Treatment for ulcers

Go to your doctor if...

• Your symptoms are getting worse after 10-14 days of treatment (peptic ulcer).
• You have an unexplained weight loss.
• New belly pain or one that does not go away.
• Frequent feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness.
• You have an external ulcer (mouth, leg, foot, corneal, decubitus, or other type of skin ulcer). You can see it from the pictures below.

                     

Decubitus ulcer by stages:

Stage 1:                         Stage 2:                             Stage 3:                             Stage 4:

                                            

Depending on the size, depth, stage, or condition of your decubitus ulcer (e.g presence of infection, foul odor, or bleeding), your doctor may refer you to a wound care team of doctors, nurses, and specialists experienced in treating this type of sores.


Call 911 or another emergency number, based on the country you live in, if you have:

• Symptoms of shock or heart attack (chest discomfort, sweating, nausea, shortness of breath, light headedness).
• Severe vomitting or sharp pain in the belly.

If you drink alcohol in high doses, it can worsen the symptoms of your peptic ulcer because it irritates the stomach lining.

Avoid drinking alcohol whenever possible in order to avoid peptic ulcer.

If you are a smoker, nicotine in your cigarettes causes more acid to be produced by the stomach thus increasing risk of getting peptic ulcer.

Also, if you have an external ulcer, you are more likely to have slower healing rate due to the reduced blood supply to the skin, so stop smoking during that time.

If you regularly use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, indomethacin, you are at increased risk of getting peptic ulcer because they block the Cox-1 enzyme which is responsible for production of prostaglandins - chemicals that protect the stomach lining.

Stop using these medications if you want to heal faster and prevent from ulcers in future.

Flavonoids can be effective in treating all type of ulcers by defending the lining of the stomach which makes ulcers to heal faster. They occur naturally in many fruits and vegetables such as: red grapes, kale, legumes, soybeans, broccoli, apples, berries, and teas (green tea especially).

But, be careful with some foods and drinks containing flavonoids such as red wines and citrus fruits which can irritate ulcers.

If your peptic ulcer is caused by Helicobacter Pylori, then take Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice which may inhibit its growth. It comes in form of tablets. 

Chew 2 tablets 20 minutes before each meal.

Click here to buy it.

Probiotics may be an effective treatment of peptic ulcers caused by Helicobacter Pylori. They are helpful for your digestive system as they keep it moving, and also increasing your chances to recover from any peptic ulcer you may have.

You can take it either as a supplement (click here to buy it) or by eating fermented foods such as: yoghurt, buttermilk, miso, kimchi.

If your stomach ulcer is caused by Helicobacter Pylori, taking honey will inhibit its growth. It has antibacterial properties and it's full of antioxidants and polyphenols.

Also, it's useful for any other type of ulcer. Consult with your doctor if you have high blood sugar levels.

Although drinking milk may give you ease of pain caused from peptic ulcer, in a long run things are getting worse because it makes your stomach produce more acid which damages the lining of the stomach. 

Avoid drinking or consuming milk and milk products during your treatment.

Drinking carbonated beverages will increase the acid production and make your stomach upset or bloated thus worsening the symptoms.

Avoid drinking carbonated beverages while treating peptic ulcers.

Drinking coffee will stimulate the acid production in your stomach which causes indigestion. Avoid drinking coffee whenever possible, especially if you have esophageal ulcer because even a small amount of excess acid can give you pain.

Hot sauce, hot peppers, and chilies can increase stomach acid production thus worsening the symptoms of your peptic ulcer.

Avoid spicy and acidic foods whenever possible.

Processed foods can upset the bacterial balance in your stomach and intestine thus worsening the symptoms of your ulcer.

Foods like bread, cheese, tinned vegetables, crisps, microwave meals, fried foods, meat products should be strictly avoided while treating peptic ulcer.

If your peptic ulcer is caused by Helicobacter Pylori, then garlic extract will inhibit its growth.

Read here on how to make your own garlic extract, or click here if you prefer it as supplement. 

If you use some blood thinner drug, consult with your doctor before taking garlic as it has the same effect like the drug you take.

Cranberry may help in fighting against Helicobacter Pylori if it is the reason why you have a peptic ulcer.

You can eat cranberries, make juice from them, or take them as a supplement (click here to buy). Avoid drinking cranberry juices as they are highly sweetened.

Taking mastic either by chewing or as supplement will help you fighting against Helicobacter Pylori which causes peptic ulcers.
 
Click here to buy the supplement.

If you want to heal faster and successfully, then learn how to deal with stress which is essential for your treatment. 

Start with deep breathing, guided imagery (evoking positive imaginary scenarios by using words and music), and some exercises you prefer in order to achieve this.

Or you can watch this video on how to relieve stress:

Eating cabbage will help you to produce more amino acid that is stimulating the blood flow to the stomach lining which is beneficial in ulcer treatment.

Also, cabbage has a vitamin C in higher doses which helps fighting against Helicobacter Pylori.

By eating a banana you will inhibit the growth of Helicobacter Pylori because of its antibacterial properties. Also it strengthens the stomach lining and reduces inflammation.

For an effective treatment, eat 2 bananas a day.

Cayenne pepper has a compound called capsaicin which inhibits the secretion of stomach acids and stimulates gastric mucosal blood flow which heals and prevents ulcers.

How to prepare cayenne pepper:

1. In a glass of warm water, mix 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
2. In the first 2-3 days, drink it twice a day.
3. After it, increase the amount of pepper to 1/4 teaspoon and drink it also twice a day.

You can buy cayenne pepper here.

Coconut has antibacterial properties which kills the bacteria responsible for ulcer.

Drink coconut water or fresh coconut milk daily. Also, you can take one tablespoon of coconut oil in the morning and at night for one week.

Click here to buy it.

Licorice produces more protective mucus that keeps the stomach lining healthy. Taking licorice will speed up the healing process and give you ease of pain. You can take licorice in one of the following ways:

1. Drink licorice tea 2-3 times a day for 1 week.
2. Chew, then swallow 2-3 deglycyrrhizinated licorice tablets 3 times a day for one week. Click here to buy it.
3. In a cup of water, mix 1/2 tablespoon of licorice root powder, cover it and leave it overnight. When you wake up in the morning, add one cup of cooked broken white rice in the cup, and then eat it. Do this every day for one week.

Fenugreek has a compound called mucilaginous that protects the stomach lining thus speeding up the healing process. Take it in one of the following ways:

1. In two cups of water, boil one tablespoon of fenugreek seeds, pour and drink it by adding a little honey.
2. Boil one cup of fenugreek seeds, then add a little honey and you can consume it twice a day.

Leaves of wood apple are very helpful in the treatment of peptic ulcer because of the compound called tannin which protects the stomach against damage caused by too much acid production.

1. Drink extracted juice from wood apple fruit to reduce pain and inflammation.
2. In a copper vessel (or if you don't have, use a glass of water), put a cup of water and steep 2-3 leaves of wood apple and leave it overnight. When you wake up in the morning, drink it on an empty stomach by straining the mixture. Do this daily for 2-3 weeks.

Slippery Elm can give you ease of pain and inflammation caused by peptic ulcer because of the compound called mucilage. Also, mucilage will remove excess fats in the intestines.

1. Grind the inner bark of the slippery elm into a powder.
2. In a cup of warm water, mix one teaspoon of the powder.
3. Drink it 3 times a day for one week.

One of the most common causes of Esophageal ulcer is Acid Reflux / GERD. Check out the solutions for this problem here.

Do not eat spicy food during and after your treatment because it can irritate your ulcer (both mouth and peptic) and give you more pain.

If you want to speed up the healing process, drink plenty of fluids every day. Water is the most important one and you should drink 1.5 - 2 litres a day (8 glasses).

Anti-inflammatory properties of peppermint and eucalyptus essential oil and their anti-microbial agents help tightening the tissue around the wound, and can give you ease of discomfort caused by a potential fluid buildup or swelling. Their cooling properties can numb the nerve endings that are firing off.

To make this numbing spray, you will need:

• 2 tablespoons (14.7 ml / 0.5 oz) of grapeseed or olive oil
• 10 drops of peppermint essential oil
• 8 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
• A glass mister bottle

Directions:

Into a glass mist bottle, pour the grapeseed or olive oil, then add the essential oils. Cap, shake well, and spray some directly onto the ulcer as needed for pain relief. Shake before each use.

Licorice root relieves inflammation and forms a protective coating on the mucus membrane that resists irritation and soothes open lesions.

Preparation:

1. In two cups of water, soak one tablespoon of crushed licorice root and leave it for 2-3 hours.
2. Use it for mouth rinsing several times a day.

Coconut milk gives you ease of pain caused by mouth ulcer.

1. In one tablespoon of coconut milk, mix a little honey, and massage the affected area with it. Do it 3-4 times a day.
2. Also, you can rinse your mouth with fresh coconut milk or massage the affected area with coconut oil.

Sea salt and Hydrogen Peroxide have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties which will give you ease of pain and will help you to heal faster.

1. Into a glass of warm water, add two teaspoons with sea salt and 3% hydrogen peroxide. 
2. Mix it well and use it for mouth rinsing once or twice a day. Do not swallow it!

Coriander seeds will give you relief and reduce inflammation.

1. In a cup of water, boil one teaspoon of coriander seeds, strain it and allow it to cool.
2. Rinse your mouth with it 3-4 times a day.

Baking soda or Sodium bicarbonate is used in treating mouth ulcers, especially for those caused by acidic foods or drinks because it neutralizes the acid. Also, baking soda reduces inflammation and removes bacteria and germs.

1. Make a thin paste by mixing one teaspoon of baking soda with a little water. Put it on the affected area several times a day.
2. Or you can put baking soda directly on your mouth ulcer.

Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of honey can soothe mouth ulcer as it retains moisture and accelerates the healing process.

Dip a cotton swab in honey and put it on the affected area. Or if you don't have honey, use glycerin or vitamin E oil in the same way. If your mouth ulcer is caused by radiation therapy, use Manuka honey.

By applying aloe vera juice or gel on the affected area, it will give you pain relief, faster healing, and also it has antiseptic, antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.

Celery has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties which will give you relief from mouth ulcer by chewing fresh celery stalk. 

After chewing it, keep the palp on the affected area for around 10 minutes for best results.

Basil leaves provide faster healing for mouth ulcer, and they also have antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

1. Wash 4 or 5 basil leaves.
2. Chew them and drink a little water after it.
3. Do this in the morning and the evening.

Ice can numb the pain caused by mouth ulcer. As soon as you experience symptoms, e.g burning sensation or tingling, apply ice on the affected area before the shallow ulceration appears.

Peptic ulcer: If you want to prevent yourself from peptic ulcers, wash your hands with soap and water regularly. You will reduce the risk of bacterial infections and prevent the spread of bacteria. Also, clean your food properly and cook it thoroughly.

Mouth ulcer: Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled brush after meals. Also, don't forget to floss them every day because it will remove foods which might trigger a sore.

Garlic has an organic compound called allicin which has antiseptic, antibacterial, and antiviral properties which speed up the healing time and give you ease of pain.

Rub the garlic slice from the affected area for 2 minutes. Do it 2-3 times a day. After it, do not eat or drink for 15 minutes.

Healthy digestive system is essential to keep mouth sores away. If you have constipation check the solutions for this problem here.

If your mouth ulcer is caused by acidic foods or drinks, milk of magnesia can be very helpful for your problem because of a substance called antacid which neutralizes the acid.

Apply a bit of it on the sores 2-3 times a day.

Take Vitamin E capsules, cut one of them and thick luqiud will come out. Apply this liquid on the affected area. You can do this 2-3 times a day.

If you have the leftover, you can use this capsule again.

Sage contains compounds that reduce inflammation and also it kills bacteria and viruses. 

In a cup of boiling water, put 2 teaspoons of dried sage and cover it. When it becomes cool, use it as mouth rinse 2-3 times a day.

Moisture provides an environment that feeds the bacteria responsible for skin ulcers thus worsening the symptoms, so keep your skin as dry as possible.

Here are some things you can do:

• Use a paper towel instead of bath towel for your face.
• Use oil-free moisturizers and sunscreen.
• Drink plenty of water (8 glasses a day).
• Avoid carbonated beverages and alcohol consumption.
• Avoid sugar, salt and fried food.

By doing regular foot and ankle exercises you will strengthen your leg muscles and also will improve your blood flow in your legs.

Watch this video on how to do foot and ankle exercises:

Zinc promotes faster healing of the skin, so you need to increase the intake of this mineral.

Peanuts, chicken breast, baked beans, dry roasted cashews, milk and almonds are some of the products that contain zinc.

Although intake of natural zinc is recommended, you can also take is as a supplement. Click here to buy it.

Rhubarb juice is very helpful for your open sore because it improves the blood circulation, relieves pain, and reduces inflammation.

In a shaker or bowl, mix one tablespoon of rhubarb juice with two tablespoons of honey. If the mix you get is too thin, you can use a bit of flour to thicken it up. Apply this mixture to the skin ulcer and cover it with a gauze or a bandage.   

You can buy Rhubarb juice here.

Vitamin C is essential for skin and blood vessels to function properly by shielding skin from damage and it makes the collagen - protein used to make skin, ligaments and blood vessels. Also, it has an anti-inflammatory property.

1. Take 500 mg of vitamin C three times a day.
2. Include foods in your diet that are rich with Vitamin C (peppers, guavas, Kiwifruit, broccoli, berries, citrus fruits and many more).

Clean the wound with mild soap and water every day. It will remove the dead skin tissue and drainage from the affected area.

Marshmallow soothes inflamed and irritated tissues caused by mouth ulcer.

Rinse your mouth for 10 minutes with liquid from a decoction of a handful of dried root in a liter of water.

Butcher's Broom, or Ruscus aculeatus is used for treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, hemorrhoids and constipation because of its anti-inflammatory agents (steroidal saponins ruscogenin, ruscin, neoruscogenin and ruscoside). Also, it increases the circulation in the legs which will help you in overcoming venous insufficiency.

You should take 2 capsules per day. Click here to buy it.

Aesculus hippocastanum, or Horse chestnut is a tree native to Europe and Asia. Its seed, flower, bark, and leaves are used to make medicine for treating venous insufficiency as well as other health conditions.

It has strong anti-inflammatory properties, and it increases the elasticity of veins and reduces their permeability and fragility. Do not use it along with anticoagulants.

Directions:

Shake well before use. Take 20-30 drops, three times a day or as directed by your practitioner. The best way to use liquid herbal glycerites is to put the suggested amount in a glass of water, tea, or juice and drink the entire content. Glycerites can also be administered directly into the mouth without the assistance of water however some glycerites are unpalatable which is why most people prefer to dilute them into a beverage.

Click here to buy it. 

Maritime pine, or Pinus pinaster is a tree native to Mediterranean region. Its extract is used to treat chronic venous insufficiency as well as other health conditions. Its bark is a rich source of procyanidins, phenolic, cinnamic and benzoic acids which are very helpful in reducing symptoms. 

Do not combine it with blood-thinning medicine.

Click here to buy extract of Maritime Pine.

If you have a small lesion or a bubble on your skin, it is probably some blister or pimple / acne. If you aren't sure, consult with your doctor first.

Blister:                                       Pimple:                                                   Acne:

                      


Check out the solutions for Blisters and Pimples / Acne.

Wrap your skin ulcer in a clean bandage, but do not forget to clean it first. It will protect from further infection and injury.

• Do not use a bandage that is smaller than the ulcer. Instead, use a larger one.
• Use gauze, rolled in, or in 2x2 or 4x4 options depending on the size of the ulcer.
• In order to make your ulcer to stay open, use iodine impregnated gauze. You can buy it here.

In order to prevent to prevent skin ulcers, changing your position often will reduce stress on the skin.

• If you use a wheelchair, change your position at least every one hour.
• Use air filled, water filled, or gel cushions to relieve the pressure. Just do not use same cushion all the time.

Talcum powder helps to keep away the moisture as it increases the bedsore and also it can promote an infection. Powders keep the area dry and promote faster healing.

• Wash the body with some disinfectant.
• Make sure your body is dried.
• Apply talcum powder to the affected area.
• Do this procedure twice a day in order to promote faster healing.
  
  

If you cannot find talcum powder, you can use baby powder instead.

Turmeric is rich in antioxidant and also it has anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. 


First, clean the ulcer, then sprink turmeric powder on it. Make sure it is completely covered. Do this 3 times a day.

This home remedy is one of the most effective in treating skin ulcers. Mix same amount of slippery elm and comfrey leaves until you make a paste-like substance.

Apply it directly on the affected area, or put the pasta on a piece of cloth and cover the area overnight.

By using saline water, you will not only reduce the extra liquid, but also clean the area of dead skin cells. You can prepare the saline water yourself at home, by mixing two teaspoons of salt in one glass of water. Boil the water, let it cool down, and then use the liquid to wash out the area. Let it dry naturally and then cover it with a clean cloth or a bandage. You should repeat a couple of times a day for positive results.

Saline water will reduce the extra liquid, and it will also clean the area of dead skin cells. 

• In a glass of water, mix two teaspoons of salt.
• Boil the water.
• Let it cool down then.
• Use the liquid to wash out the affected area.

Wait for affected area to dry naturally, then cover it with a clean bandage or cloth. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day.

Witch hazel, or Hamamelis virginiana is a tree native to North America. Its leaves and bark are used to treat sores and venous insufficiency as well as other health conditions.

Apply distilled witch hazel extract on the affected leg area. Click here to buy it.

Gotu kola, or Centella asiatica is a herb used as a remedy for wounds, venous insufficiency, and skin ulcer. It relieves pain and inflammation, and prevents scars also. Do not use it internally as it may cause upset, drowsiness or nausea.

Apply the leave on the affected leg area. Click here to buy it.

Using a straw will help you to keep liquids away from sore areas in your mouth.

Use it until you get rid of the mouth ulcer.