Canker Sores - Natural Treatment & Healing
Canker Sores, also called aphthous stomatitis, are small ulcers or lesions that appear in the soft tissues of the mouth. These small sores are white, yellow or gray with a red border, and they are usually most common on the inner surface of the cheeks, lips, tongue, soft palate, and the base of the gums. Although they are similar in appearance, canker sores are not the same as cold sores. Canker sores are also not caused by the herpes simplex virus.
Canker sores are, for the most part, harmless and they usually disappear without treatment within a few weeks. However, they can be quite painful and can make it difficult or uncomfortable to eat.
Canker sores are not contagious. They are considered to be caused by a problem with the immune system. A canker sore can also be triggered by things such as stress, emotional issues, fatigue, physical injuries in the mouth, and deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals including B12, folic acid, and iron.
Other factors that can lead to canker sores include hormonal changes such as menstruation and pregnancy.
Canker sores can be prevented by always keeping your mouth clean and fresh by gargling regularly with an anti-bacterial mouth wash or gargling with salt water. You should also brush your teeth and floss several times a day to help reduce the chances of developing an infection.
Adding a supplement of vitamin B12 to your daily routine can also be helpful. And you you should also make sure you are getting enough iron and folic acid in your diet. You could also benefit from herbal supplements that help boost the immune system.
Here are a few of the most popular herbs used in herbal therapies:
Echinacea: This has been claimed to boost the body's immune system to help fight off infections. It has been widely used to treat the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections
Goldenseal: This is typically used as an antibiotic. It is often used in conjunction with Echinacea to ward off the common cold or the flu.
Rose Hips: This is a good source of vitamin C.
Chamomile: This is often used for calming overly stressed nerves, relieving stomach pain, preventing ulcers, and fighting infection.
Garlic: This is known to be a potent natural antibiotic, with natural anti-viral properties. It aids in the reduction of cholesterol and prevents the formation of internal blood clots that trigger heart attacks.
Slippery Elm Bark: This is helpful for soothing sore throats, coughs, and stomach disorders.
Ginseng: This is used to help stimulate the immune system. It aids protecting of the liver from toxic things. And it has widely been used to increase stamina.
Dandelion: This is helpful in relieving premenstrual bloating.
Feverfew: This has been used to aid in the prevention of migraine headaches.
Raspberry Leaf: This is popular in the treatment of morning sickness and uterine infection. It has also been known to aid in the prevention of miscarriage.
Spearmint & Peppermint: These are typically used in the treatment of indigestion.
Comfrey: This is often used in the treatment of cuts or bruises.
Senna: This is a very powerful natural laxative.
Uva Ursi: This is used as a natural diuretic. It is also known for its urinary antiseptic effects.
Ginger: This has been used to help prevent motion sickness. Also used in the prevention of internal blood clots that trigger heart attacks.
Licorice: A digestive aid. Also good for soothing sore throats and treating ulcers.
Remember, before starting any kind of herbal therapy, learn as much as possible about any contraindications, or any allergies that you may have. And you may want to consult with a reputable herbalist to help with your individual needs.
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