Fast Facts about Canker sores
- A canker sore can be defined as a painful ulcer or sore on the mouth or on the insides of it.
- There are three types of canker sores –minor, major and herpetiform. The minor canker sores can take up to 2 weeks to completely heal.
- Most prone to developing canker sores are children and teenagers. A majority of cases diagnosed are in children aged between 10 and 20.
- Canker sores aren’t chronic in nature. They also don’t require surgery or any major lifestyle changes. They usually heal themselves without treatment.
- Since the symptoms are often painful. They can be relieved using multiple herbal remedies and organic tonics.
- Studies show that women are more prone to developing canker sores.
Canker sores or as put in medical terms –aphthous ulcers – occur in the mouth. These are small oval-shaped white or yellow sores that usually develop inside the lining of the mouth or on the inner lip area. They are usually benign, not contagious, but very painful. Canker sores are most common in people between the ages of 10 and 40. Most of its victims are women.
The cause for canker sores is still unknown however many medical researchers believes there are certain conditions and risk factors that increases the chances of one of developing canker sores. The most common risk factor is genetics.
Other risk factors include:
- Stress
- Viral infection
- Food allergy
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Vitamin deficiency
- Weak immune system
There are three types of canker sores:
- Minor Canker Sores: last for a few days and are ½ inch in diameter
- Major Canker Sores: Last for up to six weeks and are ½ inch in diameter as well
- Herpetiform Canker Sores: Heals in a week or two and are 1/8 inch in diameter
Symptoms
Although, canker sores are an impromptu disease and therefore may not have any symptoms, there are some signs which can indicate that canker sores are on the way. These include:
- The presence of a small yellow or white oval-shaped ulcer in the mouth or the inner lip
- Tingling sensation in the mouth
- Redness around the area or in the mouth
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
Recommended Supplements
While eating a healthy diet and regular exercise helps to manage canker sores, it is not enough to keep you fit and healthy. Supplements are essential for managing canker sores and reducing symptoms. But it should be kept in mind that supplements should not be used to replace the treatment for canker sores. It is not always true that natural products are safe for use. Many products can react with your body and produce an adverse reaction. Thus, it is better to be safe and consult your before starting to use any supplements for managing your condition.
The following supplements have proven to benefit people with canker sores:
Red Raspberry
Red raspberry comes packed with essential minerals and vitamins and there is beneficial to improve one’s overall health. It has also proven highly effective in treating cases of canker sores by relieving the pain and burning sensation one experiences. Its intake or application both help alleviate the symptoms of canker sores and cold sores.
Canker Soother w/ Oregano Oil
Canker soother with oregano oil is a blend of different oil suitable to treat inflamed canker sores. The concoction is alcohol free, kosher, gluten-free and vegan. The soother is also mixed in multiple homeopathic remedies. The many oils present in it include tea tree oil, which is responsible for warding off infections, oregano leaf essential oil known for its effective antibacterial properties; coptis root oil which reduces inflammation and clove bud oil which works as a potent analgesic. All of these when combined reduce the inflammation experienced during canker sores.
Echinacea-Goldenseal Veggie Caps
These veggie capsules pack in themselves the power of 7 potent herbs; all aimed to support and strengthen the immune system. This unique formula is also beneficial when taken for canker sores. It provides relief from pain, reduces inflammation and swelling, and speeds up the healing time.
Licorice
Known as a flavoring agent in many food dishes, licorice also possesses many understated medicinal properties. Not many people know that licorice is a great alternative to many gels and creams applied on canker sores. Its application or intake, both alleviates the pain, inflammation, and swelling.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is no less than a miracle concoction. It possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties which makes it fail- safe to be applied on canker sores or all over the face when the skin acts oily.
The above natural supplements are known to help in controlling and managing canker sores, but you should exercise proper caution and ask your doctor before adding any such supplements to your diet. Herbs have lasting and strong effects on the body and can also interact with other drugs and medications, causing dangerous and adverse reactions. If you use any medication for your disease, talk to your doctor before you decide to start any supplements or herbal products to manage your health condition.