What should I do for tongue ulcers caused by “internal heat”?
May 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
In general, tongue ulcers caused by “excess internal heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept) can be treated through measures such as rinsing the mouth with saline solution, maintaining good oral hygiene, adjusting diet, applying topical medications, and taking oral medications—these approaches help alleviate symptoms. Additionally, cultivating healthy lifestyle habits is essential; engaging in appropriate physical activities—such as running, skipping rope, or swimming—can enhance immune function and promote overall health.
Generally, tongue ulcers caused by “excess internal heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept) can be managed through saltwater rinses, maintaining oral hygiene, dietary adjustments, topical medications, and oral medications—all of which help alleviate symptoms. A detailed analysis follows:
1. Saltwater Rinse
Dissolve a small amount of edible salt in warm water and use the solution to rinse your mouth. Each rinse should last for a sufficient duration to ensure thorough contact between the saline solution and the ulcerated area. Saltwater possesses mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in promoting oral tissue healing.
2. Maintaining Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush, applying gentle strokes to avoid irritating the ulcer. Good oral hygiene helps reduce bacterial proliferation and lowers infection risk, thereby shortening the ulcer’s healing time.
3. Dietary Adjustment
Patients should drink ample water daily to maintain oral moisture. They should also consume plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits—such as tomatoes and kiwifruit—to replenish vitamins and minerals. Spicy, greasy, or otherwise irritating foods should be avoided, as they may exacerbate “excess internal heat” symptoms.
4. Topical Medications
For more severe cases, topical medications—including Bingpeng San (Ice-Boron Powder), Guilin Watermelon Frost, and Compound Lidocaine Cream—may be used under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.
5. Oral Medications
For tongue ulcers attributable to “excess internal heat,” oral traditional Chinese patent medicines with heat-clearing and fire-purging properties may be prescribed. For example:
• Niu Huang Shang Qing Wan (Bezoar Upper-Heat-Clearing Pills) and Qing Huo Zhi Mai Pian (Heat-Clearing Gardenia & Wheat Tablets) are suitable for recurrent ulcers caused by excess heat;
• Long Dan Xie Gan Wan (Gentiana Liver-Fire-Dampness-Draining Pills) and Xiao Yao Wan (Free-and-Easy-Wanderer Pills) are indicated for ulcers associated with excessive liver fire;
• Dao Chi Wan (Heart-Fire-Draining Pills) may be used to clear heart-fire and alleviate ulcer symptoms.
In daily life, cultivating healthy habits—including regular physical exercise such as running, skipping rope, or swimming—can enhance immune function and promote overall health.
