Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers are small, white or yellow-white, superficial painful ulcers that involve the inflammation or destruction of the mucous membranes that line the mouth. They usually afflict the mouth, inner cheeks, tongue or lips. Mouth ulcers are usually painful for three to four days and symptoms generally diminish in seven to ten days.

Small painful blisters/ pimples which appear on the tongue can be very uncomfortable as well as painful. Generally these can be attributed to a diet which is too acidic. The mouth is essentially part of the digestive tract and symptoms which arise in the mouth can generally show the health of the entire digestive tract. In Chinese Medicine inflammatory digestive complaints where there is heat and redness are associated with a decrease in liver function and an excess heat condition. Mouth ulcers may cause halitosis (bad breath) and further digestive complications if left unadressed.

OTHER CAUSES OF MOUTH ULCERS

  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (a constituent of toothpaste)
  • Sulfonamides (contained in many pharmaceutical Antibiotics)
  • Allergic reactions (Gluten or Celiac Disease)
  • Acidic diet
  • Candida
  • Excessive stress
  • Poor mouth hygiene
  • B Vitamin deficinency
  • Digestive/ Bowel stagnation
  • High sugar diet
  • Liver heat
  • Low digestive bacteria