Nature's Solution to Canker Sore Problem: Propolis

A canker sore in our mouth is a problem that we all experience from time to time.

So what is aphtha?

They are painful sores that usually occur in our mouths, usually smaller than 1 cm, mostly white or gray in color. Most of them heal on their own in 1-2 weeks, but until they heal, they can prevent us from our social life, perhaps our favorite things to do, such as eating and talking.

So, what situations can cause canker sores in us? How can we avoid this situation or what are the treatment methods that will help us when canker sores occur?

The majority of individuals who have mouth ulcers are generally healthy. They usually regress in 2-3 weeks but recur frequently.

It is thought that the formation of aphthae is mostly caused by the person's immune system, familial predisposition and genetic effects. Blood diseases that cause the immune system to decrease, immune disorder diseases such as Addison's disease, Celiac disease, Crohn's disease, Lupus erythematosus can also cause aphthae in a person. Iron deficiency, folic acid deficiency, B12, zinc, calcium and vitamin C deficiency can also be listed as causes. Premenstrual period in women, hormonal imbalance can also be listed as causes. And of course, smoking...

Mostly food (milk, chocolate, gluten, nuts etc.) and drug allergies, sometimes even toothpastes can cause allergies in a person. It can also be caused by a person experiencing severe stress or depression or a trauma in the mouth. Traumatic processes such as dental procedures, toothbrushing, biting teeth can also be the triggering factor.

However, there does not always need to be a reason. Most of the time we cannot find a reason. The response given by our body's healing capacity is actually the main factor in whether this situation occurs or not. It can usually show itself with recurrences during pregnancy or when smoking is stopped.

Some studies show that folic acid, vitamin B12 and iron deficiency can cause aphtha formation in up to 20% of people. While small aphthae are seen in folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiency, major aphthae can be seen in iron deficiency anemia.

So, is it possible to get through the painful period we experience during the healing process more comfortably when aphthae occur?

Nature offers us all the possibilities in this regard. For example, Propolis…

Propolis contains a mixture of resin obtained from the outside of trees, flower essence, bee saliva, wax and pollen. It has a very pronounced healing effect on fungal infections, bacterial infections and viral wounds in the mouth. You can use the drop form of propolis as a gargle for mouth sores such as gum inflammation and aphtha. You can get the drop form of propolis from pharmacies or herbalists.

You can prepare a mouthwash by dropping 2 or 3 drops of propolis into a glass of water. Use this mouthwash twice a day after brushing your teeth for 1 week. You can observe that your canker sores and gum problems are visibly improving.

Smile to Life…

Dt. Hatice Betül Saylar