There are two kinds of ulcers, internal and external, and these are not at all the same. Treatments for the two kinds of ulcers also differ.

From an herbalist's standpoint, external ulcers are easier to treat, since we can get to them. Also, they are not subjected to some of the very powerful acids that are found in the body. For instance, the stomach produces acids capable of dissolving bone and iron. Ulceration in the stomach must be treated with a mind toward both the ulcer, and the acid as well.

Externally, the first step is to determine the cause of the ulcer. If the cause is a staph infection, the treatment of the ulcer becomes secondary to treating the infection. Staph can spread easily and quickly, and it is very dangerous. However, there are many potential causes; spider bite, snakebite, allergic reaction, secondary infection of cuts or punctures, and many more.

The reason for the importance of knowing the cause is that usually the ulcer will be treated while the root cause is also being addressed. Treatment of the injury itself is usually pretty straightforward. A cleansing salve of lard and demulcent plants is usually very effective. Examples of plants that have good demulcent properties that are well suited for this purpose include great mullein, plantain, burdock, comfrey, aloe, Solomon's seal, chicory, mallow, chickweed, and coltsfoot.

To make the salve, heat lard in a double boiler until just liquid. For every cup of lard, add a cup of the herbs, singly or in combination. Allow to simmer for a half hour, then strain. Allow the mixture to cool until it is again semi-solid before using the salve. The salve should be changed frequently, and the wound should be cleaned well before each treatment.

As an emergency treatment for external ulcers, honey can be applied. Honey contains antibacterial agents.

Stomach and intestinal ulcers are harder to treat. Often milk, especially milk that it high in butter fats such as goat's milk, can be helpful. However many people are lactose intolerant, so giving them milk is just compounding one problem with another.

Internal ulcers form when the mucus lining of the digestive system is eroded in a spot so that very powerful stomach acids can reach the lining of the stomach or intestines. The ulcerations are usually very small, often no larger than the head of a pin, however they are dangerous and generate large amounts of pain.

General treatment involves two steps. First, the acids need to be controlled. Then the ulcer needs to be helped along so it can heal faster. The first can often be accomplished by drinking tea made with regular tea to which a few drops of peppermint extract or anise extract have been added. Honey is used as the sweetener if desired. Both extracts are soothing to the stomach and counteract a lot of the acid, while not doing so to the extent that the digestive system can no longer function. (Antacid tablets neutralize too much of the acid, causing the digestive system to have to work harder. This can slow down healing.)

One of the best treatments for the ulcer itself is capsaicin. This is the active ingredient in hot peppers such as cayenne peppers. It is available in capsule form from health food stores and departments. Once the stomach has been soothed, a capsaicin capsule can be taken to aid in the speed of recovery for the ulcer.

Despite how different internal and external ulcers are, they are both usually fairly easily treatable, as long as we keep in mind that the cause does need to be addressed as well. Using the above information, you may be soon on your way to recovery.

Learn more about this author, Rex Trulove.
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