Can licorice treat oral ulcers?
Disease description:
I have a very painful mouth ulcer (aphthous ulcer). A colleague gave me licorice tablets, saying they can treat mouth ulcers. Can licorice actually treat oral ulcers?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Licorice root may help alleviate oral ulcers due to its heat-clearing and detoxifying properties; drinking licorice-infused water is recommended for symptom relief. Oral ulcers are commonly caused by excessive internal heat (“fire”) or compromised immune function, and are typically accompanied by redness and swelling. During an ulcer episode, maintain a light, bland diet and avoid spicy, raw, cold, or greasy foods. Additionally, consider taking anti-inflammatory granules and vitamin B₂ tablets orally, as well as spiramycin and astragalus (Huang Qi) granules.
