Mouth ulcers are white, gray, or yellow open sores with an outer ring of red inflammation, and occur when the mucous membrane or skin surface becomes pitted, resulting from an erosion or disintegration of the tissues. They appear on the inside of the lips, cheeks, or floor of the mouth, and may occur as a result of aggressive tooth brushing, ill-fitting dentures, accidentally biting the side of the mouth, or eating very hot food. They can also be triggered by stress or being run down, and can be a feature of Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and celiac disease, or food allergy. Women may be particularly prone to mouth ulcers around menstruation. In children, contact with the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores may manifest itself as mouth ulcers. Mouth ulcers are common, affecting one in five U.S. adults.
Symptoms
• pain and stinging in affected area, particularly when eating acidic or spicy foods
• dry mouth
TREATMENT
Ayurveda
Rub the tongue with a piece of ginger, and chew fresh root ginger to treat fungal infections of the mouth. Aloe vera is useful for mouth ulcers associated with the herpes virus.
Herbalism
Tincture of myrrh can be added to a cup of boiled water and used as a mouth rinse to destroy infection or infestation. Use the tincture neat and apply to sores in the mouth with a cotton bud. Rub a little aloe vera gel into the affected area.
Aromatherapy
Mix a drop of geranium and lavender oil in a cup of boiled water and gargle as required.
Homeopathy
Arsenicum, when ulcers are on the edges of the tongue, with burning pains. Mercurius, for ulcers that erupt on the palate or tongue, and which are yellow and spongy. Kali bich., for ulcers that feel thick and firm, and sting.
Vitamins and Minerals
Take supplements of vitamins A, E, and B2. (Vitamin E oil can be applied directly to the ulcers.)
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