth. Here are some ways to use lemon for dry mouth. You can cut the lemon into two halves and suck it 1-3 times a day or drink the lemon tea or lemon water. Don’t use lemon in excess, as it has citric acid and can erode the tooth.

3. Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds have metabolites and flavonoids that stimulate saliva production and control bad breath. You can chew the fennel seeds after a meal.

4. Aloe Vera

It is rich in antioxidants and a natural hydrating substance. It not only works on the dry mouth but also protects the tissue of the mouth. The patient can drink a quarter cup of half aloe vera juice once every day. Do not swallow the pulp just rinse it after keeping it in the mouth for a few minutes.

5. Cardamom

It should be eaten after meals or at other times. It not only keeps away bad breath but also helps in saliva production. Another thing is that you can also drink cardamom tea or cardamom-infused water, which has the properties to stimulate saliva production. This can provide relief from the discomfort of dry mouth.

6. Ginger

Ginger is a natural sialagogue; it can stimulate the salivary gland to produce more saliva. Some ways to use ginger for a dry mouth like chewing on raw ginger, ginger tea, and ginger spray. It shouldn’t be used in excess as it produces heat in the body.

Herbal Remedies for Sialadenitis and Sialadenosis by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP, HACCP, HALAL, and ISO certified company known for producing 100% natural, chemical-free Ayurvedic formulations. All products are developed under the expert supervision of MD Ayurveda practitioners, ensuring authenticity and safety. Free from synthetic additives and preservatives, their formulations are designed to support the management of a wide range of health conditions in both humans and pets, without causing side effects.

1. Gum Care Powder

This powder contains natural herbs like Sonthi (Zingiber Officinale), Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula), Mustak (Cyprus rotundus), Pong (Areca Catechu), and many other herbs. It helps reduce oral inflammation, promotes salivary flow, maintains hygiene, and supports the healing of affected tissues. Regular use can aid in relieving discomfort and preventing secondary infections in the oral cavity.

Method of Application: This powder is gently massaged on teeth and gums with 3-6 grams. Rinse your mouth with lukewarm water after 2-3 minutes.

2. Curcumin Capsules

Curcumin capsules are formulated to deliver the active compounds found in turmeric (Curcuma longa). It helps reduce inflammation in the salivary glands, making it particularly useful in where pain and swelling are prominent. It promotes tissue repair and regeneration, which can speed up recovery in both conditions.

Dosage: Take 1-2 capsules twice daily with plain water after a meal.

3. Kaishore Guggul

This tablet contains many herbs like Amalki (Emblica Officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia Bellirica), Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula), Guggal (Commiphora Mukul), Ginger (Zingiber Officinale), Long Pepper (Piper Longum), Black Pepper (Piper Nigrum), and so on. It supports healthy tissue function, improves circulation, and helps correct metabolic imbalances that may contribute to glandular enlargement.

Dosage: Take 1-2 Tablets twice daily with lukewarm water.

4. Septrin Tablets

Septrin tablets are made up of herbs like Guggal (Commiphora Mukul), Haldi (Curcuma Longa), Tulsi (Ocimum Sanctum), and Sonth (Zingiber Officinale). They help reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling by eliminating the underlying infection in the salivary glands.

Dosage: Take 1-2 tablets twice a day, after meals.

5. Digestion Support Capsules

These capsules are made up of many herbs like Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula), Amla (Emblica Officinalis), Bahera (Terminalia Bellerica), Sounf (Foeniculum Vulgare), Dhania (Coriander Sativum), and so on. It helps to reduce inflammation, detoxify the body, and enhance nutrient absorption as well as improve digestive health, which is closely linked to overall immunity and metabolic balance.

Dosage: Take 1 capsule twice a day with plain water, after meals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sialadenosis and sialadenitis commonly affect the major salivary glands, which are the parotid and submandibular. There are common causes leading to sialadenosis and sialadenitis, like dry mouth, swelling, bad taste, and difficulty in swallowing in severe cases. Treatment of the Sialadenitis and Sialadenosis involves the use of painkillers and surgery. There are home remedies like using aloe vera, lemon, ginger, and cardamom. At Planet Ayurveda, it can be managed by using gum care powder, curcumin capsules, kaishore guggul, and so on. For more details, please visit www.PlanetAyurveda.com.