Stomatitis, referred to as Mukha Paaka in Ayurveda, is an inflammatory condition affecting the mucous membranes of the mouth, resulting in painful sores or ulcers. These sores can appear on the inner cheeks, gums, tongue, or lips. Ayurvedic texts attribute this condition primarily to an imbalance in Pitta dosha, which governs heat and inflammation in the body. Excess Pitta can lead to burning sensations, pain, and ulcers in the mouth. Vata and Kapha imbalances can also contribute, especially in cases of dryness or mucus accumulation.

1. Pitta Dosha Aggravation: The main cause of stomatitis is excessive Pitta, often triggered by:

   • Eating spicy, sour, and acidic foods.
   • Excessive consumption of alcohol or tobacco.
   • Exposure to heat or stress.
   • Digestive issues, such as hyperacidity or indigestion.

2. Improper Digestion (Agni): Poor digestion (Mandagni) or indigestion can lead to the formation of toxins (Aama), which aggravate Pitta and result in mouth sores.

3. Vitamin Deficiency: Deficiencies in vitamins, particularly B vitamins, zinc, and iron, can lead to mouth ulcers.

4. Infections: Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections may cause or exacerbate mouth sores.

5. Dryness (Vata Imbalance): A Vata imbalance can cause dryness in the mouth, making it more susceptible to ulcers.

6. Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene or injury from biting the cheeks or tongue can also contribute to the development of sores.

1. Pitta-Pacifying Diet:

   • Avoid hot, spicy, sour, salty, and acidic foods that increase Pitta.
   • Favor cooling foods like cucumbers, melons, coconut water, and leafy greens.
   • Include natural cooling herbs such as coriander, mint, and fennel.
   • Increase intake of ghee (clarified butter), which has soothing and healing properties for mouth sores.

2. Herbal Remedies:

   • Mansapachak khwath
   • Purgative with Sonamukhi + bal haritaki
   • Licorice (Yashtimadhu): A well-known herb for mouth ulcers, licorice has cooling and healing properties and can be used as a gargle to soothe sores.
   • Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry): Rich in Vitamin C, it helps balance Pitta and heal ulcers by boosting immunity.
   • Triphala: A traditional Ayurvedic blend of three fruits (Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki), it supports digestion and detoxification, reducing the root causes of mouth ulcers.
   • Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia): A powerful blood purifier that helps clear excess Pitta and promotes healing of mouth sores.

3. External Applications:

   • Apply Tankan Bhasm to sores
   • Gargle with Triphala water or Licorice water to soothe inflammation and promote healing.
   • Apply Honey mixed with Turmeric to the sores. Honey has antimicrobial and healing properties, while turmeric reduces inflammation.
   • Aloe Vera: Applying aloe vera gel directly to the sores helps cool and soothe them.

4. Panchakarma Therapy:

   • Virechana (purgation therapy) can be beneficial for chronic mouth sores caused by Pitta imbalance. It helps eliminate excess heat from the body.
   • Kavala (oil pulling) with medicated oils like Gandusha or Til Taila (sesame oil) can help cleanse and heal mouth ulcers.

5. Lifestyle Modifications:

   • Practice good oral hygiene by brushing regularly with natural, astringent powders or toothpaste.
   • Avoid excessive heat and stress, as both can aggravate Pitta.
   • Drink plenty of water and fluids to stay hydrated and cool the body.

6. Pranayama (Breathing Exercises):

   • Sheetali Pranayama (Cooling Breath): Helps cool the body and balance Pitta, reducing inflammation and the tendency for mouth sores.
   • Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Helps balance the doshas and calm the mind.

By addressing the root causes of mouth sores through Pitta-balancing herbs, a suitable diet, external applications, and detoxification therapies, Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to healing and preventing stomatitis.