Canker Sores

Canker Sores
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Canker Sores - Causes and Natural Solutions

Canker sores are NOT COLD SORES. They are tiny ulcers or lesions in the mucous membrane of the mouth.
They are NOT contagious. They are, however, painful and annoying.


Why do we get Canker Sores?

The most likely causes for canker sores are:

  • Stress
  • Side effects from anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen and beta blockers)
  • Side effects from antihistamines (natural and OTC)
  • Toothpastes with Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) foaming agents
  • Deficiencies in Iron, Folic Acid, or (and this seems the most common) B vitamins especially B-12
  • Digestive disease - H. Pylori, Crohn's disease, Colitis, Celiac

Natural Treatment

  • Tincture of Myrrh - This antiseptic and gum healer is very affordable and very effective. It is also quite effective as a mouthwash concentrate and can be used daily to prevent the eruption of canker sores.
  • Use a toothpaste without SLS (sodium laureth sulfate). Here is a list of our SLS free toothpastes.
  • Supplement with B-12 or a B complex. Vitamin B-12 is often referred to as the "stress vitamin" and has the side benefits of helping to maintain healthy digestion and increase energy.
  • Propolis- A natural antiseptic derived from the "glue" honeybees use to seal their hives. It is a general healer with anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties.
  • Slippery Elm Bark Powder made into a paste and pressed against the area to repair damaged mucosal lining. (DGL tablets may also be used)
  • Probiotics increase the good flora in the body which boosts the immune system against harmful bacteria, leaving one less susceptible to oral lesions and poor digestion

Notice the overlap between remedies for mouth ulcers and gastric issues. (Slippery Elm, DGL, Probiotics, B vitamins, etc.) Perhaps that is a clue that the issues are not unconnected. When approaching your body's health holistically, it's important to remember that digestion begins in the mouth. Breaking down our food mechanically (with our teeth) and mixing it with the enzymes in our saliva is the first step of digestion. Chewing your food thoroughly into a soft paste before swallowing is important for healthy digestion and nutrient absorption.