Canker sores appear as shallow mouth ulcers of different sizes and affects one in five North Americans. They can be caused by food allergies and hormonal changes, and also can cause severe mouth pain. But these bothersome sores may be relieved by licorice root herbal extract.
Genetic predisposition may underlie most cases of recurring canker sores.
Researchers examined the effects of licorice extract applied via an adhesive patch for treatment of canker sores versus no treatment. After seven days of treatment, ulcer size in the group who took the licorice was significantly lower, while ulcer size in the no-treatment group had increased 13%.
Licorice, typically in the form of DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is also widely used as a treatment for gastric ulcers. DGL lozenges are available in health food stores and may be an alternative to adhesive patches.
Among the causes of canker sores, a genetic predisposition might be the biggest cause, says Michael Martin, PhD, lead author of the study. "When both parents have a history of canker sores, the likelihood of their children developing them can be as high as 90%," he says.
The most serious side effect of canker sores is sharp pain in the mouth, which can interfere with an individual’s quality of life. Dr. Martin revealed that "in addition to speeding healing of the canker sores, the [licorice] helped to reduce pain after just three days of treatment."
Eric Shapira, DDS, MAGD, an Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson, adds: "Increasing vitamins and other herbs, such as vitamin C and zinc, can help treat canker sores because they help to regenerate tissue cells."
Source: General Dentistry, Mar/Apr 2008
