Natural Remedies for Oral Lichen Planus

Welcome to the Nutrition Facts Podcast! I’m your host, Dr. Michael Greger. Today, we’ll explore the inflammatory autoimmune condition known as oral lichen planus, a condition that affects the lining of the mouth and can cause discomfort and oral sores.

Understanding Oral Lichen Planus

Oral lichen planus is characterized by lacy white patches, redness, or sores in the mouth. It’s not as rare as one might think, affecting up to 5% of the population, predominantly women. While there’s no cure for this condition, there are symptomatic treatments available, including steroids and immunosuppressants.

Exploring Natural Remedies

Interestingly, there are edible plants that may aid in managing oral lichen planus. One such plant is purslane, a common weed known for its healing properties.

Purslane: A Promising Treatment

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial showed that 83% of participants in the purslane group experienced significant improvement, compared to only 83% in the placebo group who either showed no improvement or worsened. Purslane not only appears effective but also boasts additional benefits such as lowering triglycerides and reducing inflammation.

Considerations and Dosage

However, it’s important to consume purslane in moderation due to its high oxalate content. Consuming up to 1.5 pounds at a time is generally safe, but exceeding this amount could lead to kidney issues.

Other Natural Remedies

Another commonly discussed remedy is aloe vera. Despite its popularity, internal use of aloe vera can lead to serious side effects, including liver inflammation and electrolyte imbalances. Caution is advised when considering aloe vera as a treatment.

Topical Aloe Vera Treatment

Interestingly, research has shown that topical application of aloe vera gel can be effective. In a study involving 54 patients, 81% of those using aloe vera gel reported improvement, compared to just 4% in the placebo group. Furthermore, the gel proved to be more effective than traditional steroid ointments, displaying significant improvement within two weeks.

Conclusion

For those suffering from oral lichen planus, pursuing natural remedies like purslane and topical aloe vera may offer hope as safer alternatives to conventional treatments. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen.

For more information, visit NutritionFacts.org to access podcast episodes and further resources.