Tongue Ulcer Home Remedy - #18062
I have been getting painful tongue ulcers quite frequently. They start as small red or white sores and become painful when eating or drinking. Sometimes, they last for over a week, making it difficult to eat spicy or acidic foods. I don’t understand why I keep getting these tongue ulcers. Could it be because of nutrient deficiencies or digestive issues? I read that low levels of vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid can cause frequent ulcers. Should I get my blood tested for deficiencies? I am looking for effective home remedies for tongue ulcers. I have tried honey, coconut oil, and aloe vera gel, but they only give temporary relief. Are there Ayurvedic herbs or mouth rinses that can help heal the ulcers faster and prevent them from coming back? Also, are there foods I should avoid that might be making the ulcers worse? I have noticed that when I eat spicy, oily, or fried food, the ulcers become more painful. Should I follow a specific diet to prevent ulcers? Doctor, please recommend the best home remedies for tongue ulcers. I want to heal them quickly and also find a way to prevent them permanently. If Ayurveda has any herbal pastes or gargles, please suggest the best ones.
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Doctors’ responses
Frequent tongue ulcers can be caused by a variety of factors, including nutrient deficiencies (like vitamin B12, iron, or folic acid), digestive issues, stress, or an imbalance in Pitta dosha in Ayurveda, which leads to inflammation and heat in the body. To help heal and prevent these ulcers, Ayurveda recommends cooling and soothing remedies such as turmeric (for its anti-inflammatory properties), Amla (rich in vitamin C), Neem (for its antiseptic qualities), and Licorice Root (which soothes inflamed tissue). Additionally, coconut oil and Aloe Vera gel can be applied directly to the sores for relief. It’s also important to avoid spicy, oily, and acidic foods that aggravate Pitta, and instead focus on cooling, gentle foods. Managing stress through yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can also prevent flare-ups.
Namaste, I understand how distressing frequent tongue ulcers can be, especially when they make eating and drinking uncomfortable. In Ayurveda, these ulcers are often linked to Pitta imbalance, as excess heat and acidity in the body can inflame the delicate mucous membranes of the mouth. While deficiencies in Vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid may contribute, underlying digestive issues—such as hyperacidity (Amlapitta) or poor digestion (Agni Mandya)—can also trigger recurrent ulcers. You may consider a blood test to check for deficiencies, but it is equally important to address any digestive imbalances that may be at the root of this problem.
To heal ulcers quickly, Ayurveda recommends natural remedies that cool and soothe Pitta. You can try a paste of Yashtimadhu (Licorice) powder mixed with honey and apply it directly to the sores. Licorice has excellent healing and anti-inflammatory properties. A Triphala or Yashtimadhu mouth rinse (boiling the herbs in water and using the decoction to gargle) can cleanse the mouth and speed up healing. Additionally, sucking on a piece of mulethi (licorice root) or chewing fresh coconut helps coat the ulcers, reducing pain and inflammation. Ghee or coconut oil pulling (Kavala Gandusha) every morning can also strengthen oral tissues and prevent recurrences.
Since you’ve noticed that spicy, fried, and oily foods make the ulcers worse, it’s best to follow a Pitta-pacifying diet. Avoid hot, sour, and excessively salty foods, as they aggravate ulcers. Instead, include cooling foods like coconut water, fresh homemade buttermilk, soaked raisins, and boiled or lightly steamed vegetables. Drinking coriander seed or fennel seed water can also help in reducing internal heat. Aloe vera juice (taken internally) is very effective in cooling Pitta and healing mouth ulcers from within.
For long-term prevention, maintaining good digestion is key. If acidity or indigestion is a frequent issue, taking Avipattikar Churna or a mix of Amla powder and honey can help balance Pitta and prevent excess heat in the system. Also, practicing stress-relieving activities like meditation and deep breathing is important, as stress can trigger ulcers. I recommend making these small but consistent changes to help your ulcers heal naturally and prevent them from coming back. May your health be strong, and your meals enjoyable once again!
Frequent tongue ulcers are often caused by excess Pitta dosha, digestive imbalances, or deficiencies in vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid. Stress, acidity, and consuming spicy, fried, or processed foods can aggravate the condition. Ayurveda recommends Gandusha (oil pulling) with coconut or sesame oil to soothe inflammation. Rinsing with Triphala decoction or a mixture of Yashtimadhu (licorice) and honey helps in faster healing. Applying a paste of fine Yashtimadhu powder with honey directly on the ulcer provides relief. Cooling herbs like Amalaki, Guduchi, and Sita (rock sugar) can be taken to balance Pitta. Including vitamin-rich foods like leafy greens, fresh fruits, and dairy can help prevent recurrence. Drinking coriander seed or fennel tea after meals supports digestion and prevents excessive heat buildup in the body. If ulcers persist, checking for nutritional deficiencies and correcting them through diet and herbal supplements is advisable.
I’m sorry to hear about your recurring tongue ulcers. They can indeed be quite painful and disruptive, and your concern about nutrient deficiencies is valid. Tongue ulcers can result from a range of factors, including digestive issues and deficiencies in nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid. It may be beneficial to get your blood tested for these deficiencies, as correcting them can significantly improve your overall health and potentially reduce ulcer frequency.
To address your current symptoms and prevent future occurrences, here are some personalized Ayurvedic recommendations:
Dietary Adjustments 1. Avoid Irritating Foods: Limit spicy, acidic, and fried foods, as you’ve noticed these exacerbate your ulcers. Also, avoid processed and junk foods. 2. Soothing Foods: Incorporate soft, cool foods such as yogurt, rice, and cooked vegetables. These can help soothe your mouth and improve overall digestion. 3. Hydration: Drink plenty of hydrating fluids, like lukewarm water throughout the day. You can also include herbal teas made with chamomile or peppermint for their soothing properties.
Herbal Remedies 1. Bhringraj (Eclipta alba): Make a paste of Bhringraj leaves with a little coconut oil and apply it to the ulcers twice daily. This herb has anti-inflammatory properties and promotes healing. 2. Turmeric Paste: Mix turmeric powder with honey to create a paste. Applying this gently to the ulcers can help due to turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and healing properties. 3. Licorice Root Gargle: Boil 1 teaspoon of licorice root in 2 cups of water, strain, and use it as a mouth rinse twice daily. It helps soothe ulcers and reduce inflammation.
Gargles - Saltwater Gargle: A simple solution of warm saltwater (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 1 glass of warm water) can be used as a mouth rinse several times a day to help with healing.
Lifestyle Recommendations - Stress Management: Engage in calming practices like yoga or meditation to reduce stress, which can also contribute to ulcers. - Regular Blogging: Maintaining regular, balanced meals can help strengthen your digestive system.
Monitoring Progress Keep track of your diet and symptoms; this can help identify triggers and aid your healthcare provider in finding the underlying causes. If the symptoms persist despite these efforts, please consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider for a more personalized plan.
Implementing these recommendations can help you heal your current ulcers and reduce their recurrence. Take good care!

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