If you’ve experienced having a canker sore, you know how frustrating it can be. These pesky little sores can make it difficult to eat, speak, and even smile because of the pain.
While there are several over-the-counter remedies available, some people swear by the use of lysine to help prevent and treat canker sores. But what exactly is it, and how does it work? Does lysine help canker sores?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at lysine and explore whether or not it can really help ease the pain of canker sores. So, grab a cup of tea, and let’s dive in!
What Is Lysine?
Lysine is an essential amino acid that is not produced by the body and must be obtained through diet or supplements. It plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including protein synthesis, tissue repair, and the production of hormones and enzymes.
While lysine is commonly found in foods like meat, fish, and dairy, it can also be taken in supplement form to help prevent and treat a variety of health issues, including canker sores.
Lysine is thought to work by inhibiting the replication of the herpes simplex virus, which can trigger canker sores in some individuals. By limiting the virus’s ability to spread, lysine may help reduce the frequency and severity of canker sores.
Does Lysine Help Canker Sores?
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful ulcers that develop in the mouth, on the inside of the cheeks, lips, tongue, or throat. Over the years, several studies have suggested that lysine may help reduce the frequency and severity of canker sores.
One study published in the Alternative Medicine Review found that taking lysine supplements for six months reduced the number of canker sores in participants. The study involved 25 participants who suffered from frequent mouth sores.
They were given lysine supplements (1,000 mg per day) for six months. At the end of the study, the participants reported a significant reduction in the number of canker sores they experienced.
Another study published in the Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine found that a topical lysine ointment reduced the size and pain of canker sores. The study involved 30 participants who used the lysine ointment for five days.
While these studies suggest that lysine may be beneficial in reducing the frequency and severity of canker sores, more research is needed to confirm these findings. Also, lysine may interact with certain medications, so seek medical advice before taking lysine supplements or using lysine ointments.
Using Lysine as a Treatment for Canker Sores
So, does lysine help canker sores? While it may be a useful supplement to try if you suffer from frequent canker sores, we still recommend talking to your health care provider before beginning any new treatment regimen.
It’s also a good idea to weigh the pros and cons of using lysine against other potential treatment options. This way, you are able to make a well-informed decision that you are sure will benefit you.
Pros:
- May help reduce the frequency and severity of canker sores
- Generally safe and well-tolerated, with few side effects reported
- Relatively easy to obtain, whether through oral supplements, topical ointments, or dietary sources
Cons:
- Research on its effectiveness for canker sores is limited
- More studies are needed to fully understand its benefits
- May interact with certain medications
- May cause mild side effects like stomach cramps or diarrhea
Read also: Can Vaping Cause Canker Sores?
Other Treatments for Canker Sores
Canker sores are painful and annoying and can sometimes last for weeks. While prescription drugs and supplements like lysine may help alleviate the symptoms, there are also several home remedies and over-the-counter medications that can speed up the healing time.
Home Remedies
Home remedies like salt water, honey, and milk of magnesia may help alleviate the symptoms of canker sores and promote faster healing.
Salt Water
Rinsing your mouth with salt water is a classic home remedy for canker sores. Salt has antibacterial properties that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
To use salt water as a home remedy, dissolve one teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water. Swish the salt water around your mouth for 30 seconds to a minute, then spit it out. Repeat this process several times a day, especially after meals.
Honey
Honey is another natural remedy that may help with canker sore pain and healing. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and irritation.
To use honey as a home remedy, apply a small amount directly to the canker sore using a cotton swab. Leave the honey on for a few minutes before rinsing your mouth with warm water. You can repeat this process several times a day.
It is important to note that honey should not be given to infants under one year of age, as it can pose a risk of botulism.
Milk of Magnesia
Milk of magnesia is a liquid antacid that can be used as a home remedy for canker sores. It works by neutralizing the acids in your mouth, which helps reduce pain and promote healing.
To use milk of magnesia as a home remedy, dab a small amount onto the canker sore using a cotton swab. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse your mouth with warm water. You can repeat this process several times a day.
Note that milk of magnesia should not be used if you have kidney disease or if you are taking certain medications. For your safety, talk to your health care provider before using it as a home remedy.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Besides home remedies and supplements like lysine, there are several over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort. Here are two common options:
Antiseptic Mouthwash
Antiseptic mouthwashes are a common over-the-counter medication used to treat canker sores. These mouthwashes contain ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine, which help kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.
To use an antiseptic mouthwash, swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds to a minute, then spit it out. You can use it up to four times a day, especially after meals.
It is worth noting that some antiseptic mouthwashes can cause irritation or burning. As such, we advise that you start with a small amount and gradually increase the frequency of use. Also, keep in mind that you should not swallow the mouthwash, as it can cause stomach upset.
Topical Anesthetics
Topical anesthetics are another over-the-counter medication used to treat canker sores. These ointments contain ingredients like benzocaine or lidocaine, which help numb the area and reduce pain.
To use a topical anesthetic, apply a small amount directly to the canker sore using a cotton swab. You can use it up to four times a day or as directed on the packaging.
Also, some topical anesthetics can cause an allergic reaction or irritate the surrounding tissue, so it’s best to use them sparingly and as directed. What’s more, you should avoid using them on large canker sores or for an extended period of time, as they can delay the healing process.
How To Prevent Future Outbreaks
While there is no surefire way to prevent canker sores, there are some steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of future outbreaks:
- Follow a good oral hygiene: Make sure you brush your teeth two times daily and floss regularly to keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria.
- Avoid trigger foods: Certain foods, such as citrus fruits, spicy or salty foods, and nuts, can trigger mouth sores in some people. Avoiding these foods may help prevent canker sore outbreaks.
- Manage stress: Emotional stress weakens the body’s immune system and can trigger canker sores. Try to manage stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
- Don’t irritate your mouth: Avoid chewing gum, using tobacco products, or biting your lips or cheeks. These can irritate the mouth and increase the likelihood of canker sores.
- Check your diet: Make sure you are getting enough vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, which can help prevent canker sores.
- Treat underlying health conditions: Some underlying health conditions, such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and HIV/AIDS, can increase the risk of canker sores. Treating these conditions may help prevent future outbreaks.
Should You Use Lysine for Canker Sores?
Canker sores can be painful and uncomfortable, but there are several treatment options available. With the right approach, canker sores can be managed effectively. Among the options that many swear by is the use of lysine.
Lysine, an amino acid commonly found in food and dietary supplements, has shown promise in reducing the frequency and severity of canker sores. While it may not work for everyone, it is worth considering as a natural and easily accessible treatment option.
Additionally, home remedies such as salt water, honey, and milk of magnesia, as well as over-the-counter medications like antiseptic mouthwash and topical anesthetics, can provide canker sore relief.