Can I eat Houttuynia cordata if I have a mouth ulcer?
Jun 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, patients with oral ulcers can consume Houttuynia cordata, as long as it is done in moderation. Oral ulcers are commonly caused by excessive internal heat, upward inflammation of stomach fire, or fire arising from yin deficiency. They often present as oral mucosal damage, pain, and a burning sensation. Houttuynia cordata is slightly cold in nature and enters the lung and bladder meridians. It has functions of clearing heat, detoxifying, reducing swelling, and relieving pain. It contains ingredients such as quercitrin and volatile oils.
Generally speaking, patients with oral ulcers can consume Houttuynia cordata, as long as the quantity is moderate. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Oral ulcers are commonly caused by excessive internal heat, upward inflammation of stomach fire, or fire due to yin deficiency. Symptoms often include oral mucosal damage, pain, and a burning sensation. Houttuynia cordata is slightly cold in nature and enters the lung and bladder meridians. It has effects of clearing heat, detoxifying, reducing swelling, and relieving pain. Its components, such as quercitrin and volatile oils, can inhibit the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria in the mouth, reduce inflammatory reactions at the ulcer site, and alleviate pain and redness. Moreover, the cold nature of Houttuynia cordata helps clear excessive heat in the upper part of the body, making it especially suitable for oral ulcers caused by stomach fire or lung heat, thereby fundamentally improving the condition of excessive internal heat. In addition, Houttuynia cordata can regulate immune function, promote repair and regeneration of oral mucosal cells, and accelerate ulcer healing.
In daily diet, patients should maintain a light diet, avoid spicy and stimulating foods, drink plenty of water, and consume more vegetables and fruits to maintain nutritional balance and oral health.
