Canker Blisters

Definition

Canker sores are painful ulcers that form on the roof of the mouth, tongue, cheeks, and lips. They can occur singly or in groups, and are more common in women than in men.

Symptoms

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, range from mild to severe. Typically, canker sores continue to reappear, with a number of ulcers appearing every time.

Mild symptoms typically associated with canker sores include, burning, pain and discomfort. Sores are usually less than one centimeter in diameter, and can last anywhere from one to two weeks.

Serious canker sores are more than one centimeter in diameter, and last for several weeks or even many months. Long-term canker sores can also leave scar tissue in the mouth.

Cause

Intestinal flora imbalances attributed to parasites, poor digestive function, food sensitivities, chronic bowel problems, diarrhea, and Crohn`s disease may all cause or exacerbate canker sores. Many naturopathic physicians believe the general cause of canker sores is most likely an allergic reaction to wheat or grains. If canker sores are continual, each of these factors must be screened for and treated before long-term healing can be achieved.

Canker sores may also be attibuted to stress, extreme warmth, physical exertion, severe fatigue, fever, and dental stress. Nutritional deficiencies such as lysine, metal, vitamin B12, and foliate also contribute to canker sores.

Organic Cures

Diet: Eat a diet that includes a variety of grains, beans, seed products, and nuts. Mono-wheat diets contribute to canker sores, and should be avoided. Avoid foods that may irritate ulcers such as coffee, alcoholic beverages, refined sugars, citrus fruit, spicy foods, mouthwashes, and smoking. In cases of severe canker sores, eliminate stomach-acid inducing foods such as animal products, and eat more fresh alkaline-producing foods such as vegetables and fruits.

Canker blisters are often attributed to common food allergies. These allergies include milk, cheese, wheat, tomato, vinegar, lemon, pineapple, and mustard. See a doctor if you consume any of the foods listed above and are experiencing repeat canker sores. The cause of your canker sores must be determined before long-term recovery can be achieved.

Flower Essences: Rescue Remedy® can help alleviate stress that can contribute to canker sores.

Herbs: To relieve symptoms, use a mouthwash made with sage and lavender. Combine equal parts and gargle as frequently as needed. Consume one teaspoon of a mixture of half Echinacea and half cleavers three times daily to speed healing.

Juice Therapy: Consuming juice made from carrots, celery, and cantaloupe will help reduce symptoms as well as speed healing.

Nutritional Supplementation: The following nutrients are known to speed recovery times and reduce the occurrence of canker sores: Vitamin C, amino acid lysine, vitamin B complex, and zinc lozenges. Take acidophilus bacteria to ensure you have an effective supply of wholesome bacteria in the gastrointestinal system.

Topical Treatment: Using a cotton swap, dab every sore with an 8% solution of zinc chloride (available from your pharmacist). As an alternative, you may also use a paste made of Echinacea tincture and myrrh gum.

Alternative Expert Care

If your symptoms persist despite following the steps listed above, seek the assistance of a qualified health professional. The following professional therapies have proven to be useful for healing and reducing the symptoms of canker sores: Detoxification Therapy, Environmental Medicine, Guided Imagery, Magnetic Area Therapy, Naturopathic Medicine, Oxygen Therapy (gargling with peroxide added to water can be very useful) and traditional Chinese Medicine. (See References for descriptions of these optional therapies.)