What Is a Canker Sore ? Canker sores (or aphthous stomatitis) are single groups of shallow, painful ulcers found in the mouth or gums. Canker sores are extremely common. For most people, they are an occasional inconvenience, but some people deal with recurrent canker sores. And in these people who suffer from recurrent canker sores may develop canker sores up to four times each year. What Causes a Canker Sore ? A canker sore can be caused by several initiating factors such as trauma from biting your cheek, a toothbrush, or hard, sharp food, as well as food or chemical allergies/sensitivities (e.g., gluten, dairy, sodium lauryl sulfate, etc.), nutrient deficiency, and stress. Is a canker sore the same as a cold sore? Many people confuse canker sores and cold sores, but they are not the same. Cold sores or fever blisters may erupt secondary to infection or activation of the herpes simplex one virus. When the virus infects or re-emerges, painful blisters appear on the outside of the...
Adaptogens: A Balanced Response to Stress
Adaptogenic herbs such as ashwagandha, amla and holy basil are increasing in popularity because of their ability to support the body’s response to a variety of stressors. These centuries-old staples of Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine (which is likely a product of Ayurveda; hence why the two share so many ingredients) help the body literally adapt to physical and emotional stress in order to manage everything from sleep to energy. This means if you’re feeling flustered, they’ll calm you, or if you’re feeling sluggish, they’ll provide pep. They also help to balance and regulate the body’s immune response.
Studies Showing Adaptogens Support Many Other Mind and Body Functions
In addition to their traditional uses, the popularity of adaptogens is partially thanks to the vast amount of recent research showing their effectiveness. In a culture conditioned to pharmaceutical trials and premarket approval, many consumers want to see hard science—and new science—before they’re convinced to try a natural remedy. Current studies indicate that ashwagandha, for example, has antioxidant effects that can support healthy inflammation response, a strong immune system and a clear mind, all while keeping energy steady.
More Than Just Herbs
But in Ayurveda, adaptogens far transcend the benefits of the individual herbs. Adaptogens have long been part of an Ayurvedic practice of Rasayana, or “regenerative therapies,” said to support a long and happy life. While in Western herbalism, adaptogens are just a category of herbs, in Ayurveda, it’s the herbs plus therapies, formulas, topical remedies and detoxification practices that are all aimed at increasing allostasis, which is the “flexibility to the demands of life.”
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