Canker sores are painful ulcers that often appear on the mucus membranes in the mouth during stress, stomach upset, allergies or nutritional deficiencies, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Homeopathic remedies may reduce the pain and help decrease inflammation. Homeopathy works by initiating an individual's reaction to an irritation or stimulus that triggers the body's immune system, allowing it to heal itself.
Borax
Borax is one of the main remedies used for the treatment of recurrent canker sores in both adults and children, says the University of Michigan Health System. Sores, or aphthous ulcers, may appear on the inside of the cheeks, tongue and gums, and may be tender and painful. There may be a great deal of salivation, but the person still feels like she has a dry mouth. Sores may be large and discolored white. Other indications for needing this remedy are that the individual may be extremely sensitive to noise and have a tendency toward motion sickness.
Muriaticum Acidum
Muriaticum acidum is indicated in an acute outbreak of canker sores that are extremely painful and form primarily on the inside of the cheeks, according to Dr. William Boericke in the"Materia Medica and Repertory." There may be groups of sores together in a cluster. Sores are generally vesicular, or like fluid-filled blisters that can cause itching and pain.
Hepar Sulphuris Calcareum
Hepar sulphuris calcareum, or hepar, is indicated for an outbreak of canker sores where there is pus formation and infection ensues, according to the University of Michigan Health System. The "Synoptic Materia Medica" adds that the sores are extremely sensitive and painful to touch. The pain is usually worse from cold drinks or food. Other indications for someone needing hepar are that the person is extremely chilly, oversensitive emotionally and feeling vulnerable.
Mercurius Solubilis
Mercurius solubilis, or mercurius, is indicated in for canker sores where there are bleeding gums, profuse salivation, drooling at night that wets the pillow, and burning painful sores, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Pain is usually aggravated at night time.
Natrum Muriaticum
Natrum muriaticum is usually indicated for canker sores that form on the tongue and gums and appear pearly white. There may be a tingling sensation in the tongue, and the person may also have cold sores on the outside of the lips in the corners of the mouth, says "Materia Medica and Repertory." Other indications for this remedy are dry, chapped lips that may crack, a feeling of dry mouth with intense thirst and a craving for salty foods that aggravate the sores.
Other Considerations
Homeopathic remedies are available over-the-counter in health food stores and online. Ask your homeopathic practitioner for dosing guidelines for your individual condition.
References
- University of Michigan Health System: Canker Sores -- Homeopathic Remedies
- "Materia Medica and Repertory"; William Boericke; 1998
- "Synoptic Materia Medica"; Frans Vermeulen; 1992
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