Introduction
Oral mucositis, also known as stomatitis, is a painful disease of the oral mucosa. It can occur acutely or chronically and is often associated with significant discomfort. With natural remedies and a conscious lifestyle, this disease can be effectively treated and cured. The following text describes how oral mucositis develops and how it can be alleviated with natural remedies.
How does oral mucositis develop?
The oral mucosa plays an important protective role against external influences. Oral mucositis develops when this protective barrier is damaged by various factors:
- Mechanical irritation, e.g. from braces, ill-fitting dentures or hard food.
- Infections, especially those caused by herpes viruses, bacteria such as streptococci or fungi (e.g. Candida albicans).
- Nutrient deficiency, especially vitamin B12, iron or zinc deficiency.
- Allergic reactions to toothpaste, mouthwash or certain food additives.
- Stress and weakened immune system, which affect the regeneration of the mucous membrane.
These causes can lead to irritation of the mucous membrane, which manifests itself in the form of redness, swelling, pain and sometimes also blisters or ulcers. Sufferers often complain of a burning or stinging sensation that makes eating and speaking difficult.
Natural remedies for oral mucositis
Oral mucositis can often be treated effectively with natural remedies that promote healing and relieve symptoms. Here are some effective approaches:
1. Sage:
Sage has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. An oral rinse with sage tea relieves the inflammation and promotes the regeneration of the mucous membrane. To do this, 2 teaspoons of dried sage are poured with hot water, allowed to steep for 10 minutes and then cooled.
2. Camomile:
Camomile has a soothing and wound-healing effect. Camomile tea can be used as a mouthwash to sooth irritated areas. Alternatively, camomile extract can be applied directly to the inflamed area using a cotton bud.
3. Honey:
Honey is known for its antibacterial and moisturizing properties. Applying honey directly to the affected areas protects against germs and supports wound healing.
4. Aloe Vera:
The gel of the aloe vera plant soothes the inflamed mucous membrane and promotes tissue regeneration. It can be applied directly to the affected areas several times a day.
5. Coconut oil:
coconut oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Oil pulling with coconut oil is a traditional method to improve oral health and speed healing.
Nutrition for oral mucositis
The right nutrition is a crucial factor in healing oral mucositis. It strengthens the immune system and provides the nutrients necessary for regeneration.
1. Vitamin C:
Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and promotes wound healing. Good sources include citrus fruits, kiwis and berries. In addition, acerola cherry powder can be used as a natural vitamin C supplement.
2. Zinc:
Zinc is important for tissue regeneration and fighting infections. It is found in foods such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds or as a dietary supplement.
3. Probiotics:
A balanced intestinal flora supports oral health. Probiotic yoghurt products or special preparations with live cultures can help strengthen the immune system.
These essential fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect and promote wound healing. They are found in linseed oil, chia seeds and oily fish.
5. Turmeric:
Turmeric contains the active ingredient curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. A paste made from turmeric and water can be applied directly to the affected area.
Medicinal plants and complementary measures
Medicinal plants and other natural approaches offer an additional way to promote healing in oral mucositis.
1. The marigold:
Calendula tea or extract has regenerative properties. Rinses or compresses with calendula have an anti-inflammatory and soothing effect.
2. Myrrh:
Myrrh is a tried and tested remedy in naturopathy. It has a disinfecting effect and can be used as a mouthwash or applied directly to the inflamed area.
3. Green tea:
Green tea contains catechins, which are known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Regular rinsing with green tea protects the mucous membranes and promotes healing.
4. Hydration:
Drinking enough fluids helps keep the oral mucosa moist. Water, unsweetened herbal teas or coconut water are ideal.
5. Gentle nutrition:
During the healing phase, spicy, sour and strongly flavored foods should be avoided, as these can worsen the inflammation.
Steps to healing oral mucositis naturally
- Daily rinsing: Use sage or chamomile tea to soothe the inflamed mucous membrane and promote healing.
- Targeted applications: apply honey, aloe vera gel or turmeric paste directly to the affected areas to relieve pain and speed up recovery.
- Nutrition: supplement your diet with vitamin C, zinc and probiotics to strengthen the immune system and support healing.
- Use medicinal plants: Rinses or poultices with calendula or myrrh are particularly effective against inflammation.
- Reduce stress: Stress weakens the immune system and can delay healing. Relaxation techniques such as yoga or breathing exercises can help.
Conclusion
Oral mucositis is unpleasant, but can be treated well with the right natural remedies. Herbal remedies such as sage, chamomile and honey have an anti-inflammatory effect and promote regeneration. In addition, vitamin C, zinc and probiotics strengthen the immune system and accelerate healing.
By combining natural treatments, a balanced diet and targeted measures, it is possible to completely heal oral mucositis and prevent future complaints.
Sources and further information:
1. Sage and chamomile
Sage and chamomile are traditionally used to treat oral mucositis because they have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Source:
2. Honey
Honey has antibacterial and healing properties and has been shown to be helpful for oral mucositis.
Source:
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is used for inflammatory oral mucosa because of its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties.
Source:
https://www.heilmed-krankheit.de/entzuendungen-der-mundschleimhaut–stomatits—-naturheilung.html
4. Coconut oil (oil pulling)
Oil pulling with coconut oil is a traditional method that has antibacterial effects and promotes oral health.
Source:
5. Vitamin C and zinc
Vitamin C and zinc promote immune function and tissue regeneration, which aids in the healing of oral mucositis.
Source:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6837930/
6. Probiotics
Probiotics support the gut flora, which indirectly contributes to overall oral health.
Source:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7170012/
7. Turmeric
Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used topically.
Source:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5664031/
8. Calendula and myrrh
Calendula promotes wound healing, while myrrh has antiseptic properties and can be used topically.
Source:
https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/448273
9. Green tea
Green tea contains catechins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Source:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772035/
10. Hydration and nutrition
Adequate hydration and avoiding irritating foods helps the oral mucosa to heal.
Source:
