Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, generally occur inside the mouth, on the gums or inside of the cheeks. They are bacterial infections, but are not contagious. Stress, genetics, trauma, medications, hormones, food allergies or other medical problems can trigger canker sores. Untreated, canker sores last 10 - 14 days.
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are most often found on the lips but sometimes occur on the gums or roof of the mouth. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and are highly contagious. Untreated, cold sores last 7 - 10 days.
Between outbreaks, the HSV-1 virus that causes cold sores retreats to the ganglia (nerves along the spinal cord at the base of the brain). Nobody knows for sure what causes outbreaks, but they appear to be triggered by stress, a weakened immune system, or diet.
Cold sores are treated by supplementing the diet with lysine and immune boosting herbs, such as Echinacea, garlic, licorice, olive leaf, astragalus, or goldenseal. Topical preparations containing lysine, propolis, licorice and zinc oxide are also available.
